Photo of the Google Home, which utilizes Google Assistant features, and the 2017 Hyundai IONIQ Electric, courtesy of Hyundai.

Photo of the Google Home, which utilizes Google Assistant features, and the 2017 Hyundai IONIQ Electric, courtesy of Hyundai.

FCA and Hyundai are collaborating with Google to implement connected car technologies in their vehicles, which includes both automakers utilizing Google’s virtual assistant.

FCA and Google’s collaboration focuses on integrating the Android open-source platform with the Uconnect 8.4-inch connected system. The Uconnect and Android integration enables a system that is built for connectivity and compatibility with Google Assistant and the universe of popular Android applications, according to FCA.

“This collaboration with Google has been an extremely beneficial opportunity for both companies to explore how in-vehicle infotainment and connectivity technology continues to evolve, and what it takes to meet consumers’ increasing desire for innovation of information with minimal distraction,” said Chris Barman, head of electrical engineering, FCA. “With Android, we are able to maintain our unique and intuitive Uconnect user interface, all while integrating our easy-to-use systems with Android’s features and ecosystem of applications.”

Hyundai’s Blue Link, which provides connected car services that drivers can access in vehicle or via a smartphone app, will be made compatible with Google Assistant’s voice activated service, according to Hyundai.

"Our customers are finding smart home integrations like the one we are showcasing with Google Home to be very useful and convenient,” said Manish Mehrotra, director, digital business planning and connected operations, Hyundai Motor America. “We will continue to add layers of convenience to the Blue Link connected car system and our cars, making features like remote EV charge management, remote locking, temperature and remote start easier than ever while sitting on the couch and saying ‘Ok Google’.”

These technologies will be available for demonstration at CES 2017 in Las Vegas Jan. 5–8.

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