Hyundai adds Amazon Alexa voice control to Blue Link app
Hyundai owners with Blue Link can now use Amazon Alexa to remotely start engines, adjust climate, lock doors and manage EV charging on compatible 2016 and 2017 models.
Hyundai has expanded its Blue Link connected services by adding support for Amazon Alexa, allowing owners to control several car functions using voice commands from inside their homes. This development, announced in late 2016, brings Hyundai in line with a growing trend in the automotive industry to integrate smart home technology with vehicle connectivity. The update covers all 2017 Hyundai models and selected 2016 vehicles, including the Genesis, Azera, Tucson, Sonata, Veloster and Elantra GT.
Hyundai and Amazon Alexa: Expanded Voice Control for Car Owners
How Alexa Integration Works with Hyundai Blue Link
Alexa, Amazon’s voice-activated virtual assistant, acts as a hub for smart home devices and now extends its capabilities to Hyundai vehicles through the Blue Link app. Owners can enable the Blue Link skill within the Alexa app, and once linked to their Blue Link account, they can issue a range of voice commands from any Alexa-enabled device. This integration is designed to make interacting with your car as simple as speaking a command at home, without needing to physically access the vehicle or use a traditional remote.
Features Available Through Alexa Voice Commands
With the Blue Link skill enabled, Hyundai drivers can perform a variety of remote functions. The system is particularly useful for preparing the car in advance, whether it’s warming up the engine on a cold morning or cooling the interior during a heatwave. Electrified models benefit from additional features focused on charging and battery management. The following features are available via Alexa:
- Remote engine start and stop
- Climate control adjustment
- Door locking and unlocking
- Lights and horn activation
- EV charging management for Ioniq and Sonata Plug-In Hybrid
These features are aimed at making daily routines more convenient for Hyundai owners. For example, pre-conditioning the cabin before leaving the house can improve comfort and efficiency, especially in extreme weather. For owners of the Ioniq and Sonata Plug-In Hybrid, Alexa integration allows them to check charging status or schedule charging times, helping to optimise energy use and potentially reduce electricity costs.
Compatible Hyundai Models
Alexa integration is available on all 2017 Hyundai models equipped with Blue Link, as well as certain 2016 models. The 2016 models confirmed to support this feature include the Genesis, Azera, Tucson, and selected variants of the Sonata, Veloster, and Elantra GT. Owners must ensure their vehicles are equipped with Blue Link and then link their accounts through the Alexa app to use voice commands.
| Model Year | Models |
|---|---|
| 2017 | All Hyundai models with Blue Link |
| 2016 | Genesis, Azera, Tucson, select Sonata, Veloster, Elantra GT |
No Additional Hardware Required
One of the advantages of this integration is that it does not require any new hardware to be installed in the car. All commands are relayed via the Blue Link app and Hyundai’s cloud services, making it accessible to current owners of compatible vehicles without extra expense or dealership visits. This approach leverages existing technology to provide enhanced convenience and a seamless user experience.
Implications for Smart Home and Automotive Technology
The partnership between Hyundai and Amazon reflects a broader movement towards integrating vehicles with smart home ecosystems. As consumers increasingly adopt voice assistants for daily tasks, car manufacturers are responding by making their vehicles accessible through these platforms. This trend is expected to continue, with more brands and models likely to offer similar features in the future, further blurring the lines between home automation and automotive technology.
