For years tech giants and automakers have focused on the race to develop self-driving cars – most recently leveraging the power of AI. But over time, it has become evident that its potential in vehicles extends beyond autonomy. Car makers and software companies are now focused on using AI to enhance the overall driving experience and vehicle utility. This includes features like predictive maintenance, personalised in-car experiences, and advanced safety systems.
This evolution, and the integration of AI into connected vehicle technology, is reshaping the automotive landscape. Here we look at how AI is influencing the future of vehicle technology and how Intelematics is helping vehicle manufacturers and fleets to innovate and harness its power.
Autonomy paving the way
Driverless vehicles, and the technologies which power them, continue to pave the way for AI across the automotive sector. Tesla, Google and GM have pioneered this space, but there has been limited testing or adoption in Australia.
For connected vehicles, the environmental ‘awareness’ that AI gives vehicles, promises safer roads, less traffic, and improved accessibility.
A recent example of autonomous innovation is Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Beta. The v12 release, announced in January, uses AI to interpret sensor data, make split-second decisions, and uses unique neural networks to navigate its environment. Another notable example is Waymo Driver which has been used to power 7.1m driverless miles in the US. In tests, this has led to a reduction in police-reported crashes when compared to human benchmarks
While regulation has restricted the adoption of autonomous vehicles in Australia, AI is having a positive impact. When integrated into connected vehicle technology, it is being used to assist, inform and guide drivers rather than replace them entirely.
Personalisation powered by AI
The rise of AI has seen the opportunity for personalised in-car experiences grow exponentially. This includes driving preferences, intelligent route planning, and advanced speech software.
Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX system is an example. It uses AI to learn the driver’s preferences and habits – automatically adjusting vehicle settings, such as seat position and temperature. It will also automatically dial into a meeting if the owner’s calendar says they are running late.
Volkswagen has announced that upcoming models will feature integrated artificial intelligence software to answer occupants’ questions. VW will use ChatGPT within its ‘IPA’ voice assistant software. It will be used to control vehicle functions and answer questions.
Audi AI goes one step further and incorporates advanced voice recognition – allowing drivers to interact with their system and carry out complex commands using natural language.
This level of personalisation was unthinkable a few years ago and will continue to positively impact the evolution of connected vehicles.
AI delivering smarter vehicle maintenance
A new generation of predictive technologies, powered by AI, is presenting a smarter alternative to traditional vehicle maintenance. Pioneered by companies including Intelematics, BMW and GM, the technology combines telematics with machine learning – collecting and analysing real-time data to assess total vehicle health and accurately forecast the failure of parts.
A prime example is Intelematics’ FailSafe – a predictive maintenance service that uses AI to predict vehicle battery failure. The service identifies patterns in battery performance and uses this information to train data algorithms, which help it to identify issues more accurately. This data-driven approach allows fleet managers to plan maintenance activities more efficiently and replace parts only when necessary.
Investment in predictive maintenance solutions is expected to grow as fleet companies and manufacturers look for safer, more intelligent and cost effective systems and services.
Enhancing safety and emergency response with AI
Advanced safety systems powered by AI are in their infancy but more basic AI driver assistance features are now commonplace in many vehicles. This includes smart lane departure warnings and collision detection systems. In the future, more advanced systems will operate independently and intervene when required.
One of those technologies is eCall – an emergency call system that automatically contacts emergency services in the event of a serious road accident. Used as part of platforms like Intelematic’s ASURE, it significantly reduces response times. However, with the integration of AI, eCall’s capabilities could be further enhanced.
AI can enhance eCall by improving the accuracy and speed of accident detection. For example, AI algorithms could quickly analyse sensor data to determine the severity and circumstances of a crash.
Integrating AI with eCall systems could also involve real-time health monitoring of the vehicle’s occupants. Wearables or embedded sensors could track vital signs such as heart rate or blood oxygen levels post-accident. AI could also streamline communication between a vehicle and emergency services using Natural Language Processing technologies.
For vehicle manufacturers, AI-enabled eCall would improve the safety of vehicle owners, pave the way for more data-driven services and create new revenue streams.
An exciting road ahead for AI
The integration of AI into connected vehicle technology is a trend that will continue to evolve. From transforming the way we think of vehicle autonomy to redefining maintenance and personalising driving experiences. AI is at the centre of this transformation.
Intelematics is helping to push the boundaries of what is possible and leveraging AI for innovation. From predictive maintenance to emergency response solutions like eCall, Intelematics is ensuring that the future of transport is safer, more efficient, and more enjoyable.
As we continue to witness these advancements one thing is clear – the road ahead for connected vehicle technology is as exciting as it is AI-driven.
Jules is a highly experienced sales executive with a consistent proven record in promoting innovative products into Enterprise, Transport & Logistics, Public Sector and Automotive industries. He has over 14 years in selling specialised technology solutions to Automotive, Enterprises and Telecommunications industries in Australia, New Zealand, Japan and across Asia. Jules is passionate about connected services that enhance mobility, convenience and safety for people on the move. Here he writes about industry trends in the mobility as a service space.
