Uber is embracing the power of artificial intelligence by partnering with OpenAI to encourage its drivers to adopt electric vehicles (EVs).
The ride-sharing giant revealed its new AI assistant at the Get Zero sustainability conference in London alongside other green initiatives.
Powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4 model, the AI will act as a personalized guide, helping drivers transition confidently from traditional fuel-powered cars to EVs.
AI as a personal EV guide
Switching from a gas car to an electric one isn’t always straightforward, with many drivers unsure of the costs, maintenance, and infrastructure surrounding EVs. This is where Uber’s new AI assistant steps in, acting as a kind of automotive concierge.
By adapting its responses to each driver’s specific needs and circumstances, the AI will provide tailored advice on everything from how to purchase an EV to tips on maintaining the vehicle.
The AI will also be packed with useful information such as purchase prices, finding charging stations, and even incentives that vary depending on where the driver lives.
For instance, a driver in California might get details about state rebates and tax credits, while someone in New York could learn about discounts at nearby charging stations. The goal is to remove the complexity of switching to EVs, making it as easy as conversing.
Uber’s broader green strategy
The introduction of the AI assistant is just one part of Uber’s broader strategy to promote EV adoption. The company has already introduced features that allow riders to specifically request EVs and is rolling out initiatives to connect experienced EV drivers with those considering the switch.
These drivers can answer questions the AI may not cover, offering a human touch to the transition process.
Uber isn’t limiting its AI to EVs, however. The company has plans to expand the assistant’s capabilities beyond electric cars by 2025. It will eventually be able to answer a broader range of questions, making it a more flexible and valuable tool for drivers in various situations.
This makes it clear that Uber sees the future of driving as deeply intertwined with AI, not just for EV adoption but for improving the overall driver experience.
OpenAI’s expanding presence in the automotive world
For OpenAI, this collaboration with Uber is another step in expanding its influence within the automotive industry. AI-powered voice assistants have become increasingly common in modern cars, and ChatGPT’s models are a key player in this space.
Recently, Volkswagen rolled out its own AI-powered assistant, incorporating ChatGPT’s technology to offer more conversational and versatile responses to drivers. Similarly, Mercedes-Benz and other major carmakers have been experimenting with ChatGPT to enhance their vehicle assistants.
With Uber, Volkswagen, and others adopting these AI technologies, OpenAI is positioning itself to significantly impact how drivers interact with the next generation of car assistants. AI plays a more significant role in shaping the future of mobility, helping make tasks like learning about EVs or navigating the road a little bit easier.
Using ChatGPT as part of its push towards sustainability, Uber is making it easier for drivers to switch to EVs and demonstrating how AI can play a crucial role in driving the future of green transportation.