Volkswagen Group has established a new ‘AI Lab’ that will develop digital prototypes based on artificial intelligence to spearhead new innovations.

AI Lab will identify new product ideas for the group and coordinate them internally

Announced just weeks after the group revealed that it’s introducing the AI-based ChatGPT service to its cars, the new offshoot will act as a “globally networked competence centre and incubator”.

AI Lab will identify new product ideas for the group and coordinate them internally.

Volkswagen said it intends to simplify collaboration with tech companies and to make optimum use of the AI sector’s innovation potential.

This includes new infotainment and navigation applications, high-performance speech recognition, extended vehicle functions and the deep integration of digital ecosystems.

All are expected to bring considerable benefits to customers, enhancing the product experience. However, Volkswagen said it sees considerable potential in high-performance speech recognition and services that connect users’ own digital environments with the vehicle.

Extended vehicle functions will be equally important. These can include AI-optimised charging cycles for electric vehicles, predictive maintenance and the networking of vehicles with infrastructure, such as customers’ own homes, supporting ‘smart home’ developments.

“We want to offer our customers genuine added value wit artificial intelligence. We aim to link external digital ecosystems with the vehicle, creating an even better product experience,” said Oliver Blume, CEO of the Volkswagen Group and Porsche AG. “Collaboration with technology companies is crucially important for us. In future, we intend to simplify cooperation in organisational and cultural terms.”

AI Lab won’t manufacture production models, but will serve as an incubator for the Volkswagen Group. The company will identify new product ideas connected with artificial intelligence throughout the world. AI Lab will then develop concepts together with partners where the need arises, to produce early prototypes.

Exploratory talks on the first products are already under way with international tech companies.