Kia has launched its latest update, which includes a new AI voice assistant for its all-electric SUV the EV3, for its Model Year 22 and above vehicles. The features delivered in this new update include improvements to voice control, connectivity, entertainment, and navigation, with Kia continuing its mission to enhance the driver and passenger experience.
The update delivers further features intended specifically for the EV3, including a range of entertainment packages, YouTube streaming, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and an AI assistant, among further new additions and enhancements. For all telematics-equipped Kia vehicles from MY22 onwards, the navigation camera alarm now utilizes information from TomTom. Wireless technology is used to download the latest available software. Once the download is complete, and the ignition is turned off, a confirmation window appears on the infotainment screen for the installation to start.
For the EV3, EV6, EV9, and Sorento models, the new update includes a new ‘increase temperature’ command that raises the in-cabin temperature by 2°C, while a ‘lower temperature’ command conversely reduces the temperature by 2°C. A new voice command similarly allows for the volume to be controlled, with increases and decreases based on percentages.
These models also gain an enhanced EV route planner that will allow users to change the target State of Charge at destination and at charging station, alongside the possibility to use Kia’s AI assistant (EV3 only) to navigate and possibility to see the EV Route Planner on the split screen. These enhancements are delivered alongside new additions to the navigation system, such as the ability to share the vehicle’s current location, as well as information on waypoints and destination information. These vehicles, altogether, benefit from a new Emergency Vehicle Alert provides an alert service when emergency vehicles (such as ambulances) are approaching.
Kia’s EV3-specific upgrades include a new Wi-Fi hotspot, which enables passengers to connect their devices to the internet directly through the vehicle (available as a paid option). A new range of entertainment packages, including Netflix, Disney+, karaoke and gaming, are together aimed at providing customers with a richer in-car entertainment experience (available as a paid option), while a new YouTube Home Card application offers direct access to the video streaming service from the vehicle’s home screen (available as a paid option). Though, at the height of the EV3’s new additions is the Kia AI assistant. Powered by generative AI, it understands natural language and allows for more intuitive interaction, to assist with trip planning, vehicle control, entertainment and more (free trial included in all EV3).
While detailing its new OTA update, Kia underlined that initial one-year trial bundles two free OTA updates for the vehicle’s navigation maps and infotainment. After that, a subscription service is available on the Kia Connect Store with the update packages delivered twice per year. The OEM further highlighted that prices and availability of all features may vary depending on the country.