If you’re an iPhone user and a car enthusiast, here’s some exciting news! Hyundai is making a bold move in the EV world by integrating Apple’s next-generation infotainment system, CarPlay Ultra, into its upcoming IONIQ 3 electric vehicle. This is a rare move among automakers and sets Hyundai apart as a pioneer in digital automotive technology.
What Is Apple CarPlay Ultra?
Apple CarPlay Ultra is more than just the usual CarPlay you know. Unlike standard infotainment systems that sit in the center console, CarPlay Ultra connects directly to your car’s instrument cluster, letting you control navigation, music, climate, and even performance settings right from your CarPlay interface.
Imagine having your iPhone’s smart features fully integrated with your car’s digital display, making your drive smoother, safer, and more connected. That’s what CarPlay Ultra brings to the table.
Why Hyundai’s Move Matters
Hyundai’s adoption of CarPlay Ultra in the IONIQ 3 is a big deal for several reasons:
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Affordable Access to Advanced Tech – While luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo have reportedly skipped CarPlay Ultra, Hyundai is bringing it to an EV that’s expected to start around $35,000.
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Better Driving Experience – With CarPlay Ultra, drivers get a seamless, intuitive interface for navigation, music, and car controls without fumbling with separate screens.
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Future-Ready Features – The IONIQ 3 will support over-the-air updates, meaning your CarPlay Ultra system can improve and add features over time.
What to Expect From the Hyundai IONIQ 3
The upcoming IONIQ 3 promises more than just CarPlay Ultra:
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Range: Approximately 365 miles on a single charge.
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Customizable Digital Interfaces: Personalize your dashboard and CarPlay Ultra experience.
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Smart Tech Integration: Easy syncing with iPhone apps and Apple services for navigation, music, and communication.
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Affordable EV Innovation: Advanced tech without the luxury price tag.
With these features, Hyundai is not just keeping up—it’s setting a new standard for affordable EVs with advanced in-car technology.
How This Changes the EV Market
By integrating CarPlay Ultra into a mainstream EV, Hyundai is pushing the industry toward smarter, more connected vehicles. Consumers now have the chance to enjoy high-end digital features without paying luxury EV prices. This move could encourage other automakers to rethink their strategies and embrace deeper tech integration for all drivers.
Final Thoughts
Hyundai’s decision to bring Apple CarPlay Ultra to the IONIQ 3 is a win for tech-savvy drivers and EV enthusiasts alike. It combines affordability, advanced technology, and seamless user experience in a way few automakers are doing right now. For anyone looking to buy an EV with modern features, the IONIQ 3 is shaping up to be an exciting option.
