Map navigation and in-car payment systems have emerged as key features Korean drivers consider when purchasing cars, leading even foreign car brands to add SK Telecom’s T Map navigation system and in-car payment solution to their new models to woo Korean consumers.

Among the foreign names, Volvo is most aggressive in the trend, according to industry sources on Monday.

Volvo Cars Korea recently released its new flagship S90 sedan and V90 Cross Country wagon, both of which employed SK Telecom’s integrated infotainment service for the first time in Korea.

The automaker saw pre-orders for another new release XC60 SUV topped 2,000 in just two weeks of the opening thanks to the embedded option of T Map navigation.

Volvo invested 30 billion won ($25 million) jointly with T Map to add the integrated infotainment system of SK Telecom. With the AI-based system, drivers can control the interior temperature, set the destination, send mobile messages and explore living information simply by calling the AI assistant.

Swedish automaker Polestar, a stand-alone EV brand separated from Volvo that is preparing its official launch in Korea in January next year, will apply the T Map navigation software to its releases starting with the electric sedan Polestar 2.

Jeep’s All New Grand Cherokee L is also backed by the T Map service as the first model of the brand.

In-car payment system has become another necessary feature of new cars.

Renault Samsung Motors introduced the car pay solution for new releases XM3 crossover SUV and SM6 sedan. Hyundai Motor and Kia have applied the option to their new lineup since last year. The system currently available at limited membership places like gas stations and parking lots is expected to add more service available locations.

By Seo Jin-woo and Lee Ha-yeon

[ⓒ Pulse by Maeil Business Newspaper & mk.co.kr, All rights reserved]