Lucid EV drivers can now activate an AI assistant with voice commands

Lucid Motors announced its AI-powered in-vehicle assistant that responds to voice commands and provides real-time information to drivers.

Core Feature Introduction: The Lucid Assistant, powered by SoundHound Chat AI, enables hands-free voice control and information access for Lucid EV drivers.

• Drivers can activate the assistant by saying “Hey Lucid” to access information about sports, stocks, weather, and vehicle features
• The system includes access to the full vehicle manual for answering specific questions about vehicle functionality
• Many features work without cellular connectivity, ensuring consistent availability

Technical Implementation: SoundHound’s proprietary technology aims to deliver more accurate and reliable responses compared to traditional AI language models.

• The system employs specialized methods to reduce “AI hallucinations” (incorrect or misleading responses that can occur with large language models)
• The assistant selects responses from appropriate domains, switching between generative AI and real-time data sources as needed
• Regular over-the-air (OTA) updates will expand the assistant’s capabilities and functions over time

Key Partnerships and Development: Lucid’s collaboration with SoundHound represents a strategic move to enhance the driver experience.

• Dr. Jean-Philippe Gauthier, Lucid’s Head of Software Engineering, emphasizes that the assistant goes beyond basic voice control features
• SoundHound AI’s COO Michael Zagorsek suggests the technology will fundamentally change vehicle-driver interactions
• The partnership builds on Lucid’s existing relationship with Aston Martin for EV powertrain technology

Business Context: Lucid continues to expand its product offerings and market presence.

• The company achieved record EV deliveries for three consecutive quarters through Q3
• Lucid recently launched its first electric SUV, the Gravity
• CEO Peter Rawlinson indicates ongoing discussions with multiple automakers for potential powertrain partnerships

Future Implications: The integration of advanced AI assistants in vehicles signals a shift toward more intelligent and interactive automotive interfaces, though success will largely depend on the system’s reliability and usefulness in real-world conditions.