LG Electronics’ in-vehicle display solution. (Image courtesy of LG Electronics)
SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Korea Bizwire) — LG Electronics said Wednesday that it has won a MotorTrend-hosted innovation award for the second consecutive year, underscoring its growing role in shaping the future of software-defined vehicles.
The company was recognized at the 2026 Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Innovator Awards, organized by MotorTrend, one of the most influential automotive media outlets in the United States.
Founded in 1949, MotorTrend is widely known for its annual “Car of the Year” honors and its influence on global auto industry trends.
At this year’s ceremony, Kim Kyung-rak, an executive vice president who leads display development at LG Electronics’ vehicle solutions business, received the “Pioneer” award for advancing in-car displays from simple visual panels into intelligent, interactive interfaces that are central to software-driven vehicles.
MotorTrend cited Kim’s leadership in developing LG’s “bendable moving display,” a technology that unfolds into a large screen only when needed and retracts when not in use.
The design reflects a “shy tech” concept, aimed at balancing functionality with minimalist interior aesthetics. The display is expected to be adopted in future mass-produced premium vehicles.
LG Electronics has been expanding its SDV-related technologies with a focus on automotive displays. Key developments include a “wide hover screen” that delivers high-brightness visuals on the windshield without a traditional black screen, and an ultra-light augmented-reality head-up display that adjusts focus based on the driver’s line of sight.
The company’s recognition follows last year’s award to Eun Seok-hyun, head of LG’s vehicle solutions unit, who was named “Leader” for his role in driving SDV innovation.
Eun said LG aims to move beyond software-defined vehicles toward what it calls “AI-defined vehicles,” using real-time analysis of driving conditions and passenger status to deliver safer and more intuitive mobility experiences.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
