Signifying the growing trend toward connected vehicle, Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors have entered into a strategic partnership with Vodafone in Europe.

The aim is to provide customers with a fully-connected in-car infotainment and connected car service.

The strategic partnership is designed to help both automakers tap into Vodafone’s technical expertise and provide connected in-car infotainment services to European motorists.

Both Hyundai and Kia will use Vodafone’s IoT network to deploy their proprietary service across Europe, enabling customers to benefit from the latest in new telematics technology.

The new infotainment system will launch on selected Hyundai and Kia new models in Europe from 2019.

The system uses embedded connectivity provided by Vodafone in order to provide vehicle owners with a seamless experience. The services include up-to-the-minute traffic information, parking and location services, vehicle diagnostics, and voice control. The system works in parallel with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to deliver seamless smartphone integration, and access to users’ favourite apps.

“This strategic partnership will enable us to offer many more drivers maximum connectivity at the wheel, supported by a comprehensive European data network. The system will launch across Europe next year with the arrival of upcoming Hyundai and Kia models, meaning customers will have the most accurate and relevant information at their fingertips,” said Jungsik Suh, Senior Vice President of ICT Division at Hyundai Motor Group.

Vodafone’s Director of IoT, Stefano Gastaut, added: “We are proud to be working with both Hyundai and Kia Motors to enhance the driving experience for their customers in Europe. Vodafone has extensive experience in providing connected car solutions to the automotive industry, helping car manufacturers continually innovate their in-car technology and customer experience. We’re delighted to include Hyundai and Kia Motors as partners in this fast-evolving market.”