Traditional keys take a backseat as one in three Hyundai buyers opt for digital key

India Today

2 days ago

Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has reported that nearly one in three of its customers are choosing to enrol for its digital key feature, signalling a strong shift in buyer preference towards advanced, tech-driven conveniences in vehicles.Since its debut on the Hyundai Alcazar in September 2024 and subsequent introduction on the Creta Electric in January 2025, the NFC-based digital key has achieved a notable 33 per cent adoption rate. The feature allows owners to replace traditional keys with a virtual one, stored securely on compatible smartphones, smartwatches, or an NFC card.advertisementHow does it work?Once set up through the Hyundai Bluelink app, the digital key enables customers to tap their device on the car's door handle to lock/unlock and place it on the wireless charging pad to start the vehicle. Owners can also share access with up to three people or seven devices at a time, a feature that 35 per cent of current Digital Key users are already utilising to give family members or friends access to their cars.
Interestingly, iOS devices dominate usage, accounting for 68 per cent of Digital Key adoption, while Android devices make up the remaining 32 per cent.Speaking on the growing customer preference, Unsoo Kim, Managing Director and CEO, HMIL, said: "At Hyundai Motor India, innovation is driven by purpose, offering meaningful solutions that elevate customer experience. As the first OEM to launch connected car technology in India back in 2019, we remain committed to democratizing premium features for Indian customers. The enthusiastic response to digital key reaffirms our belief in creating technology that adds real value to everyday life."Digital key convenienceThe digital key, powered by NFC (Near Field Communication), provides flexibility and security as access can be created, shared, or revoked anytime. It also eliminates concerns around misplacing or forgetting a physical key, enhancing peace of mind for customers.With both the Alcazar and Creta Electric now offering this functionality in select variants, Hyundai says the feature is gaining traction as a real-world convenience, not just a novelty. Beyond locking, unlocking, and starting the car, its ability to seamlessly integrate with smart devices and share access across multiple users has contributed to its growing popularity.The company added that expanding the availability of digital key across more models is part of its future roadmap, as HMIL continues its push to bring advanced mobility technologies into mainstream segments in India.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine- Ends