By Park Jin-hai



Hyundai Motor's 2015 Sonata will have Google's infotainment system, Android Auto, in a first among global carmakers, Hyundai Motor America said Wednesday.



Android Auto debuted last June at Google's annual developer-focused conference. It enables drivers to make phone calls, listen to music apps and use Google's mapping service by simply plugging a compatible phone (Android 5.0 or newer) into the car's dashboard.



"Android Auto aligns with Hyundai's core interior design principles of safety, intuitiveness and simplicity," said Dave Zuchowski, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "We launched this highly anticipated feature on our best-selling Sonata, adding to our promise of value. With the launch of Android Auto, we provide more owners with the experience of cutting-edge technology."



Android Auto helps keep drivers' eyes and attention on the road by integrating the advanced driving-related functions of the user's smartphone with the familiar centralized screen, physical controls and microphone of their car, the company says.



Local experts see it is big win for Hyundai and Google. Hyundai became the first carmaker to offer Android Auto, while Google can mount its sleek, colorful system into tens of thousands of cars before its rival Apple can do the same with its iPhone interface, CarPlay.



Shin Chung-kwan, an analyst at KB Investment and Securities, said its fast and open decision process gave the Korean carmaker an advantage over its rivals.



"It shows Hyundai has been more open in its decision-making process in in-car technology," he said. "It seems that Google and Apple's IT interfaces will be widely used in the end, replacing the conventional audio, visual and navigation systems."



Work on Android Auto began in early 2014, when Hyundai, along with Audi, General Motors and Honda, joined a Google-led group called the Open Automotive Alliance.



Android Auto also supports some third-party apps, such as the Spotify streaming music service. More are on the way.



Android Auto is not available in local Hyundai models yet, but the process to localize the technology has been under way.



"The language is largely the biggest barrier," a Hyundai official said. "So the development process focuses on recognizing the local language."



Dozens of other automakers, including Ford, GM, Honda and Volkswagen, are also expected to sell cars with Android Auto within a year.



