Geely makes a leap forward in Europe: its cars will have Google Maps, Google Play, and Gemini

Chinese manufacturers have been proving for years that they can compete with traditional brands in areas such as technology, equipment, or cost-performance. However, there is one area where they still have a long way to go, especially when entering foreign markets: the multimedia system. Geely seems to have taken this seriously and is preparing changes that could make its cars much more attractive to European customers.

The Chinese company has announced a strategic partnership with Google to integrate its services directly into the multimedia systems of its cars for international markets. This move will allow drivers to use tools they already rely on in their phones, without the need to connect their smartphones to the car.

The news came to light today when Geely Holding Group officially confirmed its new partnership with Google. According to Shen Yuan, the group’s technology director, the goal is to develop a digital ecosystem that simplifies the driver’s life and offers a more familiar, intuitive, and straightforward experience.

Key features will include integration with Google Maps, the Google Play app store, and Google’s artificial intelligence assistant, Gemini. This will allow drivers to use Google Maps directly on the car’s screen, search for destinations, find nearby charging stations, or download compatible apps without relying on external solutions.

The arrival of Gemini also opens the door to a more natural interaction with the multimedia system. Instead of navigating through different menus to perform specific functions, drivers will be able to use voice commands to request information or carry out daily tasks. This is a particularly interesting development in cars that increasingly incorporate more features, yet which are not always easy to use.

Geely relies on Google to enhance the experience of its cars in Europe

The first Geely cars equipped with these integrated services will reach international markets in the second half of 2027. So far, the manufacturer has not confirmed which model will debut this feature, nor has it specified which markets will initially receive these new functions. What it has stated is that they will be available in countries where Google services can be used officially.

This development also holds significant implications for Europe. Many Chinese manufacturers enter our market with multimedia systems originally developed for China, where Google services are not available in the same way as in the West. This forces them to adapt their platforms, sometimes resulting in European customers having less comprehensive solutions or navigation apps that are not fully satisfactory.

Through this partnership, Geely will be able to offer an experience similar to that already enjoyed by millions of Android users. The ability to use Google Maps natively, download apps from Google Play, or interact with Gemini can become a significant selling point, especially for buyers who value both technology features and performance or range.

In addition, this is not an isolated move. Zeekr, one of the group’s luxury brands, had already announced a partnership with AirConsole to integrate video games into its cars. Later, in April 2026, it also signed an agreement with 3 Screen Solutions to develop an entertainment platform based on Android Automotive OS.

This strategy shows that Geely is working to tailor its cars to the preferences of international customers. The group is expanding its presence outside China, with brands such as Geely, Zeekr, Lynk & Co, Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and Smart, along with other companies in its portfolio.

It should be clarified, however, that this announcement does not mean all models from these brands will automatically include the new services. Geely has yet to determine the scope of implementation or which vehicles will receive this technology. It remains unclear whether some current models can access it through updates.

In any case, this partnership represents an important step for the Chinese manufacturer. Competition in electric cars is no longer limited to offering greater range, faster charging times, or more competitive prices. The multimedia system and user-friendliness have also become decisive factors, and Geely wants to ensure its future models can compete in this area using one of the world’s most well-known digital platforms.