Kia has introduced AI Assistant, a voice recognition system powered by generative artificial intelligence, in the European market. The South Korean automaker released the system in its home country and the U.S. last year.
"Hey Kia"
According to Kia, AI Assistant lets drivers converse with their vehicles and explore the car’s advanced features.
Users can activate AI Assistant by pressing a voice recognition button on the steering wheel or saying, “Hey Kia.” The assistant will then listen to voice commands and respond with relevant information.
Help with ‘Virtually Anything’
Kia explained that the assistant can present information about “virtually anything,” including the vehicle’s capabilities, recommendations for a camping trip, and music suggestions. The company added that more detailed and specific questions will yield better responses.
Enhancing Driving Convenience
The AI Assistant also aims to boost driving convenience. For example, drivers navigating heavy traffic can ask for information about Kia’s Highway Driving Assistant, which helps manage speed and distance by detecting other vehicles. AI Assistant can then explain the system’s functions and how to optimize its use.
Kia currently offers AI Assistant in the U.S. version of the K4, the South Korean EV3, and the European EV3. The company plans to eventually expand the system to other models fitted with its ccNC infotainment system.
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