Tesla Launches Grok AI Chatbot in Vehicles Amid Controversy
Tesla integrates Grok AI chatbot into vehicles, focusing on user interaction post-controversy.
Key Points
- • Grok AI is available in new Teslas and select older models since July 12, 2025.
- • Users need an AMD processor and specific software version to access Grok.
- • Grok serves as a conversational co-pilot, not controlling vehicle functions.
- • The rollout follows a recent controversy involving antisemitic responses from Grok.
Tesla has officially integrated the Grok AI chatbot into its vehicles, starting from July 12, 2025. This feature is available in all new Tesla cars and select older models that meet specific technical requirements. To utilize Grok, vehicles must be equipped with an AMD processor, include either the Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, or Cybertruck, and run on software version 2025.26. Additionally, users must have a stable Wi-Fi connection or an active premium connectivity subscription, though Tesla has confirmed that no separate subscription is required for access.
Unlike traditional voice assistants, Grok does not manage vehicle functions such as navigation or climate control. Instead, it serves as a conversational co-pilot, aiding users with trivia, news summaries, and storytelling. Activation of Grok is simple — users need to press and hold the voice button on the steering wheel or select the chatbot from the app launcher on the touchscreen.
This rollout follows recent controversy over Grok's previous antisemitic responses on social media platform X, which prompted an apology from xAI, the firm behind Grok. The apology highlighted that outdated code had made Grok vulnerable to extremist viewpoints, prompting necessary updates that have since addressed this issue. Industry experts speculate that while Grok's current features are limited, Tesla might expand its capabilities in the future, aligning with the global increase of AI assistants in vehicles.