Many cars now have AI-powered voice assistants, but Mercedes knows their dependence on the cloud can make them unreliable. It just partnered with Liquid AI to bring more voice control on-device, ideally giving you faster interactions that do more to respect your privacy.
Liquid AI’s smaller, more efficient AI foundation models are designed for on-device use. That limits the need for the cloud, reducing lag time for requests and providing a “more consistent experience” while you’re driving, according to Mercedes. They also improve privacy and independence, as the data is less likely to leave your car.
The partnership is built on the in-house Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) and will expand to the MBUX Virtual Assistant.
Which Mercedes cars will get the upgraded AI
You’ll need one from the past few years
Mercedes aims to roll out the Liquid AI technology in the U.S. and Canada in the second half of 2026, and will require that you have a relatively recent car to upgrade.
Among third-generation cars, the 2024 model year CLE and E-Class sedans are the oldest models that qualify. Combustion engine versions of the 2025 and newer C-Class sedan and GLC SUV will also qualify, as will 2026 and newer GT and SL coupes.
You’ll see much wider support among fourth-generation vehicles. The 2026 electric CLA and its 2027 combustion counterpart are eligible, as is the 2027 electric C-Class. The 2027 versions of the EQS sedan, electric GLC, GLE, GLS, S-Class, and AMG EA GT 4-door are similarly compatible. You can find the full compatibility list below:
- 2024+ CLE
- 2024+ E-Class
- 2025+ C-Class (combustion)
- 2025+ GLC (combustion)
- 2026+ GT 2-door
- 2026+ SL
- 2026+ CLA (electric)
- 2027+ CLA (combustion)
- 2027+ C-Class (combustion and electric)
- 2027+ GLB (combustion and electric)
- 2027+ GLC (electric)
- 2027 EQS sedan
- 2027 GLE
- 2027 GLS
- 2027 S-Class
- 2027 AMG EA GT 4-door
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A Mercedes badge without the usual sticker shock.
Is Mercedes AI better than in other cars
The right driving conditions could give it an edge
Advanced AI is now relatively commonplace in cars. BMW models use Amazon’s Alexa+, for instance, and phone integrations like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are providing on-the-road access to tools like Google’s Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. However, these routinely rely on the cloud due to their size and computing demands.
Mercedes’ approach could be particularly helpful in circumstances when you can’t afford to wait for the cloud, such as asking for directions right as you approach an intersection. It could be more important still if you’re in an area where data is flaky 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-up with Liquid AI could ease your mind simply by localizing more requests. There’s less risk of a hacker or surveillance agency intercepting your commands.
The U.S. CLOUD Act requires that American companies give authorities data 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.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
Stephan is the sports journalist for the Maple Grove Report.
