Volvo's floating center stack in the V40

Volvo's floating center stack in the V40

Volvo has selected electronics giant Mitsubishi Electric, a subsidiary of the same group that owns the automaker Mitsubishi, to help develop next-generation infotainment systems for use in its future cars.

Mitsubishi Electric will develop the central module and be the main supplier for the overall infotainment system, which Volvo will feature under its Sensus brand.

Sensus is Volvo’s all-in-one onboard operating system that brings together infotainment, navigation, car settings and other features and functionalities.

Sensus is also the interface that promotes communication with the car, connecting it to the driver's digital world--and the new central module being developed with Mitsubishi Electric will be a core component in this new level of interactivity.

Volvo is yet to announce any specific features of its next-generation infotainment system but promises it will be provide user-friendly services and connectivity features. Expect to see improved integration with mobile devices, new and improved traffic and weather updates, and more online services available in the car.

The first models we’re likely to see the next-generation infotainment system fitted to are the 2014 Volvo XC90 and eventual replacement for the S80 flagship sedan. Importantly, the new system will be designed to fit in with Volvo’s trademark floating center stack dashboard design.

Speaking at today’s announcement, Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby said, “We are very happy to have Mitsubishi Electric Corporation as a partner. Their world-leading knowledge and experience will bring the infotainment system in our cars up to an entirely new level."