Microsoft and Hyundai partner for technology
Microsoft and Hyundai partner for technology
Automotive News | May 6, 2008 - 2:05 am EST
SEOUL — Hyundai and Kia vehicles will be getting infotainment systems based on Microsoft Auto software beginning in 2010 in the North American market.
The two companies had been working on the deal for two years and announced it May 6 in Seoul where Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates was on a trip to meet new South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, as well as make the Hyundai announcement.
The two companies will co-develop the system for Hyundai and Kia models. It could end up in all models in their lineups by designing premium and entry level versions of the system, said Oles Gadacz, a Hyundai spokesman.
"We can develop different pricing points for specific markets," he said.
Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group is the first Asian automaker to get a system from Microsoft, which already makes the Sync system with Ford Motor Co. The Hyundai deal does not mean Microsoft won’t seek similar deals with other automakers.
"There is no exclusivity clause involved here," said Velle Kolde, a Microsoft spokesperson.
Microsoft is collaborating with Hyundai, "but the software we build would be available to be licensed."
The companies compare such next-generation infotainment systems to mini-PCs. The Hyundai system is likely to get a special name, as is the case with Ford’s Sync, and will be upgradeable via software updates. Microsoft considers it the next-generation version after the ones currently used in Ford and Fiat models. Features such as screens and navigation systems will be up to Hyundai as development continues, Kolde said.
"Microsoft Auto software has a broad set of capabilities," he said. "It depends on what hardware you want to make it into, the cost you’re willing to put into the vehicle and geographical preferences."
ENLARGE
|
| Ford already has a deal with Microsoft’s Sync system on the Focus |
