GM to Integrate Gemini AI Assistant into Cars by 2026
General Motors to Integrate Google Gemini AI into Vehicles
Starting next year, General Motors will incorporate a conversational AI assistant powered by Google Gemini into its range of cars, trucks, and SUVs. This announcement was made during an event held in New York City on Wednesday.
GM Forward Event and Future Tech
The rollout of Google Gemini represents one of several technology-focused announcements originating from GM’s GM Forward event. It is poised to be among the first of these innovations to reach consumers.
Further advancements, including a complete overhaul of the vehicle’s electrical architecture and computing platform, alongside an automated driving system allowing hands- and eyes-off operation, are scheduled for implementation across GM brands by 2028.
The Rise of Generative AI in Automotive
GM joins a growing number of automakers embracing generative AI-based assistants. These systems aim to provide a more natural and intuitive response to driver requests.
Stellantis is collaborating with Mistral, a French AI company, while Mercedes is integrating ChatGPT. Tesla has also introduced xAI’s Grok into its vehicles.
Building on Existing Google Integration
This integration with Gemini is a natural progression for GM. Vehicles from Buick, Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC already feature “Google built-in.”
This operating system provides drivers with direct access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and a variety of other applications via the car’s infotainment system.
In 2023, Google Cloud’s Dialogflow chatbot began handling non-emergency OnStar features, such as routing and navigation assistance.
Enhanced Capabilities with Gemini
According to Dave Richardson, Senior Vice President of Software and Services, GM’s Gemini-powered AI assistant will offer comparable functionality, but with improved performance.
“Current voice assistants often present challenges due to their reliance on specific code words or difficulty understanding varied accents,” Richardson explained to TechCrunch. “Large language models overcome these limitations.”
“They maintain context from previous interactions and demonstrate flexibility in interpreting speech, resulting in a more refined and natural user experience.”
Improved User Experience
This advancement promises to streamline tasks such as composing and sending messages, planning routes with multiple stops – including charging stations or preferred locations – and preparing for meetings while on the move.
The assistant will also leverage web access to answer informational queries, for example, “What is the history of the bridge I am currently crossing?”
Availability and Implementation
The Gemini assistant will be deployed as an over-the-air update via the Play Store to OnStar-equipped vehicles, dating back to model year 2015 and newer.
A Step Towards Custom AI Development
GM’s new voice assistant represents a step towards the automaker’s objective of developing a bespoke AI system. This system will connect to vehicle systems through OnStar, GM’s in-car concierge service.
Executives at the NYC event described the technology as a fusion of a health wearable and an AI pendant, specifically designed for automotive use.
Vehicle Data and Personalized Assistance
The assistant will access vehicle data to deliver maintenance alerts, suggest optimal routes, explain vehicle features like one-pedal driving, and remotely activate the vehicle’s heating or air conditioning systems.
“We’ll take a base large language model, train it on the vehicle’s specifications, and refine it for operation within the vehicle,” Richardson stated.
Exploring Multiple AI Foundations
While GM has a strong partnership with Google and will initially implement Gemini, Richardson indicated that the company intends to evaluate foundational models from other AI companies.
Potential partners include OpenAI, Anthropic, and others.
Data Privacy and User Control
Drivers will have control over the information the assistant can access and utilize, and the system will learn from user habits to provide tailored recommendations.
GM’s focus on user controls is particularly relevant given recent scrutiny regarding the sale of customer driving and geolocation data to insurance companies.
Richardson emphasized that any data collected from drivers will be used solely to enhance the product and will not be sold for additional revenue.
GM has established a new data team, led by Christina Montgomery, formerly IBM’s chief privacy and trust officer, to implement standardized processes and data governance technologies.
Commitment to Data Privacy
“Customer consent will be central to everything we do, allowing users to opt in or out at any time,” Richardson affirmed. “We believe that data privacy must be integral to all our operations.”
This article has been updated with comments from Dave Richardson.
