General Motors (GM) will provide millions of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac owners with the opportunity to download and install a new in-vehicle Alexa experience coming in the first half of 2020.
Leveraging 4G LTE connectivity and GM’s updateable app framework, Alexa will be made available on model year 2018 and newer vehicles with compatible infotainment systems.
GM research shows that many customers prefer to use the same voice services they use at home in their vehicles. The Alexa voice experience leverages the Alexa Auto Software Development Kit, which gives customers access to standard Alexa skills and capabilities. This will also enable GM to create custom skills in the future that are relevant to the customer’s vehicle. This collaboration represents the broadest roll-out of an embedded Alexa Auto experience to date, and provides a tailored voice experience for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac drivers with properly equipped vehicles.
“GM’s updateable app framework and vehicle connectivity lets us provide customers with new technologies that enhance the ownership experience, even to customers with vehicles that are already on the road,” said Santiago Chamorro, vice president for global connected services, GM. “Bringing the Alexa experience to our vehicles is an example of how we are listening to our customers’ feedback, and offering them the voice technology of their choice.”
Drivers can enjoy Alexa by using simple voice commands, all while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. Users are able to check the news, control smart home devices like lights or thermostats, and add items to their shopping cart, among others. Additionally, GM is delivering several categories of Alexa features that expand on the in-vehicle experience, including:
Navigation – Ask Alexa to get directions to a specific address or point of interest. The app seamlessly integrates with compatible, embedded navigation systems.
Media – Ask Alexa to play a specific song, artist, genre or station, as well as audiobooks or podcasts.
Calling – Drivers can ask Alexa to call friends and family when they pair their phone via Bluetooth and share their contacts with Amazon.
Ned Curic, vice president of Alexa Auto at Amazon, added, “Customers already love using Alexa at home, and soon they can bring her with them on the go, whether they’re looking for a new car or own a compatible Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle already on the road. We’re thrilled to be working with GM to help its customers stay more connected, more entertained and more productive.”
This integration represents the latest collaboration between GM and Amazon. In 2018, GM launched in-car delivery with Key by Amazon and a series of Connected Car skills for Alexa.
Interested in the user experience of vehicles of the future? The Future of Automotive Interiors Conference, hosted at Automotive Interiors Expo in Novi later this month, will have an entire session dedicated to the topic. Nikhil Gowda, Innovation project manager at Renault-Nissan will also talk in-depth about voice AI development. Find the full program, as well as rates and booking information here.
