The implementation of voice artificial intelligence (Voice AI) as an in-vehicle voice assistant that uses a large language model (LLM) is only possible because SoundHound AI implemented its solution completely on the edge, running on the NVIDIA DRIVE platform. Originally developed for autonomous driving applications and connected vehicles, NVIDIA DRIVE now enables running large language models purely on-device and deliver Generative AI with no connectivity required for speech-to-meaning voice interactions. Only the specific queries rely on external connections and Internet access.
This approach seems to have fully convinced the management of Stellantis, currently one of the largest automotive manufacturing groups with the largest collection of brands. Stellantis now confirmed that it has approved a further expansion for the breakthrough voice assistant technology into two more Stellantis flagship brands: Alfa Romeo and Citroën.
The announcement follows recent launches in DS Automobiles, Peugeot, Opel, and Vauxhall vehicles. Earlier in March 2024, DS Automobiles became the very first automaker in the world to go into full production with a voice assistant that integrates the latest generative AI technology via SoundHound Chat AI. The assistant launched with DS across 18 countries and in 13 languages. Later Stellantis extended production to include Peugeot, Opel, and Vauxhall vehicles, promising full interactive knowledge discovery, real-time data, and effortless in-vehicle controls. And now the voice assistant will be available in the Alfa Romeo Junior Ibrida and in Citroën C4, C4X, C5X, Berlingo, and Spacetourer vehicles.
According to SoundHound, all these vehicles will be able to offer a new and versatile type of conversational experience for car drivers and passengers. Expanding upon in-vehicle voice assistant capabilities – like navigation, calls, and real-time information like sports scores and weather – Citroën and Alfa Romeo customers will also be able to enjoy ChatGPT-style responses, such as historical facts, storytelling, quizzes, trip planning assistance, and tips from the vehicle manual.
The system seamlessly recognizes natural human speech and uses generative AI to support informative conversations that flow naturally. Users can ask follow-up questions that draw on complementary real-time domains for optimal responses that are relevant and useful while they’re on the road, e.g.:
"What’s the most picturesque route from the South of France to Italy?"
"What’s the most popular place to stop along the way?"
"What is the weather like there now?"
"Could you navigate me to public parking there?"
"Find an electric vehicle charging station nearby."
"We’re delighted to extend our popular SoundHound Chat AI assistant to Alfa Romeo and Citroën vehicles. This innovation is proving to be a hit with drivers, who are getting ongoing value from their enhanced in-car voice assistant," says Michael Zagorsek, COO of SoundHound AI. "Drivers are still uncovering new and exciting uses for this highly capable, AI-driven voice technology. As we enter a new era for the vehicle cockpit, SoundHound is constantly pushing to deliver elite products that automakers trust and drivers love."
Built on proprietary technology that is platform and hardware agnostic, SoundHound's voice solutions support multiple languages and have been implemented across automotive, TV, and connected devices, and to customer service industries. SoundHound Chat AI is the company's latest powerful voice assistant with integrated Generative AI, which is now implemented for in-car voice experiences with options ranging from fully-embedded to exclusively cloud-connected.
www.soundhound.com
