Hyundai and Kia are turning to Google to provide mapping for its vehicle navi systems, beginning with the 2014 Kia Sorento that we'll see early this year.
The Korean automaker announced Wednesday that it will integrate Google Maps, Google local search and Google’s send-to-car (which lets you send directions to your GPS remotely) services to its Hyundai Blue Link and second-generation Kia UVO eServices infotainment system. Drivers also will be able to use Google voice search.
BlueLink and UVO already offer Bluetooth calling, roadside assistance and smartphone integration that lets you do things like unlock your car remotely. Looking ahead, Hyundai is developing an embedded NFC tag that would all but render your car keys obsolete by letting you use your phone to open the doors and start the engine with the swipe of a finger.
The Google tie-in comes as automakers place increasing emphasis on bringing the the Internet into our cars, and shows how battle lines are being drawn in the automotive OS war. We've already seen Chevrolet bring Apple's Siri voice-recognition system to the Spark, and Google is working alongside Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Tesla Motors in using Google Maps technology in their telematic systems.
“We’re always looking for ways to make it easier for people to discover more relevant information to help them make informed choices, whether that's where to go for a coffee, or where to take dry cleaning,” Tarun Bhatnagar, head of enterprise geo at Google, said in a statement. “It’s great to see that more drivers now have access to fresh, web-based content while on the go."
