Mahindra Vehicles to Offer Google’s Android System

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. is India's first carmaker to announce it will offer Google Inc.'s Android Auto smartphone interface.

Mahindra will first offer the system in its Scorpio small SUV and XUV 500 midsize crossover, then expand to other models. The company did not provide a timetable.

Android Auto enables an Android smartphone to link to the vehicle's infotainment system. Drivers can then use voice commands or buttons on the steering wheel to access several of the phone's apps and display them on the vehicle's infotainment screen.

The system can be used to play music, make and receive hands-free phone calls and view navigation maps. The technology also can read incoming text messages to the driver and accept and send driver-dictated messages.

Mahindra's move follows similar announcements over the past week by General Motors, Hyundai, Mitsubishi and Opel. Ford, Honda and Volkswagen are among other carmakers expected to offer Android Auto within a year. The companies also expect to offer Apple Inc.'s similar CarPlay system for iPhone users.