In a groundbreaking partnership aimed at revolutionizing in-car navigation systems, Mercedes-Benz has teamed up with Google Cloud to introduce the MBUX Virtual Assistant, now with AI-powered sass and questionable culinary expertise. Built using Google’s Gemini on Vertex AI, the system will guide drivers to their destinations with conversational flair, even if those destinations include bizarre requests like “the nearest fine-dining restaurant for a unique culinary experience”.
With this innovative stride, the days of mundane GPS directions are behind us. Drivers can now discuss essential travel plans like, “Does the restaurant have good reviews?” (because who doesn’t want Michelin-star dining advice from their car?). Better yet, if you’re curious about a chef’s signature dish while cruising, your Mercedes-Benz is ready to dive deep into the foodie rabbit hole.
Mercedes-Benz is set to integrate this ultra-modern AI technology in the new CLA series later this year, giving drivers a unique mix of navigation and dinner date opinions . “Our partnership with Google Cloud will further enhance in-car navigation,” stated Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius, who skillfully avoided making promises about AI avoiding potholes. Meanwhile, Google CEO Sundar Pichai emphasised the “natural and helpful” capabilities of the Automotive AI Agent – because nothing says natural like chatting with your dashboard about sushi reviews.
Soon, drivers everywhere will be questioning their assistant’s taste in fine dining, all while wondering how this AI knows so much about truffle risotto. The next era of luxury driving? One where your car not only drives you but also shames your questionable life choices – one conversational search at a time.
