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Kia and Google have
reached a deal to allow Google Maps and Places to be installed into the
UVO eServices telematics system so drivers will have access to the map
application even if they don’t have their smartphones with them.
Kia Motors America will have it installed into the 2014 Sorento for
driving direction and POI locations. Drivers will be able to send a
destination of POI to their car system from their smartphone, allowing
them the option of planning their travels ahead of time and storing the
information. They will also be able to find Kia dealers and control the
navigation system with voice commands.
After the Sorento, other models will get the Google system.
The popularity of Google Maps makes this a win-win situation for both
companies. Users will get the same ease-of-use that they have always
known with the map system and directions they can trust.
Hyundai
will join Kia in using the popular map system, but it doesn’t say when
or which models will have access. Like Kia, it will use voice for
searches and allow drivers to send the information to their car system
from their smartphones. Google already has deals with Audi, Tesla, and
Daimier, but it had not moved into mainstream car manufacturers who
preferred to rely on their own integrated system.
The UVO app will be available on the iPhone when it is first added
into the vehicles and Android will get it soon after. This app also
allows hands-free mobile phone calls and music.
The UVO app also reminds drivers where they parked their car should they forget by sending the location to their phone.
The partnership between Google Maps and Kia promises to expand
Google’s popularity from the smartphone into other areas. Since Google
is already testing driverless cars, one has to wonder what other
innovations will partner it with auto manufacturers.
