Hyundai Launches Pleos, Paving the Way for Connected Mobility

Hyundai Motor Group has officially introduced its innovative mobility software brand, Pleos, at a developer conference in Seoul. This unveiling marks a strategic shift in the company’s approach, focusing on software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and cloud-based mobility solutions. Hyundai aims to revolutionize the automotive industry by integrating advanced software systems into its vehicles, ensuring a seamless, connected driving experience.

Pleos Connect: The Next-Generation Infotainment System

One of the highlights of the launch was Pleos Connect, Hyundai’s next-generation infotainment system. Scheduled for release in the second quarter of 2026, this system is expected to be implemented in over 20 million vehicles by 2030. Built on Android Automotive OS, Pleos Connect will enable better mobile application integration and allow third-party developers to create innovative in-vehicle applications. This will offer drivers and passengers an enhanced, user-friendly interface with real-time updates and personalized features.

Hyundai’s Vision for Cloud Mobility

Hyundai envisions a future where all modes of transportation are interconnected via cloud-based software solutions. According to Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Advanced Vehicle Platform Division, the company’s ultimate goal is to achieve Cloud Mobility. This concept involves vehicles evolving over time through continuous software updates, ensuring improved functionality, performance, and security.

Pleos Playground: Empowering Developers

To support its cloud mobility initiative, Hyundai introduced Pleos Playground, an open development platform. This tool will provide developers with software development kits (SDKs), design guidelines, and support resources, making it easier to create in-vehicle applications. These apps will be available for users to download through a dedicated App Market, enhancing the overall driving experience with a variety of entertainment, navigation, and smart home integration features.

Strategic Collaborations with Tech Giants

Hyundai Motor Group has announced partnerships with leading technology firms, including Google, Uber, Samsung, Naver, SOCAR, and Unity. These collaborations aim to expand the Pleos software ecosystem by integrating vehicles with smart home systems, optimizing AI-driven navigation, enhancing ride-sharing experiences, and developing immersive in-vehicle entertainment options. These initiatives underscore Hyundai’s commitment to building a smarter, more connected mobility landscape.

Advancing Autonomous Driving Capabilities

As part of its software-driven transformation, Hyundai plans to introduce Level 2+ autonomous driving capabilities by the end of 2027. This system will leverage cameras, radars, and AI deep learning to recognize vehicle surroundings and make real-time driving decisions. Hyundai aims to create learning machines that improve performance through experience and real-world data collection.

NUMA: Transforming Urban Mobility

Hyundai also unveiled the Next Urban Mobility Alliance (NUMA), a public-private partnership aimed at optimizing transportation systems. NUMA includes projects like Shucle, a demand-responsive transport service, and the Autonomous Vehicle Foundry (AVF), which supplies electric autonomous vehicles to global businesses. Through NUMA, Hyundai seeks to build efficient, tech-enabled mobility networks that cater to evolving urban transportation needs.

The Shift Towards Software-Defined Vehicles

The global automotive industry is undergoing a paradigm shift, with traditional automakers facing competition from tech giants and electric vehicle startups. The rise of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) signifies a fundamental change in vehicle design, where software capabilities are as critical as mechanical performance. Hyundai’s Pleos initiative positions the company at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring it remains competitive in the rapidly evolving mobility landscape.

Hyundai’s Commitment to Future Mobility

Hyundai Motor Group, encompassing the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands, has been making significant investments in next-generation mobility solutions. Since 2023, the company has been working on electrical and electronic architecture advancements to support its ambitious software-driven strategy. The Pleos brand represents Hyundai’s commitment to technological evolution, ensuring that future vehicles offer unparalleled connectivity, intelligence, and user experiences.

The Meaning Behind Pleos

The name Pleos is derived from the Greek word “Pleo,” meaning “more”, combined with “OS” for Operating System. This reflects Hyundai’s mission to add value to mobility through continuous innovation. With Pleos, Hyundai is not just developing software; it is shaping the future of smart, connected transportation.