Volvo Cars has become the first in the automotive industry to install Google Gemini in its cars, allowing drivers of Volvo cars with Google built-in to be among the first to benefit from the power of the latest conversational AI technology.
Volvo and Google announced their expanded partnership on Wednesday, May 21, to more rapidly deliver the latest Android Automotive OS innovations, including Google Gemini, to customers. The companies demonstrated together at Google I/O 2025 in a Volvo EX90.
“For years, Google and Volvo Cars have collaborated closely to bring cutting-edge technology to connected cars,” said Patrick Brady, Vice President of Android for Cars, Google. “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.”
With this new development, Gemini will replace the current Google Assistant in Volvo cars with Google built-in later this year. This feature allows drivers to communicate naturally, craft messages, translate them into another language, ask questions, and learn specific destination details. This natural conversation can reduce cognitive load, allowing drivers to stay focused on driving and minimize distractions for everyone onboard.
Volvo Cars has now become a reference hardware platform for Android development work. Google will use Volvo Cars as a lead development partner for new features and updates, ensuring Volvo drivers are the first to enjoy the latest Android features and performance enhancements. This partnership will accelerate advancements in the connected car space for the entire automotive industry and drivers worldwide.
Volvo vehicles currently operate using Android 13, but at Google’s I/O annual developer conference underway in Mountain View, California, the two companies are demonstrating Volvo’s flagship EX90 electric SUV running on Android 15 – the latest version of Google’s mobile operating system – which will roll out in production models later this year.
According to Alwin Bakkenes, head of global software engineering at Volvo Cars, the company is partnering with Google to deliver human-centric technology and enhance customer experience. The partnership allows Volvo to incorporate the latest features from the leading consumer ecosystem into its products, aiming to shape the future of connected cars with cutting-edge solutions.
