Artificial Intelligence in the Automotive Industry

Abstract wave shape in green and blue tones.

We are resolutely driving forward the digitalization of our company. For us, artificial intelligence is the key to greater speed, quality and competitiveness. In every process, we examine how artificial intelligence (AI) can improve the result so that we can offer our customers even more attractive products and organize our work more efficiently.

Hauke Stars, Board Member at Volkswagen Group for IT, in front of a dark blue painting with different shades. — **Hauke Stars** Head of IT Volkswagen Group

The value of artificial intelligence – no process without AI

Woman sitting inside a modern car interacting with the digital cockpit display.

For us, AI is a strategic driver on the road to the future of the automotive industry. Whether in autonomous driving or in quality assurance, in the supply chain or in administrative work: We are bringing artificial intelligence into all areas. In this way, we are accelerating development cycles, automating processes and promoting new ideas – including in design and material construction. This is how we are actively shaping the future of the automotive industry.

Artificial intelligence in practice – more than 1,200 AI applications in use

Over 1,200 AI applications are already active across the Group, with hundreds more in development or about to be implemented.

Artificial intelligence is used in all central areas of the Volkswagen Group: from vehicle development and production to cybersecurity and also in the Group-wide exchange of knowledge. We want to become significantly faster and more efficient through the consistent, scalable use of AI along the entire automotive value chain.

Advantages through AI

We use artificial intelligence to improve our products and processes.

The difference is tangible:

more attractive vehicles and faster availability of technologies
even better service for customers
more efficient use of energy and materials in production
lower costs and CO₂ emissions

Artificial intelligence – human judgment

Employee in VW workwear operating at a manufacturing station inside a production hall.

AI needs rules, and this also applies to the automotive industry. That is why we act on the basis of ethical standards and European regulation. When it comes to sensitive personnel issues, for example, a human being will make the final decision. Always.

The key to the success of AI is acceptance. It is crucial that our employees understand and utilize the possibilities of artificial intelligence in their day-to-day work. With our ‘WE & AI’ initiative, we have been promoting targeted training and open dialogue on AI since spring 2024. Our goals: generate enthusiasm, build knowledge and anchor artificial intelligence in our corporate culture in the long term.

Thinking ahead with AI – industrial cooperation across sectors

The Volkswagen Group wants to drive forward the use of artificial intelligence even more in future and cooperate with technology and industry partners. Industrial AI models based on real production, design and process data from participating companies offer enormous potential for this. We are exploring how we can harness this potential.