Kia’s UVO Connect becomes Kia Connect

Kia has re-branded its in-car and app-based telematics system to Kia Connect.

Previously known as UVO Connect, the Korean car maker says Kia Connect makes driving an “easier and more intuitive experience” with a series of features designed to enhance vehicle connectivity, functionality and user control.

Jason Jeong, president at Kia Europe and Kia Connect, said: “By re-naming our on-board and app-based telematics system to Kia Connect, we are making it clear to customers that its features are there to provide a seamless connection between owner, vehicle and environment. By taking advantage of Kia Connect’s comprehensive suite of technologies, customers can look forward to stress-free journeys like never before.” 

Kia Connect’s suite of on-board technologies can be accessed through the vehicles’ central touchscreen. Features include Online Navigation, a service that draws on cloud-based real-time and historical traffic data to more accurately predict traffic levels, giving customers more accurate journey times and estimated time of arrival.

Users can also access Kia Connect Live Services, which brings together data from a range of specialist providers for traffic information, parking availability and parking costs, locations and pricing for fuel stations and EV charging points, weather forecasts, online POI search, and speed camera information.

The Kia Connect app allows users to remotely access vehicle information via their smartphone, such as trip data and statistics, vehicle location and vehicle lock status. EV owners can use the app to set climate control levels, view their vehicle’s charging status, plan smart charging schedules and check the range radius based on the remaining charge.

Users can also access ‘last mile navigation’ and ‘valet parking mode’ functions via the Kia Connect app. Last Mile Navigation helps customers navigate to their final destination via smartphone once their car is parked using Google Maps or augmented reality (AR) guidance.

The Valet Parking Mode enables users to monitor their vehicle remotely when it’s being driven by someone else, providing added peace of mind.

Kia Connect will be rolled out across Kia’s European line-up over the coming months, while the Kia Connect app will be available for download via the Google Play and Apple App stores.