Kia and Hyundai EVs to get smartphone performance control tech

Future Kia and Hyundai vehicles will feature technology which allows drivers to adjust seven major performance features through their smartphones.

The application provides optimised settings for a designated destination by analysing the remaining distance and electric energy requirement

The technology will enable drivers to fine-tune settings ranging from maximum torque output for the motor, ignition, acceleration/deceleration, regenerative braking capacity, maximum speed limit, responsiveness, and energy use on climate control.

The technology will mean that drivers can choose whether to prioritise range – by using optimised settings to ensure they have enough range to get to a particular destination – or sportier driving.

It could also could prove particularly convenient for drivers of rental/carsharing vehicles, enabling users to quickly adopt their preferred set-up by downloading their profile from the server with the reassurance that their information is being protected by blockchain technology.

“As Hyundai Motor Group is planning to deploy 44 eco-friendly models by year 2025, including 23 electric vehicles, we see the potential of technologies and services inherent in non-combustion vehicles,” said research fellow JeongSoo Eo from Hyundai Motor Group. “By developing paradigm-shifting mobility technology like this one, we will continue to strive to improve user experience for electric vehicles customised to individual preferences.”

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Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.