South Korean vehicle manufacturer Kia has announced the new name of its high-tech in-car and app-based telematics system. Previously called UVO Connect, the system is now named Kia Connect and has been developed to enhance vehicle functionality, connectivity and user control.
“By renaming our onboard and app-based telematics system Kia Connect, we are making it clear to customers that its features are there to provide a seamless connection between owner, vehicle and environment,” commented Jason Jeong, president of Kia Europe and Kia Connect. “By taking advantage of Kia Connect’s comprehensive suite of technologies, customers can look forward to stress-free journeys like never before.”
Several onboard technologies can be accessed through the vehicle’s touchscreen, such as Kia Connect’s Online Navigation, which uses historical and cloud-based real-time data to predict traffic levels more accurately.
Furthermore, users of the system can access Kia Connect Live Services, a suite of ‘best-in-class’ data providers that give drivers and passengers information about traffic, parking availability and cost, locations and pricing for fuel stations and EV charging points, and weather forecasts. It also enables online POI searching and provides speed camera information in some markets.
Via the Kia Connect app, users can remotely access vehicle information on a smartphone, such as trip data and statistics, vehicle location and vehicle lock status. Owners of EVs can set climate control levels, view charging status, plan smart charging schedules and check range radius based on the vehicle’s remaining charge.
Additionally, vehicle settings can be checked and changed directly from a smartphone, including radio, Bluetooth and navigation preferences. Upon turning on the ignition, customers’ previously saved preferred settings are instantly available. Other functions of the app include last-mile navigation and valet parking mode.
Kia Connect will be rolled out across the company’s European line-up over the next few months.
