General Motors has announced plans to integrate Google’s conversational Gemini AI assistant into its full vehicle lineup starting next year. The automaker revealed at its GM Forward event in New York that the advanced AI will be preinstalled in both gasoline and electric cars equipped with the Android Automotive operating system.

The system is designed to tap into vehicle data to provide drivers with alerts, pre-condition the car’s climate, and explain driving features. By integrating Gemini directly, GM positions itself as an early adopter in the automotive space, placing its updated voice recognition system in direct competition with AI assistants from Tesla and Mercedes.

An Enhanced In-Car Experience

According to GM, the integration aims to solve common frustrations with existing voice assistants. Dave Richardson, GM’s Vice President of Software and Services, explained that large language models (LLMs) like Gemini are better at understanding different accents and conversational nuances. The system’s ability to recall the context of previous conversations is expected to provide a more natural and reliable user experience.

The Gemini-powered assistant will handle tasks like drafting messages, preparing for meetings, and planning complex routes with multiple stops. It will also have internet access to answer specific questions, though Richardson emphasized that drivers will maintain control over what information the assistant can access.

A Glimpse into GM’s Autonomous Future

The new voice assistant is part of a broader strategy to transform GM vehicles into intelligent platforms. The technology will connect to cars through GM’s in-car concierge, OnStar, and will be available as an over-the-air update for OnStar-equipped models produced since 2015.

Looking further ahead, CEO Mary Barra announced the company is developing a new “hands-off, eyes-off” driver-assist system slated for a 2028 debut. This next-generation Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) will launch with the Cadillac Escalade IQ and will be powered by a new centralized computing platform.

Sterling Anderson, GM’s Chief Product Officer, stated that the company’s vision is to create a car that actively “knows and looks out for its driver.” He noted that future vehicles will use lidar (light detection and ranging) systems to significantly improve their environmental awareness, a key step toward making autonomous driving and safer roads a reality.