Hyundai Motor Group launches Pleos, its new software platform for next-gen SDVs

Hyundai Motor Group introduces Pleos to power software-defined vehicles, unveil new infotainment system, and expand SDV ecosystem with global partners.

Hyundai Motor Group has officially launched its new software brand Pleos, setting the stage for a bold shift into the world of software-defined vehicles (SDVs). The unveiling took place during the inaugural Pleos 25 developer conference in Seoul, where the company outlined its vision for a cloud-based mobility ecosystem and introduced several high-profile tech partnerships.

At the core of the announcement is Hyundai’s ambition to build a comprehensive software platform encompassing everything from vehicle operating systems to cloud infrastructure and mobility solutions. Central to this stack is Pleos Connect, the next-generation infotainment system based on Android Automotive OS. Slated to launch in Q2 2026, it’s expected to be integrated into over 20 million Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis vehicles by 2030. While specific models have not been disclosed, the system is deeply tied to the Group’s SDV strategy.

To foster a thriving in-vehicle app ecosystem, Hyundai also introduced Pleos Playground, an open development platform offering SDKs, APIs, tools, and sample code. Developers will be able to distribute their applications via an App Market, bringing mobile-like flexibility to the car experience. However, details regarding developer terms, moderation, and revenue share are yet to be revealed.

The Group also presented the Next Urban Mobility Alliance (NUMA), a public-private initiative aimed at tackling mobility issues such as transport inequality and urban depopulation. As part of NUMA, Hyundai is collaborating with Korean and European governments on pilot projects including the DRT service Shucle. Notably, under the Autonomous Vehicle Foundry initiative, Hyundai plans to roll out a fleet of autonomous Ioniq 5 vehicles in partnership with Avride and Uber. These robotaxis are set to launch in Dallas in 2025, accessible directly through the Uber app.

Hyundai is also joining forces with leading tech firms including Google, Samsung, Naver, SOCAR, and Unity. While Unity has previously collaborated with Hyundai on digital twin and manufacturing simulations, its potential role in in-vehicle gaming and 3D entertainment is still under wraps, with no project specifics announced.

Looking forward, Hyundai reaffirmed its roadmap to achieve Level 2+ autonomous driving capabilities by the end of 2027. Meanwhile, real-world tests of self-driving Ioniq 5 vehicles are already underway in Incheon, with the goal of developing adaptable, self-learning driving systems.

With the launch of Pleos, Hyundai is redefining itself not just as an automaker but as a tech-driven mobility solutions provider. The company's open innovation model, substantial investments, and global partnerships suggest a future where SDVs are not just connected and autonomous—but deeply personalized, modular, and software-centric.

Source: hyundainews.com