The Volvo XC40 teams up with Google to bring infotainment systems to the electric model

The Volvo XC40 will be the fully electric car arriving shortly. And to make it an appealing car for buyers, the brand wants the driving experience to be truly impressive. Since that experience is not only about driving, but also about all the services that make time behind the wheel enjoyable, the Swedish manufacturer has reached an agreement with Google to add several of its services to the infotainment system.

The system in the Volvo XC60 is based on Android, but adds several services such as Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play Store. This is nothing unusual, since Volvo and Google have been collaborating over recent years on the development of this type of system, so it was only logical that they would eventually end up working together on one of the models, enhancing the services offered.

The Volvo XC60 integrates the Android Automotive OS platform, which includes all of these services and can be updated remotely through a wireless internet connection. In addition to the technology company’s own applications, the infotainment system will host applications offered by other developers, who use Google’s open source code to create automotive apps.

Through Google Play Store, users can access music and social media apps that have been adapted for use in the in-car system. Google Assistant offers voice recognition to adjust the temperature, request a route, play music or handle anything else related to the infotainment system.

This allows interaction with the system without taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road, which contributes to safety while driving. To round out the usefulness of this system, Google Assistant will also connect with devices integrated into Google Home, so a voice command can turn on the heating at home and other connected devices.

Volvo will also provide applications and software for use with this system, such as Volvo on Call and others that it will develop and present in the near future. With this technological addition, the electric Volvo XC40 will be a fully connected car with all the advantages that Google offers on its platform.

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverVolvo XC4011 versions · from 42,800 €