The Microchip MOST150 is powering Kia's flagship K900 sedan with in-car telematics for its infotainment network

     Microchip Technology has announced that Kia Motors has enabled Microchip OS81110 Intelligent Network Interface Controller (INIC) in its luxury flagship Kia K900 sedan (called "Quoris" in some countries). Enrich its infotainment system by adding powerful smartphone connectivity. After years of experience with Microchip's MOST Inics, Kia decided to adopt the latest MOST150 standard for the K9002015 to take advantage of the device's excellent Internet connectivity.

     Since 2001, 184 models have been equipped with more than 170 million MOST interface controller products. Because MOST technology is a proven, low-risk complete system solution, it has been used successfully for many years in the multi-node infotainment network systems of Kia Motors and all other major automakers. The MOST150 standard meets the needs of Kia cars for Internet connectivity. The latest generation of MOST technology also eliminates the need for a time synchronization protocol to use dedicated channels in the main infotainment control unit processor to efficiently transmit video, audio, packets and control data in a predictable manner throughout the vehicle range with minimal processor overhead.

     Soon-Nam Lee, Vice President of Kia Motors' Overseas Marketing Team, said: "The MOST150 provides us with an excellent system design platform to enable our customers to enjoy the digital life while in a Kia vehicle. The latest Kia models with this technology will enable both drivers and passengers to seamlessly connect to the Internet and the world outside the car."

     Dan Termer, Microchip's vice president of Automotive Information Systems, said: "We are very pleased that Kia Motors has adopted Microchip's  MOST150 product for the infotainment system in its flagship K900 model. Kia's powerful in-car infotainment system, created using MOST technology, has been a major customer attraction for many years. "The K900 is a perfect demonstration of Kia's latest research and development, and in-vehicle networking technology is the key to differentiating it."

     The MOST150 also offers 150Mbps performance and has reliable electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). All MOST Inics offer industry-standard hardware interfaces to the processor and peripherals for efficient delivery of streaming media, packets, and control data, greatly simplifying module design. With the ultra-fast network startup feature of MOST Inics, end users can instantly access the in-vehicle infotainment system.

     The MOST Cooperation standard provides automotive Oems and their Tier 1 suppliers with a proven, well-supported pathway to design and deploy their high-bandwidth infotainment and Advanced Driver assistance (ADAS) systems. Includes a standard physical layer and a robust approach to system management and control with superior reliability and quality of service (QoS). At the same time, the use of MOST technology can also reduce the weight of the body, helping to comply with environmental regulations.