CES 2018: Kia Adds Google Assistant To Its Infotainment Systems

Kia Motors has made their UVO infotainment systems compatible with the Google Assistant, enabling customers to execute a variety of remote commands.

So far the integration with the Google Assistant is available for models equipped with the UVO system, including the 2018 Niro PHEV, Soul EV, Optima PHEV and the K900 flagship.

Through an UVO agent, customers can set up the Google Assistant or Google Home app, allowing for simple voice commands to access a variety of functions. The new commands include “Tell UVO to start my Soul EV,” or “Tell UVO to lock my Niro.”

The UVO agent offers remote functions such as Remote Start/Stop Engine, Remote Climate Control, Remote Charge Start/Stop, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Lock. Add to that the ability of the Google Assistant to provide real-time answers and activate streaming music services, smart home devices and you got a pretty much seamless experience.

“With more people using smart technology at home and work, it was a natural extension to bring this easy to use and widely adapted platform to the driver’s seat,” said Henry Bzeih, director, connected car & mobility services, strategy & planning, KMA. “With a simple voice command, Kia owners can interface with their vehicles in the same manner they use the Google Assistant in their homes.”