Volvo and Google bring Gemini AI to the cabin

Volvo Cars and Google have begun rolling out Google Gemini to Volvo vehicles, replacing fixed voice commands with a natural-language assistant that understands conversation, context and driver intent. The rollout starts with US customers and will scale across the country and into other markets in the weeks ahead, covering Volvo models dating back to 2020.

Gemini handles tasks such as trip planning, finding stops along a route via Google Maps, summarising and replying to text messages, and controlling streaming media through natural conversation. Drivers can ask follow-up questions on a single topic without restating the original request.

Volvo was selected as Google’s lead development partner for new in-car features in 2025. The Gemini rollout follows over-the-air updates that Volvo says have brought new software experiences to cars already on the road.

In a statement, Alwin Bakkenes, Head of Global Software Engineering at Volvo Cars, said: “Bringing Google Gemini into our cars is about making everyday interactions more natural, more helpful and less distracting. It pushes the boundaries on what is possible inside a Volvo.”

Patrick Brady, Vice President of Android for Cars at Google, added: “We’re excited to show how Google Gemini can elevate the quality of life of Volvo drivers. Drivers will enjoy cutting-edge AI that reduces complexity, keeps their attention where it matters most, and makes every drive a little easier.”

Source: Volvo Cars