In response to the increasing popularity of car sharing, Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors announced Monday the development of a smartphone-based digital key that allows multiple users to start, operate and control a single vehicle with smartphones.
The newly developed technology allows users to access vehicles without the need for a smart key. The digital key installed in a smartphone allows the driver total access to the car, and the feature will be implemented in upcoming car models, the company said.
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(Hyundai Motor Company) |
The digital key also allows access to a vehicle for up to four people, including the car owner. The car owner can customize the digital keys to be shared, restricting certain functions or setting a time limit to vehicle access. Separate credit card-sized card keys and existing smart keys will also be provided.
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(Hyundai Motor Company |
“The digital key is the first step to connectivity technology of smartphones and vehicles,” a company official said, “The move is expected to greatly improve convenience in automobile use.”
By Cho Hyee-su (
chohyeesu@heraldcorp.com)
