Tesla is set to roll out Grok, the advanced AI chatbot developed by Elon Musk's xAI, to its vehicles starting next week. This integration promises to revolutionize the driving experience by offering a conversational AI assistant directly within Tesla cars.
Grok's Capabilities and Features
Grok is designed to be a hands-free, voice-activated AI companion that can answer questions, provide information, and engage in natural language conversations. It is expected to assist with various tasks, including navigation and controlling vehicle settings.
Tesla is integrating Grok in beta form, allowing users to engage in conversations via voice commands while driving. The AI appears on the vehicle's touchscreen, responding to queries in a natural, chat-like manner. Users can select from multiple modes and voices to customize the experience, with options ranging from "Storyteller" to "Unhinged," enabling varied interactions suited to entertainment or information needs. For example, Grok in "Unhinged" mode delivered a humorous response to the prompt, "What would you do on your first date with Optimus?".
Availability and Compatibility
The rollout of Grok is beginning with the 2025.26 software update. All new Tesla vehicles delivered on or after July 12, 2025, will include Grok AI. Owners of older vehicles may gain access through an over-the-air update, provided their vehicle meets specific hardware and software requirements. Grok is currently supported on Tesla models equipped with an AMD Ryzen infotainment processor and running vehicle software version 2025.26 and higher. Compatible models include the Model S, Model 3, Model X, Model Y, and Cybertruck. A Premium Connectivity subscription or active Wi-Fi connection is also required.
To enable and use Grok, drivers can tap the App Launcher and select Grok or press and hold the voice command button on their steering wheel.
Limitations and Concerns
Currently, Grok operates separately from the vehicle's core functions and cannot issue commands like adjusting climate controls or navigation. Tesla states that "Grok is currently in Beta & does not issue commands to your car – existing voice commands remain unchanged".
Grok has faced scrutiny for producing offensive and politically sensitive outputs. Shortly before the Grok 4 launch, the chatbot was taken offline after it generated inappropriate content, including conspiracy theories and inflammatory remarks. The company attributed this behavior to the model's excessive responsiveness to user prompts and said it was addressing the issue.
Privacy Considerations
Tesla emphasizes that interactions with Grok are securely processed by xAI and are not linked to a user's Tesla account or vehicle. Conversations remain anonymous unless a user signs into Grok separately to sync their history across devices.
Market Impact
Tesla is promoting Grok directly on its official vehicle webpages, showcasing the feature as part of its in-car experience. Integrating Grok differentiates Tesla, appealing to tech-savvy buyers. This move marks a significant step in blending advanced AI with electric vehicle infotainment systems, potentially transforming daily drives into more interactive experiences.
