At the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Kia Motors America (KMA) brings a collection of new and future technologies highlighting telematics and infotainment, each focused on creating a safer, more dynamic and efficient driving experience, with an eye on the expanding horizon of connected cars.
The cornerstone of these new technologies is Kia’s UVO (standing for ‘Your Voice’) system, which serves as the catalyst for connectivity between driver and car.
Henry Bzeih, Chief Technology Strategist, KMA, said:
“With UVO, Kia has a strong base to build from in the advancement of telematics and infotainment technology, pushing the boundaries of connectivity and convenience while maintaining safety as a top priority.
Kia’s teams are constantly looking for new and better ways to strengthen the relationship between driver and car. Our real-world approach to in-car technology, coupled with compelling design and premium amenities has the Kia brand moving in new and exciting directions.”
User-Centered Driver concept (UCD)
The UCD concept focuses on safety and an intuitive interface with an innovative multi-sensory design. Keeping the driver’s eyes on the road and hands on the wheel is central to Kia’s approach to in-vehicle technology, as evidenced by the UVO system. The UCD concept remains true to this principle while enhancing functionality, providing a widescreen, 18-inch Head-Up Display (HUD) which offers drivers an augmented-reality snapshot of vital information such as speed, navigation and traffic information. Additionally, the 12.3-inch TFT-LCD cluster presents a 3D view of vital vehicle information, utilising eye-tracking technology to maintain a clear view from various angles.
Developed to allow full use of the vehicle’s navigation services and other driver-controlled operations without sacrificing safety, the UCD concept also includes a hand movement controller. Thanks to advanced infrared light and camera sensors, users can quickly access radio and navigation options with simple hand or finger movements without taking their eyes from the road.
The UCD concept also includes a mobile device wireless charging system. The system’s power is delivered through magnetic induction, which allows the driver to simply set the device on the charging pad without the inconvenience of charging cords.
In-Vehicle Infotainment concept (IVI)
Kia has developed and delivered cutting-edge and user-friendly infotainment technologies for many recent new vehicles releases, including the all-new 2014 Soul – Kia’s urban crossover that was recently launch in the US and Asia and is due in Europe in the Spring.
At this year’s CES, the eye-catching IVI Concept provides a look at Kia’s latest innovations in the area of in-vehicle services. The seamless delivery of content is achieved by a multi-display layout, prominently featuring a 20-inch multi-touch center console display. Information is then synchronised through a portable plug-in tablet or the driver’s own smartphone, providing easy access to a suite of services such as concierge, social networking and parking assist.
Innovative advancements in music-delivery technology are found in the IVI Concept’s “Smart Radio” functions, including the ability to personalise playlists according to the user’s mood or based on five templates for different driving environments, such as summer driving on a coastal road, all delivered via Kia’s proprietary music service.
The development of vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication is demonstrated in the IVI Concept as a series of real-world scenarios. Visual and auditory alerts of drive-route hazards and real-time warnings for potential danger such as a frontal collision and lane departure, as well as current road junction conditions, provide peace of mind for driver and passengers.
Dynamic HD wireless (WiHD) technology enables and optimises connectivity of these various components, including front-seat display and two independently functioning rear-seat entertainment units. This “mirroring” technology allows passengers to enjoy their own music and video experiences while vital information, such as pre-programmed smartphone navigation notifications, is simultaneously provided to the driver.
UVO for EV (Electric Vehicle)
In anticipation of the launch later this year of Kia’s first all-electric vehicle in the U.S. market, the Kia CES display also highlights the enhanced capabilities of Kia’s UVO EV smartphone app with telematics functionality specifically designed for electric vehicles. This unique interactive exhibit, which points to the next production-ready version of the UVO telematics system, provides up-to-the-minute battery-level status, distance to empty, and the ability to search for nearby charging stations. Also, via the downloadable smartphone app, owners can preset charging time and charging level ratios, as well as precondition the vehicle cabin with remote control of HVAC presets.
The Future of UVO
At the heart of Kia’s telematics and infotainment innovations is UVO VR (Voice Recognition) technology. Powering the next generation Kia telematics, this Hybrid VR platform enables users to easily and efficiently perform functions such as dictating messages, selecting their favourite music or asking for directions, all while keeping their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
As early as next year, some 2015 model year Kia vehicles will arrive in the US market with an all-new generation of multimedia suite, including the ability to download additional apps such as the music service, iHeart Radio. The addition of the Sound Hound music recognition app will take in-car music engagement to the next level, and the integration of Yelp® will help Kia owners locate the hottest restaurants and best clubs. Kia’s own UVO-based app store will allow owners to customise their infotainment and telematics experience.
Today and Tomorrow – Kia’s Advanced Technology
Presented as a cross-sectional vehicle display, Kia proudly showcases current and future technology in engaging, interactive style. Featured are 24 different technologies, 10 of which are integrated in current production vehicles such as the recently unveiled K900 rear-drive flagship sedan (known as K9 or Quoris in certain markets outside of the US), including Smart Cruise Control and Around View Monitoring systems.
In addition to the display, detailed video demonstrations of each technological component provide an opportunity to learn more about the projects currently being developed by Kia’s global R&D teams, including advancements in Eco-friendly and multimedia technology such as wireless charging and a water-cooled battery system.
Source; KIA press release
