The South Korean car parts company announced on Wednesday that it has developed a new system which connects smartphones equipped with near-field communication (NFC) technology to vehicles through a mobile app. (Image: Hyundai Mobis)
SEOUL, Aug. 3 (Korea Bizwire) — Hyundai Mobis has developed a new technology called ‘smart key’, which allows users to start their car engine using a smartphone.
The South Korean car parts company announced on Wednesday that it has developed a new system which connects smartphones equipped with near-field communication (NFC) technology to vehicles through a mobile app.
NFC technology, which allows two devices within 10 centimeters to exchange information, has been used in public transportation, membership cards and other digital payment systems.
Though car sharing service providers like Socar and Green Car have previously introduced similar technology used to unlock car doors, it’s the first instance in South Korea of technology that allows drivers to start their engine without having a key, Hyundai Mobis explained.
A driver with an NFC-abled smartphone can also unlock car doors by touching the phone on the door handle after downloading the app.
After entering the car, drivers can start the engine by placing their smartphone on a wireless charging pad and pressing a button.
It is thanks to antennas set up in the car that receive NFC signals that drivers are able to use smartphones in lieu of a car key to open the door and start the engine.
In response to security concerns, Hyundai Mobis is using the latest password-based data protection systems to encrypt information on the phone and improve accuracy of the verification process, which will help fend off threats of hacking, forgery and other cyber security attacks.
Hyundai Mobis has developed a new technology called ‘smart key’, which allows users to start their car engine using a smartphone. (Image: Hyundai Mobis)
A third party may use someone else’s vehicle after downloading an app and going through a verification process to be granted the NFC technology-based smart key.
Even then, the owner of the car can still control the use of the car, by restricting the days and times available for third parties.
According to Hyundai Mobis, the mass production of the smart key will begin in 2019.
M.H.Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
