Bluelink Platform Expands as Hyundai Introduces In-Car EV Payments

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) announced on January 27, 2025, that it has sold 675,204 connected cars since the introduction of the technology in 2019. The contribution of connected cars to HMIL's retail sales has grown significantly, rising from 4.7% in 2019 to 25.7% in 2024.

The company currently offers connected features in 12 out of its 14 models in India via its Bluelink platform, which uses AI technology and an embedded SIM card to link vehicles with users' mobile devices. The number of features available has doubled from 35 in 2019 to over 70 in 2024.

In a major development, Hyundai has introduced an In-car Payment platform with the CRETA Electric model, enabling customers to make payments for EV charging directly through the vehicle's infotainment system at approximately 1,500 charging points across India. The system also helps users locate more than 10,000 charging points nationwide.

Jae Wan Ryu, Function Head - Corporate Planning at HMIL, stated that the company was the first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to introduce embedded connected car technology in India. He expressed confidence in the growing demand for connected car technology, citing the increasing number of tech-savvy and convenience-seeking consumers in the country.

The Bluelink service, available with a complimentary three-year package, includes features such as remote vehicle start, climate control, vehicle tracking, and emergency services. Security features include vehicle immobilization in case of theft, geo-fencing alerts, and speed notifications.

As connected car technology becomes increasingly important in the Indian market, Hyundai aims to further expand its Bluelink service by adding new features and extending availability to additional models. The company’s connected car journey began with the VENUE model in 2019 and now includes popular models like the i20, VERNA, CRETA, ALCAZAR, TUCSON, and the electric IONIQ 5.