Volvo has detailed the infotainment system in its upcoming electric XC40 ahead of the car's unveiling next week.
The firm claims the system, designed in partnership with Google and powered by Android, offers "unprecedented personalisation" and "improved levels of intuitiveness", courtesy of inbuilt Google features. The internet giant's Maps, Assistant and Play Store functions are included. The electric small SUV is also the first Volvo model to be capable of wireless software updates.
The system is compatible with voice control, while Google's mapping software will offer live traffic updates and alternative route and charging station suggestions. The software will also improve the capabilities of the car's advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) by providing live speed limit and hazard warnings.
Volvo's chief technology officer, Henrik Green, said: "We're 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."
Volvo recently released the first teaser sketches of the electric Volvo XC40, which is the first step in a plan for more than 50% of the firm's sales volume to be fully electric by 2025. It's focused on producing electric versions of its existing models, rather than developing bespoke EVs like rivals such as Volkswagen.
Despite that, Volvo has said the electric XC40 will feature a number of design changes to differentiate itself from combustion-engined versions, partly due to the electric powertrain not requiring a large grille to cool the engine.
A sketch of the front of the car shows that, as with other EVs, the grille will be replaced by a covered front fascia, which Volvo says will be used to package the sensors for the ADAS. A rear sketch shows that, unlike the plug-in hybrid XC40, which has its charging point located on the front nearside wing, the EV's port will be located on the rear pillar where a fuel filler would normally be.
Robin Page, Volvo’s design boss, said the electric XC40's design would be “even sleeker and more modern” than that of the regular model. He added: “Without the need for a grille, we have created an even cleaner and more modern face, while the absence of tailpipes does the same at the rear.
“This is the approach we will explore more and more as we continue down the road of electrification.”
Volvo has also revealed the EV will feature a "brand new driver interface" that has been developed for its electric cars. It will also be offered with two new 19in and 20in wheel options and in eight paint colours. The interior will feature new "sporty styling details" and carpets made from recycled materials.
The electric XC40 will also feature a small, 30-litre front storage space – also known as a ‘frunk’ – under the bonnet in the space freed up by the absence of a combustion engine.
The XC40 is one of Volvo's most popular models, and the electric version will be revealed on 16 October. While few technical details of the model have been given, it will follow the EV trend, with motors mounted at the front and rear and the battery located under the floor.
