Volvo confirms inclusion of Android Automotive OS in XC 40 EV

KUALA LUMPUR: Just a week before the release of Volvo’s first-ever electric vehicle, namely XC 40 EV, the carmaker has confirmed that the car would get a new infotainment system, which features Google’s new embedded Android Automotive software.

It means, the new Volvo XC 40 EV comes with inbuilt features like Google Assistant and the Google Maps application. So, there is no need for an Android smartphone as the infotainment system will connect to the Play Store, and the owners can easily download the application from there. Also, the applications are approved for automotive use.

The chief technology officer of Volvo cars, Henrik Green, said, “We are finally giving you the same experience in your car that you’re used to on your phone, but adapted for safe interaction while driving. And by introducing over-the-air updates for everything from maintenance to completely new features, the car can stay as fresh as your other digital products, always with the latest and greatest features.”

There is another feature, namely Volvo On Call connected service, which allows monitoring remotely about the electric vehicle’s charging levels and battery status. There are quality features in the core functions like pre-conditioning, car-sharing via digital key, a remote locking/unlocking and vehicle location identification.

From the images of the infotainment system, one can quickly get a clear view of the cabin. And it looks like the new cabin is similar to the regular XC40. However, only the infotainment system mentioned above and a new digital instrument cluster display are notable differences. More information will be provided regarding the electric XC40 when it makes its official debut, which is scheduled on October 16.

Also Read: Volvo XC40 - First impression