Volvo and Google partner for Android-based infotainment system

This new system will go far beyond the current capabilities of Android Auto, setting Volvo apart from the pack. A large number of currently available apps can be natively integrated straight into the car. It will also increase the infotainment system's overall speed and flexibility.

Those apps can be created by Google, Volvo, or a third-party developer and can be installed and updated without having to link to a smartphone. Henrik Green, Senior Vice President Research & Development at Volvo Car Group, says bringing the familiar feel of Android OS to cars was an important factor in partnering with Google. Like current Volvos, the new system will retain Apple CarPlay.

More details of the partnership will be revealed later this week at Google's annual tech show, Google I/O.