Automotive conversational AI specialist Cerence and geolocation and mapping firm HERE Technologies are partnering to integrate HERE location intelligence with the Cerence Drive portfolio to bring AI-powered mobility assistant offerings to the automotive industry.

Cerence spun out of conversational AI firm Nuance Communications in August last year to focus exclusively on the conversational technologies in an automotive setting. HERE’s relationship with Cerence is long-standing, and pre-dates the firm’s spin-out from Nuance. Cerence already provides voice-supported access to HERE maps, APIs and point-of-interest (POI) data, with global car makers including Audi, BMW and Daimler among firms employing both products together. 

Voice-enabling HERE APIs, such as electric vehicle charging, fuel, parking and weather allows drivers to use natural language (instead of specific prescribed commands) to find the nearest EV charging station, for example, or covered parking near their destination in case of inclement weather.  

The latest collaboration aims to further tailor users’ in-car experiences through ongoing AI-based learning of driver preferences and habits. Rich location-based data from HERE provides context to a driver’s preferences, allowing the solution to provide more pointed and relevant suggestions. 

For example, if the system learns a driver frequents gas stations open 24 hours with diesel offerings, it will make suggestions based on those preferences. It also brings HERE 3D maps to Cerence’s multi-modal in-car experience, enabling drivers to interact with POIs outside the car using eye tracking and voice recognition. 

“Our work with HERE furthers our commitment to optimise the end-to-end performance of the mobility assistant experience for our customers,” said Stefan Ortmanns, EVP & General Manager, Core Automotive, Cerence. “HERE is a trusted partner and the leader in their space, and their extensive map and POI data is critical to bringing drivers a powerful experience they can count on in their day-to-day lives.

“As the popularity of mobility assistants continues to grow, accurate location information is integral to enable a driver to fully leverage the assistant and its capabilities,” said Jørgen Behrens, Chief Product Officer at HERE. “We are thrilled to work with Cerence to create a voice-powered, multi-modal automotive experience that enhances productivity and safety in the vehicle.”