Cerence, a developer of AI-based voice assistant technology for automobiles, has partnered with Škoda, a subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group, to integrate Škoda's in-car voice assistant, Laura, with Cerence Chat Pro, an automotive-grade large language model.

The integration deployed via a cloud update enables Škoda drivers to carry out conversations with its in-car assistant, improving the accessibility to the vehicle’s features and related information. The feature is available in various languages, including English, Spanish, Czech, and German, for various Škoda models, the Enyaq family, new-generation Superb and Kodiaq, and updated Octavia.

The integration reportedly prioritizes user privacy and data protection, with strict measures in place to delete interactions after processing and prevent access to personal information or vehicle data.

Analyst QuickTake: The partnership adds to Cerence’s ongoing partnership with Škoda’s parent company, Volkswagen.  The two companies initially partnered in January 2024 to deliver AI-powered ChatGPT to enhance in-car experiences. Cerence deployed Cerence Chat Pro integrations to Volkswagen’s European lineup of vehicle models in June 2024 , and earlier this month , it introduced its ChatGPT-integrated Plus Speech voice assistant to Volkswagen’s vehicles sold in the US.