Mercedes-Benz Direct Chat.

This AI-powered chatbot is based on OpenAI’s ChatGPT technology and delivers precise, context-aware responses within seconds. With its latest update in August 2025, Direct Chat has become even more powerful – thanks to the integration of Google Gemini, employees now have access to multiple AI models depending on their needs. New features such as image generation and analysis using DALL.E are now also available directly within the chat. This allows users not only to create visual content but also to interpret it instantly.

Mercedes-specific knowledge agents provide tailored insights from internal systems, making Direct Chat the central information platform for internal content and cross-functional collaboration. With its intuitive interface, Direct Chat simplifies everyday work in many ways. Whether writing emails and reports or summarising extensive documents, the chatbot offers reliable and efficient support. The application is available in both English and German, thereby fostering collaboration among international teams. More than 10,000 employees use Direct Chat daily as power users.

AI only reaches its full potential when combined with human capabilities. To achieve this, we need expertise, practice, and a willingness to keep learning. Empowering our employees to work confidently with artificial intelligence is a top priority at Mercedes-Benz. We firmly believe that sustainable progress is only possible through deep understanding and responsible use of AI technologies. That’s why we create targeted learning opportunities that enable all employees to upskill – regardless of their prior knowledge and tailored to their specific roles. One concrete example is our AI Learning Journey, which tens of thousands of colleagues have already completed.

At Mercedes-Benz, data protection is a top priority – especially when using advanced technologies like generative AI. Direct Chat was specifically designed to operate within a secure and compliant framework, ensuring that its use aligns with internal data protection policies and all applicable regulations. Employee text inputs are processed anonymously, and no personal or sensitive data is stored or used to train AI models. The application is integrated via the Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, combining the power of large-scale generative AI with Azure’s robust security, privacy and reliability features. All operations are hosted in European data centers, with Mercedes-Benz retaining full control over the underlying IT processes. To further minimise risks, employees are encouraged to use Direct Chat exclusively in a secure environment and to adhere to the clearly defined usage guidelines. his includes, among other things, refraining from entering personalised or internal data and reviewing AI-generated content before use.

The integration of the Azure OpenAI Service into Direct Chat aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s AI principles. From the outset, legal and ethical aspects of AI development and usage were carefully considered, and clear guidelines were defined. As one of the first automotive manufacturers to do so, we established our own AI principles back in 2019: responsible use, explainability, privacy protection, security and reliability.