Automotive
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 highlighted the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) because the driving force behind the automotive industry. Established automakers are intensifying their efforts to meet up with digital features which have set corporations like Tesla and BYD apart, signaling a shift towards what the industry terms “software-defined vehicles.”
Unlike the normal deal with horsepower and towing capabilities, the contemporary automotive landscape places a big emphasis on software-driven enhancements. Greater than a decade after Tesla introduced cars with upgradable over-the-air software, mainstream automakers are still striving to develop similar capabilities.
The transition to software-dominated cars presents a novel set of challenges. Vehicles must meet higher standards for durability and safety in comparison with consumer electronics, and the fast-paced evolution of AI systems like ChatGPT poses a challenge because of their error-prone nature and rapid development cycles.
Mercedes-Benz has ventured right into a “beta program” to check ChatGPT AI technology, aiming to facilitate natural dialogues between drivers and the vehicle’s infotainment systems. This departure from traditional testing methods signifies a broader shift within the industry. Mercedes shouldn’t be only allowing customers to check a system under development but can also be adapting its IT infrastructure, manufacturing lines, and dealership processes to accommodate faster software updates.
Efforts by established automakers to match technology industry software capabilities have incurred substantial costs, with occasional setbacks. General Motors faced challenges with the Chevrolet Blazer EV because of software-related glitches, resulting in a short lived halt in sales. In contrast, Tesla’s use of over-the-air updates exemplifies a more seamless approach to software revisions.
The challenge to develop software architectures comparable to Tesla’s capabilities has been described as a “steep challenge” by industry experts. Volkswagen, after restructuring its Cariad software operation, is now looking for technology industry partnerships to expedite its efforts.
At CES, Volkswagen announced a collaboration with Cerence, a U.S. software developer, to integrate ChatGPT into its cars later within the 12 months. Chinese automakers are also making significant strides within the AI-driven EV market, with in-vehicle displays offering advanced infotainment functions.
To remain competitive, Japanese automaker Honda formed a three way partnership with Sony in 2022. The Sony Honda Mobility enterprise goals to mix Honda’s vehicle engineering experience with Sony’s software and gaming expertise for a brand new line of EVs set to launch in 2025.
Nonetheless, the challenge extends beyond development to consumer adoption. While some automakers are introducing subscription fees for software-powered features, consumer willingness to pay for such features stays a priority. Analysts and industry executives suggest that the window for adding fees for brand new software functions is restricted, emphasizing the importance of meeting consumer demands inside the following three to 5 years.
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This Article First Appeared At www.automotiveaddicts.com
