Connection Secured

the ‘connected car’ technology in the MG Hector and Hyundai Venue is set to change the Indian car market forever.

- Tuhin Guha

We’re in the middle of a technological revolution right now. Until a few years ago, words like artificial intelligence, internet of things, blockchain and augmented reality were in common parlance only among researchers and students of this field. But these have now spawned multi-billion dollar industries, with potentially hundreds of billions more worth of growth left.

It’s no surprise then that tech like this is now ingrained into most parts of our lives. Your phone can now talk to you, you can make dinner while still at work and can get dropped off to the other side of town at the click of a button. But one big aspect of our lives, at least for most customers in India, has so far remained devoid of any such wide-ranging changes. Our cars still feel generally analogue, with electronics only aiding the functioning of the oily bits. But things are now set to change. A spate of EV launches are in progress, but before that, we have the MG Hector and the Hyundai Venue. Both these cars are being pitched as ‘connected cars’ and will provide conveniences unheard of, so far, in our country.

WHAT IS A CONNECTED CAR?

A connected car is one which features an onboard internet connection, usually via a SIM card. Through this, the car can then interact with other devices, both inside and outside, process vehicle diagnostics and bring comfort and convenience to occupants. It effectively works on the Internet of Things principle and allows the user to interact with the car on a very deep level. Everything from the basic functions like switching on interior lighting, to connecting with emergency services can all be handled remotely.

HOW IS THIS ANY DIFFERENT FROM WHAT WE ALREADY HAVE?