GM interns explore Detroit with Google Gemini

2026-08-03


            

By Mirabel Chin, GM intern

 

The General Motors Global Communications interns hit the road with an AI assistant riding shotgun. Here’s what we learned.

The four of us — myself, Abbi Gabli, Kendall McCardell, and Abby Vincler — recently turned downtown Detroit into our test track for an in-vehicle experience with available Google Gemini1, spending a day exploring the city in a Chevrolet Blazer EV SS.

We kicked off our journey by asking Gemini to remind us where we parked the car, then we hopped in to drive to our first stop, a local coffee shop. On the way, we experimented with Gemini’s small-talk skills by asking if it preferred oat milk or almond milk—Gemini politely reminded us it doesn’t drink milk.

While heading to our next stop, Valade Park, we asked Gemini to build a road trip playlist! The AI assistant was up for the task, curating the perfect soundtrack for our adventure. Upon arrival at the park, we showcased our strategic planning abilities with a game of life-sized chess.

At our last stop, we displayed compromise on our pizza choices, and Gemini even gave its input that pepperoni and jalapeños sounded like a good combo!

Throughout the drive, Gemini responded naturally to our conversational questions, handled follow-ups without needing rigid commands, and even delivered a few well-timed jokes. When our plans shifted, Gemini quickly rerouted us. It suggested playlists that matched the mood, and answered questions about the neighborhoods and landmarks we visited, demonstrating how AI can make time in the car feel more personal and intuitive.

This experience highlighted how software and hardware work together seamlessly in GM vehicles. With Gemini taking care of the practical parts of navigating and planning, we could focus on enjoying the city, showing how in-vehicle AI can make travel feel more connected, more tailored and more enjoyable.

Our day in Detroit ultimately showcased that everyday tasks in the car are so much easier with Gemini — whether it’s help with finding the next destination, setting the soundtrack, or learning a quick fact on the journey. For GM, it’s a glimpse of where the driving experience is headed: More conversational, more intuitive and increasingly shaped by smart, helpful software that supports customers in the moments that matter most.

1Features may differ depending on subscription, and results may vary. Some connected apps require setup. Compatibility and availability varies. 18+.

By Mirabel Chin, GM intern

GM interns with a Chevrolet Blazer EV SS
From left to right: GM interns Abbi Gabli, Mirabel Chin, Kendall McCardell, and Abby Vincler -- and of course, the Chevrolet Blazer EV SS.

The General Motors Global Communications interns hit the road with an AI assistant riding shotgun. Here’s what we learned.

The four of us — myself, Abbi Gabli, Kendall McCardell, and Abby Vincler — recently turned downtown Detroit into our test track for an in-vehicle experience with available Google Gemini1, spending a day exploring the city in a Chevrolet Blazer EV SS.

We kicked off our journey by asking Gemini to remind us where we parked the car, then we hopped in to drive to our first stop, a local coffee shop. On the way, we experimented with Gemini’s small-talk skills by asking if it preferred oat milk or almond milk—Gemini politely reminded us it doesn’t drink milk.

While heading to our next stop, Valade Park, we asked Gemini to build a road trip playlist! The AI assistant was up for the task, curating the perfect soundtrack for our adventure. Upon arrival at the park, we showcased our strategic planning abilities with a game of life-sized chess.

At our last stop, we displayed compromise on our pizza choices, and Gemini even gave its input that pepperoni and jalapeños sounded like a good combo!


Throughout the drive, Gemini responded naturally to our conversational questions, handled follow-ups without needing rigid commands, and even delivered a few well-timed jokes. When our plans shifted, Gemini quickly rerouted us. It suggested playlists that matched the mood, and answered questions about the neighborhoods and landmarks we visited, demonstrating how AI can make time in the car feel more personal and intuitive.

This experience highlighted how software and hardware work together seamlessly in GM vehicles. With Gemini taking care of the practical parts of navigating and planning, we could focus on enjoying the city, showing how in-vehicle AI can make travel feel more connected, more tailored and more enjoyable.

Our day in Detroit ultimately showcased that everyday tasks in the car are so much easier with Gemini — whether it’s help with finding the next destination, setting the soundtrack, or learning a quick fact on the journey. For GM, it’s a glimpse of where the driving experience is headed: More conversational, more intuitive and increasingly shaped by smart, helpful software that supports customers in the moments that matter most.

1Features may differ depending on subscription, and results may vary. Some connected apps require setup. Compatibility and availability varies. 18+.