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Hyundai to introduce digital keys on new cars

For those of us that have trouble keeping track of our car keys, the future might soon see the hassle of carrying them removed, as more car manufacturers announce plans to introduce models that can be accessed and unlocked via a driver's smartphone.
Hyundai is the latest company to jump on board the trend, following in the footsteps of American car manufacturer, Tesla. Hyundai has announced plans to introduce new 'digital key' technology on selected future models starting this year. Users will download the digital key as an app, with each car allowing up to four authorised devices. The system uses highly secure near field communication (NFC) technology, with antennas fitted in the front door handles and in a wireless charging pad inside the car. Users unlock the car by bringing an authorised smartphone close to the door, then start the car by placing it on the charging pad and pressing a start/stop button. The vehicle will also recognise each user's preferred settings, such as the position of mirrors, seats and the steering wheel, as well as controls for the audio, video and navigation systems, and the head-up display.
"This is a practical application of Hyundai's connected vehicle technology to create new, genuinely useful functions," said Mike Song, Hyundai's head of Operations for the Middle East and Africa. "Not only will people be able to use their smartphone in place of a key, but they will also be able to authorise other drivers simply by sharing the app, without having to keep track of multiple sets of car keys."
When sharing the car, a Hyundai owner will be able to limit the functions available for each digital key. This could include placing a time-limit for when the key will expire or setting an alert to warn the owner if the car is being driven too fast or is outside a designated area. As well as offering convenience for drivers, the new technology also recognises the changing nature of mobility and car ownership, such as the growing popularity of car-sharing schemes. Once car-sharing becomes more widespread, the digital key will be further programmed to support hassle-free vehicle rental, so the owner and driver can share a key without needing to meet in person. Conventional or card-type keys will still be provided for those times when sharing the digital key would be impractical, such as when leaving the car in a repair workshop or valet parking.
"The digital key will benefit a very wide range of future Hyundai customers, as well as enabling innovative new schemes for vehicle sharing," said Ho Yoo, group leader of Hyundai Motor Group's Electronics Development Group. "We are studying other ways to harness this type of connected-car technology to greatly enhance the driving and ownership experience."
- rohma@khaleejtimes.com