Kia Motors Introduces New In-Car Infotainment System 'UVO'
Published:06-January-2010
By Staff Reporter
Kia Motors America (KMA) has unveiled a new in-car communications and entertainment system, UVO, to be available in select Kia vehicles in the US starting this summer. Microsoft-powered UVO is most likely to debut in the company's all-new Sorento model
KMA said that UVO provides consumer friendly voice-and-touch-activated experiences for simple management of music files and hands-free mobile phone operation. Co-developed with Microsoft and based on Windows Embedded Auto software, UVO is an easy-to-use, hands-free solution that allows drivers and passengers to answer and place phone calls, receive and respond to SMS text messages, access music from a variety of media sources and create custom music experiences.
Understanding drivers want and need intuitive controls, Kia Motors and Microsoft designed UVO to enable a new level of voice recognition through Microsoft speech technology. UVO users will be able to access media content and connect with people through simple, quick voice commands without having to navigate through menus.
Michael Sprague, VP of marketing at KMA, said: "UVO powered by Microsoft is a breakthrough for in-vehicle infotainment that helps allow drivers and passengers to safely and easily use all of their personal technologies to create personalized in-vehicle communications and entertainment experiences. Collaborating with Microsoft, Kia Motors is able to offer drivers an experience that will provide our cars with a clear competitive advantage."
Kevin Dallas, general manager of Windows Embedded Business division at Microsoft, said: "We are very excited with the customized approach Kia Motors is bringing to in-car infotainment. Kia's UVO system demonstrates how the power of Windows Embedded technology can keep consumers connected to the devices, information and entertainment that matters to them most."
UVO, apart with Sorento, will be extended to additional Kia vehicles as part of the brand's technological evolution. Reportedly, UVO will be shown for the first time at the 2010 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, January 7-10.
