Hyundai says that its newly released Elantra models equipped with the Limited and SEL with Premium Package trim levels will feature an enhanced natural language voice recognition system for feature control.
The interface includes Speech-to-Meaning and Deep Meaning Understanding technologies powered by Houndify (an AI-powered voice interface), claimed to deliver unprecedented speed and accuracy in voice recognition and responses, and an ability to remember context, such as the user’s location, to support natural interactions.
Using their normal voice, occupants will be able to control the following functions:
- Climate on/off
- Air-conditioner on/off
- Heat on/off
- Fan speed
- Defrost on
- Set fan to face, feet, or face and feet
- Defrost on and set fan to feet
- Warm up/cool down
- Turn on/off heated seats (driver/passenger)
- Set heated seat levels 1, 2 or 3 (driver/passenger)
- Rear-window defroster on/off
- And additional functions
To activate controls, all the driver has to do is use a push button on the steering wheel and say the command. Simple commands include, “Turn the air-conditioner on”, “Set the fan to my face”, and “Turn on my heated seat”. The system can also handle other requests like, “What is the temperature in St. Louis?”, “When is Mother’s Day?” or “Find me a coffee shop”.
The Elantra will also feature two 10.25in screens under a single glass display. The cluster has different views: utility, driver assistance and navigation. The navigation system includes a bird’s-eye view in navigation maps, and drivers will be able to access connected routing. This provides multiple navigation options and real-time route updates. Hyundai notes that server-based routing makes the onboard navigation experience similar to current smartphone navigation apps.
