Hyundai Motor Group has introduced its new mobility software brand, “Pleos,” at a developer conference in Seoul on Friday. The launch marks a shift in the company’s focus toward software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and cloud-based mobility solutions.
The automotive giant revealed that its next-generation infotainment system, Pleos Connect, will be launched in the second quarter of 2026, with plans to integrate it into more than 20 million vehicles by 2030. Based on Android Automotive OS, Pleos Connect will offer enhanced integration with mobile apps and third-party developers.
During his keynote speech, Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Advanced Vehicle Platform Division, explained the company’s vision: “Our ultimate goal is to achieve Cloud Mobility, where all forms of mobility are connected through software on the cloud, continuously evolving over time.” As part of this vision, Hyundai also introduced Pleos Playground, an open development platform for mobile app developers. The platform will offer software development kits, design guides, and support tools to help developers create in-vehicle apps, which can be downloaded through a dedicated App Market.
Hyundai also announced collaborations with major technology companies such as Google, Uber, Samsung, Naver, SOCAR, and Unity to expand its software ecosystem. These partnerships will enable Hyundai to integrate its vehicles with smart homes, enhance navigation, optimize AI features, improve car-sharing, and create new in-vehicle entertainment experiences. Additionally, Hyundai revealed plans to introduce Level 2+ autonomous driving capabilities by 2027, utilizing cameras and radars to recognize surroundings and make decisions using AI deep learning. The company aims to create “learning machines” that continuously improve through experience.
To further its cloud mobility goals, Hyundai launched the Next Urban Mobility Alliance (NUMA), a public-private initiative to optimize transportation systems. NUMA includes projects like Shucle, a demand-responsive transport service, and the Autonomous Vehicle Foundry (AVF), which supplies electric vehicles with autonomous driving technologies. As the automotive industry increasingly shifts towards software-defined vehicles, Hyundai Motor Group’s investment in future mobility technologies positions it to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. The Pleos brand name, derived from the Greek word “Pleo” (meaning “more”) and “OS” for “Operating System,” reflects the company’s ambition to enhance mobility through technological advancements.
Hyundai Motor Group is a leading global conglomerate with a diverse value chain spanning mobility, steel, construction, logistics, finance, IT, and services. With a workforce of approximately 250,000 employees worldwide, the Group’s renowned mobility brands include Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Driven by innovation, collaborative communication, and a relentless determination to tackle challenges, we are committed to shaping a brighter future for all.
