Hyundai Plans New OS For Over-The-Air Updates, And New EV Platforms With 50% More Range

Hyundai is hurrying to make its EV efforts even stronger.

In a bombshell announcement made to the public, Hyundai announced its intent to overhaul and streamline its EV operations in several key ways. The whole move will cost at least a staggering $12.6 billion to develop, starting from now, until 2030. Hyundai wants a “software-defined” EV experience, to bring the business to its EV competition.

First up, Hyundai is developing a new operating system that will be deployed in all Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis vehicles, including ICE and hybrid ones, by 2025. This new OS is designed to work at “blazing speeds” and offer over-the-air updates; a move that Hyundai says will increase the resale vehicle of its vehicles. For example, a Hyundai vehicle capable of OTA upgrades could increase functionality over time, similar to how many Tesla vehicles have gained new functions as the brand has sent out updates over the air. These OTA updates will be all-encompassing, anything from driver comfort, convenience, safety, connectivity, or even performance. The driver won’t have to visit the dealer for these updates, either.

Then, Hyundai is developing two new dedicated EV platforms; one called eS and the other called eM. The eM platform will underpin most all Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis EVs, and the brand promises an increase of up to 50% in range. It will offer Level 3 autonomous driving features, and also incorporate Hyundai’s forthcoming OTA features. The eS platform is a skateboard-style EV platform meant for PBVs, or “purpose-built vehicles”, like delivery vans, rideshare cars, or taxis. Both platforms are meant to be modular, making things simpler and easier for Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis to make.

The fruits of Hyundai’s efforts should come out as soon as 2025.

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