Polestar and Google are transforming the car user experience with Android Automotive OS

Polestar, the Swedish electric car brand, has announced a new collaboration with Google to showcase the latest innovations in car technology at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024. The partnership will focus on enhancing the user experience, safety, and sustainability of Polestar vehicles, as well as exploring new possibilities for the future of mobility.

Polestar and Google: a long-term partnership

Polestar and Google have been working together since 2017 when Polestar became the first car brand to use Android Automotive OS as the platform for its in-car infotainment system. This system, which is available in the Polestar 2 and the upcoming Polestar 3, allows drivers to access Google services such as Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play directly from the car’s touchscreen without the need for a smartphone.

The Android Automotive OS also enables Polestar to offer over-the-air (OTA) updates, which allow the car to receive new features, improvements, and bug fixes remotely without having to visit a service center. This way, Polestar can ensure that its vehicles are always up to date and offer the best possible performance and functionality.

Polestar and Google at CES 2024

At CES 2024, Polestar and Google will demonstrate some of the new features and capabilities they have developed together, as well as some future projects they are working on. Some of the highlights include:

Digital key: Polestar will introduce a new feature that allows drivers to use their smartphone as a key to unlock, start, and drive their car. The digital key will use ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, which is more secure and accurate than Bluetooth or NFC, to communicate with the car. The digital key will also enable drivers to share access to their car with other trusted users, such as family members or friends, and set preferences for each user, such as seat position, climate control, and music selection.
Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS): Polestar will showcase its new ADAS, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to provide a safer and more comfortable driving experience. The ADAS will use cameras, radars, and sensors to monitor the road, traffic, and driver behavior and provide alerts, warnings, and interventions when needed. The ADAS will also learn from the driver’s habits and preferences and adapt accordingly. For example, the ADAS will be able to recognize the driver’s voice and facial expressions and adjust the car's volume, brightness, and temperature accordingly.
Sustainability dashboard: Polestar will present a new feature that helps drivers to track and reduce their environmental impact. The sustainability dashboard will display information such as the carbon footprint, energy consumption, and recycling rate of the car, as well as tips and suggestions on how to improve them. The sustainability dashboard will also show the carbon offset that Polestar provides for each car, as part of its commitment to become a carbon-neutral company by 2030.
Concept car: Polestar will unveil a new concept car that showcases its vision for the future of mobility. The concept car will be based on the Polestar Precept. This design study was revealed in 2020 and will feature some of the most advanced technologies and materials that Polestar and Google have been developing. The concept car will also demonstrate how Polestar and Google are exploring new ways of integrating the car with the smart home, city, and grid to create a more connected and sustainable lifestyle.

Polestar and Google: a shared vision

Polestar and Google share a common vision of creating a better future for people and the planet through innovation, design, and technology. By collaborating on the development of new car technologies, Polestar and Google aim to provide a more enjoyable, convenient, and responsible driving experience and inspire and challenge the automotive industry to embrace change and progress.

Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath said: “We are very proud of our partnership with Google, which has been a key factor in our success as a young and ambitious car brand. We have created a unique and distinctive user experience that sets us apart from the competition and delights our customers. We are also very excited about the future as we continue to work with Google to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of car technology.”

Google Automotive Partnerships Director Patrick Brady said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Polestar, a company that shares our passion for innovation, design, and sustainability. Polestar has pioneered Android Automotive OS and has shown great leadership and vision in creating a seamless and intuitive user experience. We look forward to showcasing some of the new features and capabilities we have developed together at CES 2024 and continuing our partnership to shape the future of car technology.”