Volvo partners with Google to base the next generation Volvo Sensus on Android

Volvo are partnering with Google to deliver the next generation of their Sensus infotainment and connectivity, with greater flexibility, in the next two years.

Infotainment and connectivity in cars is now as important to many as style and performance, and car makers are getting better at delivering good systems with able Apps and better and better integration with Smartphones.

Now, Volvo has decided that the nest generation of the Sensus Infotainment – already one of the best systems, and improved by the portrait-shaped tablet-like screen – is going to use Google’s Android system for even greater flexibility and function.

That should mean an even better performing setup in Volvos when it arrives in two year’s time, with Volvo owners being able to match their needs with a wide range of Apps, not just from Volvo but from the Google Play Store too.

Henrik Green, Volvo’s R&D VP, said:

We are making an important strategic step with the Google partnership. Google’s platform and services will enhance the user experience by enabling more personalisation possibilities, while Android will offer increased flexibility from a development perspective.

But Volvo owners won’t have to wait a full two years to get a Volvo with a Google input, as their cars will soon be updated with Google Local Search to make finding local stuff so much easier when you’re out and about.

Volvo are planning to reveal full details of the Google Partnership at Google’s I/O tech show on 17 May. And with Android now the OS of choice for 80% of all new Smartphones, it’s a shrewd move by Volvo.