Genesis teams with Amazon to bring Alexa to the automobile

Genesis, the newly spun off luxury brand owned by Hyundai, has teamed up with Amazon to offer a variety of remote control functions.

Korean luxury car manufacturer Genesis is the first automaker to launch an Alexa skill, allowing remote voice commands to control connected cars.

“We’re excited to bring the convenience of voice and Alexa to the Genesis G80 and G90,” said Steve Rabuchin, vice president, Amazon Alexa. “With this innovative Alexa implementation, customers can now start their car, and get the heat going all just by asking Alexa from the comfort of their own home. We can’t wait for our customers to try it out.”

To send commands to Genesis vehicles via Alexa, users must enable the Genesis skill in their Alexa app available on iOS, Android and Fire tablets, and then link their existing Genesis Connected Services Account within the Alexa app.

Voice commands will only be sent to Genesis vehicles after Alexa prompts owners for their Genesis Connected Services Personal Identification Number (PIN).

“From remotely locking your car from your living room, to starting your G90 and setting the temperature from your bedroom, the Alexa skill for Genesis offers a new level of ease for owners,” said Erwin Raphael, general manager of Genesis in the U.S. market.

Focus on Tech

The Alexa integration is part of the Genesis brand’s focus on technology.

Genesis vehicles will be equipped with three years of “complimentary” Genesis Connected Car Services.

GCCS is sort of like the Genesis version of GM’s OnStar, in that it offers maintenance alerts and monthly vehicle reports, plus roadside assistance and automatic crash notification.

Genesis is launching two models in the United States this year, and has plans to expand their line-up to six vehicles (including a pair of SUVs) by the year 2021.

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