If you happen to live in the States and own a 2018 Niro Plug-In Hybrid, 2017-18 Optima Plug-In Hybrid, 2017-18 Soul EV or 2016-17 K900, you’ll be able to control some of your vehicle’s functions by using voice commands.
The tech is called UVO Skill and it allows owners to lock doors, sound the horn, flash their lights and remotely start or stop charging their electrified vehicle. You can also start and stop your engine as well as heat and cool your car.
“We constantly strive to find new ways to make our vehicles more user-friendly,” stated Kia Motors America exec Orth Hedrick. “The UVO Skill for Alexa makes it easier and more convenient for owners of compatible Kias to use their vehicles. The UVO Skill is one more enhanced feature that reflects Kia’s forward-thinking spirit.”
So as long as you’ve got the proper model for the job, all you need is a device with Amazon Alexa like Echo or Echo Dot and a wireless signal and you’re ready to go. As for the set-up, it’s done through the Alexa companion app.