In a bold step toward redefining the connected driving experience, Volvo Cars has announced an expanded partnership with Google™, aimed at fast-tracking the integration of Android Automotive OS innovations in its vehicles. A centrepiece of this renewed alliance is the rollout of Google Gemini™, Google’s next-generation conversational AI, showcased in the flagship Volvo EX90 at Google I/O 2025.
This collaboration not only positions Volvo as one of the first automotive brands to integrate Gemini into its models with Google built-in but also establishes Volvo Cars as a reference hardware platform for Android development — giving Volvo drivers early access to upcoming Android features, long before they become industry standard.
Smarter, Safer Conversations with Gemini
Replacing the current Google Assistant, Gemini is set to debut in Volvo vehicles later this year, ushering in a more intuitive and natural way for drivers to interact with their cars. With conversational AI at its core, Gemini will understand complex commands, enabling drivers to draft messages, translate text, look up travel information, or consult the owner’s manual — all hands-free, and in natural language.
This seamless interaction isn’t just about convenience. It’s a leap forward in driver safety, with Gemini designed to minimise cognitive load and reduce distractions, allowing drivers to stay more focused on the road while staying connected.
“We’re excited to deepen this partnership, accelerating the pace of innovation that will not only improve the driving experience for Volvo customers but also set new benchmarks for the automotive industry,” said Patrick Brady, Vice President of Android for Cars at Google.
Volvo Cars: A Testbed for the Future
By designating Volvo as a reference hardware platform, Google will now develop and refine Android for Cars features directly on Volvo vehicles. This allows for deeper integration and rapid iteration of connected services — with Volvo customers reaping the rewards first.
This move aligns with Volvo’s ongoing digital transformation and its pursuit of delivering a more human-centric, tech-forward driving experience.
“We strive to deliver human-centric technology, and a stunning customer experience is an essential part of this,” said Alwin Bakkenes, Head of Global Software Engineering at Volvo Cars. “With our expanding partnership, we’re collaborating on cutting-edge solutions that shape the future of connected cars.”
A Milestone in the Evolution of Connected Cars
Volvo’s collaboration with Google stretches back years, with the brand being one of the first to embed Google services directly into its vehicles. This next chapter builds on that legacy, moving beyond app integration to deeper co-development — bringing Volvo drivers closer to the forefront of digital innovation.
As automakers increasingly evolve into software-first companies, this partnership represents a significant milestone — not just for Volvo customers, but for the future of in-car artificial intelligence, where smart, safe, and seamless experiences are not the exception but the standard.
