Mercedes-Benz is set to revolutionize car navigation with its Concept CLA Class, integrating Google’s AI technology to transform driver interactions. This partnership will utilize Google Cloud's automotive AI, featuring the Gemini LLM models alongside the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) assistant.
The new system will enable natural language processing, allowing drivers to communicate intuitively with their vehicles. By accessing Google Maps, the assistant will provide real-time information on over 250 million locations, including daily updates.
Drivers can ask complex questions like, 'Where is the nearest available electric vehicle charging station?' or 'Find me a café with outdoor seating and Wi-Fi.' The integration aims to facilitate ongoing dialogues, enhancing user experience.
Mercedes anticipates that practical results from this collaboration will be available by the end of the year, with the new AI-enhanced navigation features debuting in the upcoming CLA model, which will also introduce the new MB.OS operating system.
Additional models featuring the MBUX voice assistant are planned, although specific release details remain undisclosed.