Many cars now have AI-powered voice assistantsbut Mercedes knows that their dependence on the cloud can make them unreliable. He just joined with Liquid AI to provide more on-device voice control, ideally giving you faster interactions that are more respectful of your privacy.
Liquid AI’s smallest and most efficient basic AI models are designed for on-device use. That limits the need for the cloud, reduces wait time for requests and provides a “more consistent experience” while driving, according to Mercedes. They also improve privacy and independence, as data is less likely to leave your car.
The partnership is based on Mercedes-Benz’s in-house operating system (MB.OS) and will be extended to the MBUX virtual assistant.
Which Mercedes cars will get the improved AI?
You will need one from the last few years.
Mercedes aims to roll out Liquid AI technology in the US and Canada in the second half of 2026, and will require you to have a relatively recent car to upgrade.
Among third-generation cars, the 2024 model year CLE and E-Class sedans are the oldest qualifying models. Combustion-engine versions of the 2025-later C-Class sedan and GLC SUV will also qualify, as will the 2026-later GT and SL coupes.
You’ll see much broader support among fourth-generation vehicles. The 2026 electric CLA and its 2027 combustion counterpart are eligible, as is the Electric C-Class 2027. The 2027 versions of the EQS sedanThe electric GLC, GLE, GLS, S-Class and AMG EA GT 4-door are equally compatible. You can find the full compatibility list below:
-
2024+ CLE
-
2024+ E-Class
-
2025+ Class C (combustion)
-
2025+ GLC (combustion)
-
2026+ GT 2 doors
-
2026+ SL
-
2026+ CLA (electric)
-
2027+ CLA (combustion)
-
2027+ Class C (combustion and electric)
-
2027+ GLB (combustion and electric)
-
2027+ GLC (electric)
-
EQS 2027 Sedan
-
2027 GLE
-
2027 GLS
-
S-Class 2027
-
2027 AMG EA GT 4 doors
Is Mercedes’ AI better than other cars?
The right driving conditions could give you an advantage
Advanced AI is now relatively common in cars. BMW models use Amazon’s Alexa+, for example, and phone integrations like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are providing road access to tools like Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. However, these typically rely on the cloud due to their size and computing demands.
Mercedes’ approach could be particularly useful in circumstances where you can’t afford to wait for the cloud to arrive, such as asking for directions just as you approach an intersection. It could be even more important if you are in an area where data is unstable or unavailable, such as a rural road or tunnel.
Don’t forget privacy
And while your information isn’t necessarily exposed with cloud-based AI, the Mercedes team with Liquid AI could put your mind at ease by simply locating more requests. There is less risk of a hacker or surveillance agency intercepting your commands.
He US CLOUD Law It requires U.S. companies to provide data to authorities upon certain requests, even when it’s stored outside the country, but you won’t have to worry about that if Mercedes never stores that data.
Fountain: Mercedes-Benz
