GM Interns Test AI Assistants in Downtown Detroit
Four interns from General Motors’ Global Communications team spent a day driving around downtown Detroit in a Chevrolet Blazer EV SS. They were putting Google Gemini to the test, an AI assistant designed for navigation and planning.
The four-person team of Mirabel Chin, Abbi Gabli, Kendall McCardell, and Abby Vincler had a packed itinerary. Their first challenge was finding their parked car after leaving it in a crowded lot.
Mirabel used voice commands to remind them where they’d left the Blazer. Gemini quickly responded with directions back to the parking spot, saving the team from wasting time searching for it.
Their next stop was a local coffee shop, but before heading out, they decided to see how well Gemini could handle small talk. One of the interns asked if the AI preferred oat milk or almond milk in its hypothetical coffee drink.
Gemini politely declined, explaining that it doesn’t consume dairy products. The lighthearted exchange set a fun tone for the rest of their adventure behind the wheel.
The team then headed to Valade Park, where they put Gemini’s playlist-building skills to work. With just a few voice commands, the AI assistant created a perfect soundtrack for their journey through downtown Detroit.
Gemini did an impressive job understanding the interns’ preferences and mood, crafting a cohesive playlist that complemented their drive. The team was impressed by how well the AI assistant knew what they wanted.
As they arrived at the park, the team showed off their strategic planning skills with a game of life-sized chess. This activity demonstrated how AI can enhance travel experiences by providing valuable insights and suggestions.
The last stop on their itinerary was a local pizzeria, where the interns displayed compromise in choosing toppings for their meal. Gemini even chimed in with a suggestion that pepperoni and jalapeños would be an excellent combination - a recommendation that proved to be spot-on.
Throughout the drive, Gemini responded naturally to conversational questions, handled follow-ups without rigid commands, and delivered well-timed jokes. The team appreciated how easily they could interact with the AI assistant during their trip.
When traffic or road closures threw off their plans, Gemini quickly rerouted them, ensuring they arrived at their destinations on time. The AI assistant also suggested playlists that matched the mood of each leg of their journey.
This experience highlighted how software and hardware work together seamlessly in GM vehicles. With Gemini taking care of practical tasks like navigation and planning, the interns could focus on enjoying the city’s sights and sounds.
The day-long adventure ultimately showed that everyday driving is significantly easier with an AI assistant like Gemini. This technology has the potential to transform the driving experience for General Motors’ customers.
By providing smart software that supports drivers in critical moments, GM can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. The availability of features may vary depending on subscription status, so it’s essential to check compatibility before hitting the road.
Some connected apps require setup, while results may differ based on individual preferences. Nevertheless, this experience has shown the immense potential of AI assistants like Gemini in shaping the future of driving experiences.
The GM interns’ adventure also demonstrated how AI can be integrated into various aspects of travel, from navigation to entertainment. This integration has the potential to revolutionize the way people interact with their vehicles.
Google Gemini’s features are not limited to navigation and planning. The AI assistant can also provide valuable insights and suggestions throughout a trip, making it easier for drivers to navigate through unfamiliar areas.
This experience is just one example of how General Motors is pushing the boundaries of in-vehicle experiences. By leveraging smart software that supports drivers, GM aims to create more conversational and intuitive interactions with its vehicles.