Kia Announces Free Software Update for their EVs

Kia has announced some new OTA (Over The Air) software updates available for free for their EV (electric vehicles).

Kia has unveiled a range of enhancements for its vehicles, offered as a complimentary software upgrade. The most notable improvement is the inclusion of EV route planning. The latest software update, which has been sent out to the EV6 and brand-new Niro EV fleet, enhances the overall driving experience of Kia's electric vehicles, providing added convenience and comfort.

The updated navigation system now identifies charging stations along the designated route and incorporates them as waypoints automatically. This allows drivers to embark on long journeys without concerns, even if their battery charge is low.

If the system detects that the remaining battery level is insufficient to reach the destination, it promptly alerts the driver and offers a selection of nearby charging stations. To optimize the charging process, if necessary, the vehicle will initiate the battery conditioning procedure automatically.

The suggested route is calculated using an algorithm that takes various factors into account, including the battery's state of charge, real-time Charging POI (points of interest) data, and the current energy consumption, which is influenced by external elements such as topography, weather conditions, traffic, as well as the driver's style and mode of operation.

Moreover, this update ensures that EV planning information remains intact even if the server routing switches to embedded routing due to network issues. In such instances, the system will recalculate the route, considering the recommended EV POI and distance information that was previously provided. All relevant data will be updated seamlessly once the CCS mode is reactivated.

Additionally, the new update prioritizes frequently used charging and refuelling stations in the search results. These stations can be easily accessed by selecting Navigation > POI categories > EV charging/Filling stations > Near current position.

The system will present a list of charging/filling stations near the vehicle's present location and identify those that have been visited frequently. Furthermore, the synchronization of favourite charging/filling station data between the Head Unit and the phone application has been implemented.

Lastly, the EV Route Planner functionality is now available and will continue to be enhanced through future software updates.