Cerence and Volkswagen Advance Partnership with Advanced Conversational AI for In-Car Conversations

Cerence and Volkswagen have enhanced their partnership to upgrade the IDA in-car assistant with advanced conversational AI capabilities. The system, powered by Cerence Chat Pro, enables more complex, multi-turn conversations, enhancing the user experience with natural dialogue and added functionality like navigation and entertainment. The upgrade is currently available in most recent models across Volkswagen Group brands, with a rollout expected throughout 2025.

Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC) and Volkswagen Group have recently strengthened their partnership to upgrade the IDA in-car assistant with advanced conversational AI capabilities. This upgrade, powered by Cerence Chat Pro, enables more complex, multi-turn conversations, enhancing the user experience with natural dialogue and added functionality like navigation and entertainment. The upgrade is currently available in most recent models across Volkswagen Group brands, with a rollout expected throughout 2025.

Cerence Chat Pro supports more intricate, multi-turn conversations, allowing drivers to follow up naturally without needing to repeat themselves or rephrase their requests. For example, a user can ask for a fun fact about Berlin, and the system can provide detailed information, answer follow-up questions, and even discuss the weather. This upgrade aims to make every interaction feel more human-like and less like talking to a machine.

Christian Mentz, Chief Revenue Officer at Cerence AI, stated, "This advanced user experience is a clear illustration of Cerence AI and Volkswagen Group’s shared commitment to making the in-car experience more personal, connected, and intelligent – addressing real driver needs and delivering added value even after vehicle purchase."

Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, added, "Our goal at Volkswagen is to provide our customers with user-centric experiences that include smart, seamless technology. By upgrading our in-car assistant in partnership with Cerence AI, we are delivering even more human-like conversations and a vastly expanded knowledge base, making every journey more enjoyable and connected."

This latest advancement further strengthens Volkswagen’s leadership in bringing intuitive, intelligent mobility solutions to its drivers worldwide. The upgrade is already available in Volkswagen, Cupra, Seat, and Skoda models in Europe and the US, with continued rollout planned for 2025.

References:
[1] https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/08/25/3138383/0/en/Smarter-Faster-and-More-Human-Cerence-AI-and-Volkswagen-Advance-Partnership-to-Deliver-Next-Gen-In-Car-Conversations.html