Intel to Develop Infotainment System for Hyundai Cars

Intel signed a deal Monday in Seoul to develop an enhanced in-vehicle infotainment platform for cars made by Hyundai and its Kia subsidiary.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) joins the two sides in development and deployment of a system that provides entertainment content, location-based services and easy access to social networking sites, Hyundai announced. Intel will also develop related applications and software, while the carmakers will devise ways to implement the technology. A third partner of the agreement will be Korea’s C&S Technology which makes the processor chips to be used in future infotainment systems.

The contemplated system will be a significant improvement over the current telematic systems that provide real-time vehicle data, navigation and video and audio services.

“The MOU aims to fuel growth of next-generation IT products for vehicles that can meet growing consumer requirements for both driving-related information and entertainment content,” said Hyundai Vice Chairman Yang Woong-chul.

“Strengthening this sector can help build a firm foundation for the manufacturing of next-generation ‘smart cars’ that will allow [us] to compete with other carmakers in the future,” the company said.

Hyundai and Kia currently comprise the world’s fourth largest automotive group, behind GM, Toyota and Volkswagen.