Mercedes-Benz vehicles are consistently at the forefront of automotive technology, so it’s no surprise that they are seeking out new ways to innovate and improve their infotainment. The MBUX system has proven to be a powerhouse for the manufacturer, and the latest changes are set to bring Google’s AI Agent into Mercedes vehicles to enhance the virtual assistant.
Google Cloud recently released its new Automotive AI Agent, announcing that the Mercedes-Benz CLA will be the first in the lineup to receive this new system. There are further roll-outs planned to other models with the MBUX Voice Assistant, though details are currently unconfirmed.
This partnership between Mercedes Benz and Google Cloud is set to utilise an Agent built on Gemini and Vertex AI. It will integrate conversational search and intelligent navigation and be powered by generative AI. These upgrades will offer a more detailed and user-focused response, personalising everything from navigation routes to points of interest and more.
The Automotive AI Agent provided by Google has been built using the Google Maps platform, in that its database of over 250 million locations across the world has been drawn on for this technology. With complex processing and memory, the AI can offer multi-turn dialogues, retain any information received from the conversations of the user, provide ‘nearly’ real-time map updates and ultimately offer seamless navigation and information that suits the driver’s needs and preferences best. It allows users to ask questions and receive detailed answers regarding their navigation, including asking for nearby locations, reviews, recommendations, and it can answer follow-up questions. Google also state that “it will be able to pick up where you left off” if you pause in a conversation and ask a follow-up question later.
Speaking on this partnership, Google’s Chief Sundar Pichai, stated “Mercedes-Benz is known for providing an amazing driving experience, and our partnership will bring cutting-edge AI breakthroughs to make those experiences even better. This is just the beginning of how agentic capabilities can transform the automotive industry.”
Also speaking on this change, Mercedes-Benz’s CEO, Ola Kallenius, said “At Mercedes-Benz, we seek to offer our customers an exceptional digital experience. Our partnership with Google Cloud will further enhance in-car navigation, combining sophisticated location data with generative AI.”
The adoption of Google’s AI into Mercedes MBUX Virtual Assistant technology is set to enhance and improve the existing experience considerably. Here at DDR Surrey, we keep on top of the recent advancements to ensure our maintenance and repairs are of a high-quality. Simply get in touch with our team to find out more, today.
