Hyundai is moving deeper into the software-defined vehicle race with Pleos Connect, its next-generation infotainment system that brings digital control of vehicle functions to the updated Grandeur. The system does not yet have a confirmed U.S. debut, but a hands-on demonstration provides a look at how Hyundai’s new technology could work in future vehicles.
Hyundai Takes a Different Approach to In-Car Technology
Pleos Connect allows passengers to navigate vehicle controls and functions digitally, including climate settings. A demonstration by KoreanCarBlog TV on YouTube showed the system running on a Grandeur equipped with a 17-inch infotainment touchscreen similar to Tesla’s setup.
Hyundai has retained physical buttons rather than adopting a fully minimalist touchscreen design. The approach allows drivers to change settings without searching through touchscreen menus and is intended to help prevent distractions.
Pleos Connect Runs on Android Automotive OS
Pleos Connect runs on Android Automotive OS (AAOS) and uses a smartphone-like interface that can display three separate sections at the same time.
The left section provides driving information, while the other areas can display navigation and multimedia services, including YouTube and Spotify. The system can also control air conditioning, lighting and drive modes, although the demonstration showed a steering-wheel button being used to change drive modes.
Gleo AI Adds Voice Controls
Hyundai’s system also includes Gleo AI, which is designed to function as a smart companion and change vehicle settings through voice commands.
Like Tesla’s Grok, Gleo AI can hold conversations with passengers. KoreanCarBlog TV’s demonstration showed four available voices, although the test vehicle did not support English at the time of filming. The presenter said English support should arrive “very soon.”
Pleos Connect Could Reach the U.S. With the Tucson
Pleos Connect launched in the Grandeur in Hyundai’s home market of South Korea and is set for a global rollout. The Ioniq 3 will be the system’s first European application.
The technology is also expected to arrive in the U.S. with the next-generation Tucson. Based on initial press photos, the new Tucson features a dashboard and screen layout similar to the Grandeur, including a large central touchscreen and a slim horizontal driver display.
Next-Generation Tucson Set for Key Role
Hyundai has not confirmed when the next-generation Tucson will launch in the U.S. The model will compete in the compact crossover segment against the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
Hyundai aims to bring Pleos Connect to approximately 20 million Hyundai, Kia and Genesis vehicles by 2030. By the same year, the company also plans to expand its performance-focused N lineup to seven models.
