Last year, I experienced firsthand how artificial intelligence is transforming our interaction with vehicles. While driving the Audi Q6 e-tron, I asked, "Hey Audi, what's a good place to visit outside of Bilbao?" It promptly suggested visiting San Sebastián, highlighting Monte Igueldo and Eduardo Chillida's Peine del Viento sculptures. This was a leap from my previous car's basic capability to find fast food, thanks to integration with ChatGPT, which understood my request contextually and assisted in planning a day trip. By 2025, AI is set to significantly impact transportation, enhancing design, safety, and personalization in vehicles. Driverless robotaxis will expand to more cities, though safety remains a priority for automakers and regulators. Over the past decade, I've observed AI's role in driving innovation, from natural language voice control to vehicle design and crash safety. Autonomous vehicles, once a dream, are now reality with services like Waymo One offering rides in San Francisco and Phoenix. Though not perfect, these services are expanding to cities like Atlanta in partnership with Uber.

Hyundai's Motional is also testing robotaxis, with plans to grow its service in various locations. Meanwhile, AI enhances driver assistance systems, making technologies like adaptive cruise control more reliable. General Motors' Super Cruise allows hands-off driving on approved highways, and Mercedes-Benz introduced Drive Pilot, a Level 3 system permitting hands-free operation under certain conditions. Vehicles are becoming conversational with ChatGPT-powered voice assistants from companies like Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz, enabling more natural interactions. AI also aids in predictive maintenance, identifying issues before they escalate, and can explain vehicle problems in plain language. In manufacturing, AI optimizes design and production processes, seen in BMW's flexible assembly lines for various powertrains and Hyundai's advanced factories. The adoption of AI promises safer and more personalized driving experiences for consumers, while helping manufacturers enhance efficiency and reduce costs. However, challenges remain regarding safety, security, ethics, and data privacy. The push for AI in the automotive industry calls for careful consideration of these factors as we anticipate more advancements in the years ahead.