Hyundai Unveils Blue Link Telematics at 2011 CES
Hyundai introduced its Blue Link connected car system at CES 2011, promising advanced telematics and remote features for US models starting with the Sonata in spring.
Hyundai used the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas to announce Blue Link, a new telematics and connectivity platform for its US vehicles. The system, which combines navigation, safety, and remote-control features, was set to appear first on the Sonata in spring 2011, with wider rollout across the range by 2013.
Blue Link was Hyundai's answer to GM's OnStar, offering a suite of connected features designed to appeal to tech-focused buyers. The system integrated GPS navigation with real-time traffic and weather, and allowed drivers to search for points of interest using voice commands or web-based tools. Hyundai also emphasised safety, with automatic crash notification and an SOS emergency button connecting directly to live operators, even if the driver’s phone was out of service.
Remote vehicle control was a key selling point. Owners could start the engine, lock or unlock doors, or even disable the car remotely if stolen, using a smartphone app or web portal. Location-based features included stolen vehicle recovery, speed and curfew alerts, and geofencing. The system could also send monthly vehicle health reports and maintenance reminders.
Three service tiers for different needs
Hyundai structured Blue Link into three levels. The entry Blue Link Assurance package focused on safety and emergency support, including crash response and roadside assistance. Blue Link Essentials added remote features such as door locking, engine start, speech-to-text messaging, and alerts for speed or unauthorised movement. The top Guidance tier provided full navigation, traffic, and location-based search functions.
- Automatic Crash Notification and Assistance
- Remote Vehicle Start and Door Lock/Unlock
- Stolen Vehicle Recovery and Immobilisation
- Turn-by-Turn Navigation and Traffic
- Speech-to-Text Messaging
- Monthly Vehicle Health Reports
- Curfew, Speed, and Geofence Alerts
At launch, Blue Link was exclusive to the US market, with Hyundai targeting the Sonata and Veloster. The company stated its intention to equip all models with the platform by 2013, aiming to keep pace with rivals in the growing connected car segment.
Impact on buyers and competition
For buyers, Blue Link offered a level of connectivity and control that had previously been associated with premium brands or GM’s OnStar. Features like remote start and vehicle tracking were likely to appeal to families and younger drivers, especially as smartphone integration became standard. The move signalled Hyundai’s ambition to compete directly with established telematics providers and to position its mainstream models as technology leaders in the US market.
