Google has announced Volvo Cars as the lead development partner for its Android automotive software, a move the Swedish carmaker says will give its customers access to cutting-edge features well ahead of rivals in the auto industry.

The expanded partnership was revealed on Wednesday during Google’s annual I/O developer conference in Mountain View, California. Under the new arrangement, engineers from Google will test the latest Android software directly in Volvo vehicles to speed up real-world feedback and deployment.

“We’re going to be able to be fast in bringing new capabilities, new features and new experiences to our customers,” said Alwin Bakkenes, Volvo’s head of global software engineering, in an interview. “This really gives us an edge in building fantastic customer experiences.”

While Volvo and Google have collaborated for over a decade, the strengthened relationship marks a significant step forward. Bakkenes explained that by embedding Google engineers in the development process, Volvo can leapfrog industry norms in software integration.

He noted that the automotive industry typically lags about two Android versions behind mobile phones. “That means things you can do on your mobile phone, in many cases you cannot do in the car,” he said.

Currently, Volvo vehicles run on Android 13, but at the I/O event, the company showcased its EX90 electric SUV operating on Android 15—the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system. Volvo confirmed that Android 15 will be rolled out to production models later this year.

“Others might have to wait two years to get” that latest version of Android, Bakkenes said, emphasising the competitive advantage Volvo now holds.

The EX90 was also used to demonstrate Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence model, which is set to be integrated into Volvo cars equipped with Google built-in. The AI-powered assistant promises a more seamless, intuitive experience for drivers.

Bakkenes described how Gemini could, for example, search a user’s emails or messages to find a destination, eliminating the need to manually input information. “Or drivers can ask Gemini to find recipes and then put a shopping list on their phone,” he added. “It’s about creating a human-centric experience.”

With Volvo accelerating its digital capabilities through this deepened collaboration, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of connected car technology in an increasingly software-defined industry.

Boluwatife Enome

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