Cerence uses its Co-Pilot to help drivers, cars interact

Cerence's Co-Pilot feature aims to put a friendly face on the massive lines of software code in today's advanced vehicles, giving drivers a way to naturally interact with their cars via voice, touch and gesture commands.

It is part of the software company's business strategy to integrate artificial intelligence into consumer-oriented car functions. For example, Cerence's in-car assistant can ask drivers if they want to turn on connected devices such as residential heaters as they approach home or remind them to schedule regular vehicle maintenance.

Cerence Co-Pilot uses AI and continuous learning to determine what sort of suggestions drivers want to use most.

Some of the first vehicles to use Cerence's AI will be electric models from Renault, which will offer a smiling, branded version called Reno, the official Renault avatar.

Reno will act as a next-generation co-pilot and can help new EV drivers learn the features of their car, including initial setup and guided tours. Reno will also be able to guide drivers to the "most optimal EV charging station" by considering the driver's plans and schedule, suggesting a slower charger at a movie theater, for example.