The Volkswagen Group has unveiled its latest initiative, the "AI Lab," dedicated to advancing the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in its vehicles. The company aims to collaborate with the tech sector in Europe, North America, and China, emphasizing the creation of digital prototypes and forming partnerships with technology companies. The focus of the AI Lab includes connecting vehicles to external digital ecosystems, paving the way for improved product experiences and potential advancements in driver assistance software, predictive maintenance, and advanced charging technologies.


The Volkswagen Group has taken a significant step in embracing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) with the launch of its new venture, the "AI Lab." This dedicated AI company aims to foster collaboration with the technology sector across Europe, North America, and China, with a primary focus on creating digital prototypes and establishing partnerships with key players in the tech industry.

Volkswagen's strategic move is driven by the vision of enhancing customer experiences through the integration of AI in its vehicles. The company aims to connect cars to external digital ecosystems, signaling a potential shift towards merging current driver assistance software with external infrastructure.

Oliver Blume, CEO of Volkswagen-Porsche, highlighted the aspirations of the newly established AI Lab, emphasizing the goal of providing genuine added value to customers through AI. The company envisions linking external digital ecosystems with vehicles, aiming for an even better product experience. Blume stressed the crucial importance of collaboration with technology companies, stating, "Collaboration with technology companies is crucially important for us. In the future, we intend to simplify cooperation in organizational and cultural terms."

The notion of connecting vehicles to external infrastructure reflects the industry's ongoing efforts to address challenges related to autonomous driving and driver assistance. While fully autonomous vehicles are yet to be realized, the prospect of equipping vehicles with the hardware and AI software to connect to traffic signals, roads, and other vehicles is gaining attention.

Volkswagen's AI Lab is set to focus on various aspects, including vehicle-to-vehicle communication, infotainment, predictive maintenance, and advanced charging technologies. This strategic move suggests a commitment to exploring the potential of AI beyond internal applications, incorporating external connectivity for a more comprehensive and innovative vehicle experience.

Michael Steiner, Head of Research and Development at Volkswagen, highlighted the autonomy granted to AI Lab, allowing the company to independently establish deals with tech companies, irrespective of existing arrangements. This approach underscores the importance of rapid prototyping and expeditious implementation of AI solutions, indicating a proactive stance toward bringing innovations to production more efficiently.

The AI Lab has already initiated discussions related to its first products, engaging in explanatory talks with potential partners. As Volkswagen pioneers this venture, the industry will keenly observe the developments that emerge from the AI Lab, anticipating advancements that could reshape the integration of artificial intelligence in the automotive landscape.

(TRISTAN GREENE, COINTELEGRAPH, 2024)