Hyundai and Kia vehicles to offer advanced Connected Car functionality over the Bell wireless network starting this summer

MONTRÉAL, June 8, 2017 /CNW/ - Bell today announced an agreement with Hyundai AutoEver Telematics America (HATA), a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Group, to deliver a range of connected telematics services including security, safety, diagnostics and infotainment to select Hyundai and Kia vehicles over Bell's national mobile network.

Starting this summer, these capabilities will be available in Hyundai and Kia cars, SUVs and crossovers via Hyundai's BlueLink and Kia's UVO Intelligence^TM in-vehicle services. Bell's wireless technology will power safety and security services such as emergency roadside assistance and automatic collision notification, and connect a suite of services like remote start, climate control, local search, remote door lock/unlock, maintenance alerts and on-demand diagnostics.

"We are proud to be working closely with HATA to help further enhance the driving experience for Hyundai and Kia customers," said Gary Semplonius , Vice President of Business Sales and Marketing for Bell Mobility. "Integrating Bell wireless technology with Hyundai BlueLink and Kia UVO Intelligence underscores Bell's place at the forefront of the Internet of Things (IoT) connected car movement. Our partnership with HATA will enable exceptional new services that improve the connected vehicle experience for both drivers and passengers."

"Hyundai's BlueLink brings connectivity directly into the vehicle, allowing drivers and passengers a seamless technological experience on the road," said Don Romano , President and CEO, Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. "BlueLink takes advantage of Bell's national mobile network to reliably deliver a range of services to improve safety, comfort and convenience for Hyundai customers coast to coast. Customers will undoubtedly appreciate the capabilities and ease of use of Hyundai BlueLink and how this cutting-edge telematics service will improve their drive."

"By adding Bell's reliable and built-in wireless connection, we can provide our customers with an innovative driving and riding experience, from safety and diagnostics to the integration of third-party apps," said Ted Lancaster , Vice President and COO, Kia Canada . "This built-in mobile experience will be free for the first 5 years and will enhance our lineup starting with the 2018 Optima and the all-new 2018 Rio 5-door – a subcompact Canadian-favourite that has been re-designed and engineered to deliver an athletic stance, enhanced comfort and dynamic performance all wrapped in a bold new style."

Bell Mobility has been working with HATA over the last 3 years to help launch these world class connected car solutions, assisting in their design, certification, testing and provisioning. Hyundai will introduce BlueLink services with the 2018 Elantra GT 5-door compact car, followed closely by the 2018 Sonata mid-size sedan and other vehicles in the Hyundai line-up. Both Hyundai and Kia telematics service packages are complimentary for 5 years from vehicle purchase.

**Bell and the Internet of Things ** Bell has taken a leadership position in the fast-growing Internet of Things sector, which enables the interconnection of a range of devices and applications that send and receive data. Applications include connected vehicles, smart city services, smart metering, asset tracking, supply chain management, security and alarm monitoring, transportation and logistics, and personal wearables for healthcare and accessibility applications.

Earlier this month, Bell announced it will launch an LTE-M (Long Term Evolution, category M1) network in 2018 that will further improve the efficiency of IoT devices by enabling very low power consumption and better coverage in underground and other hard to reach locations. Bell has successfully demonstrated its first LTE-M application, an asset tracking and monitoring solution for Emergency Management Service (EMS) workers.

As part of its significant investment in Manitoba , Bell MTS also announced the Innovations in Agriculture program at the University of Manitoba in May. The unique program will provide students with opportunities to develop innovative IoT technologies for application in agriculture and food science.