Vodafone Idea, Kia Motors Team Up For Connected Car Services

Vodafone Idea, the country’s largest telecom operator by subscribers, and Korean automobile company Kia Motors have signed a partnership for the India debut of UVO connected car system with the new Kia Seltos, the operator said in a statement on Monday.

The partnership between the companies will enable Kia Seltos to function with advanced connected car functionality, the statement said.

Vodafone Idea’s ecosystem of Internet of Things will boost Kia through integration of e-SIMs with voice, 3G/4G data, SMS, and application programming interface.

“Connected Cars, once an aspirational concept in the Indian market, has become a reality now. As industry and consumers adapt to this digital disruption, it gives Vodafone Idea Business Services an opportunity to introduce end-to-end IoT solutions to our automobile partners,” Nick Gliddon, Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Vodafone Idea Limited, said.

Simply put, a connected car has seamless connectivity to the internet which enables a host of features which can make driving an easier and safer experience.

“Kia Motors India aims to enhance the in-cabin and driving experience of our customers and we are confident that this partnership will enable them to be able to fully experience the array of connected and interactive features provided by UVO connect seamlessly, anywhere and everywhere,” Manohar Bhat, Vice President and Head – Sales and Marketing, Kia Motors India said.

The mid-SUV, Kia Seltos will come with 37 smart features under five separate sections – navigation, safety and security, vehicle management, remote control and convenience.

The smart features include, AI voice command, stolen vehicle tracking and immobilization, auto collision notification, SOS-emergency assistance, remote engine start and stop, remotely operated air purifier and in-car air quality monitor. It will also come equipped with safety alerts for geo fence, time fence, speed and valet.―Livemint