Seoul, June 25, 2015 – Microchip Technology (Korea Representative: Byung-Don Han), a global leader in microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, announced that Kia Motors is enhancing the infotainment system with robust smartphone connectivity in the Kia K9 luxury sedan, a flagship product known as Quoris in other overseas markets, by equipping it with Microchip’s OS81110 Intelligent Network Interface Controller (INIC). Based on years of experience using Microchip’s MOST® INIC, Kia adopted the MOST150 standard to implement internet connectivity in the 2015 K9 model.

Since 2001, more than 170 million MOST interface controllers have been installed in 184 vehicle models. All major automotive manufacturers, including Kia, have successfully implemented MOST technology in their multi-node infotainment networking systems, providing low-risk, comprehensive system solutions based on years of proven performance. The MOST150 standard fully meets Kia's internet connectivity requirements. In addition, this latest version of MOST technology predictably and efficiently transmits video, audio, packet, and control data from the entire vehicle without a time synchronization protocol, and implements a system that minimizes processor overhead in the main infotainment control unit processor by utilizing a dedicated channel.

Lee Soon-nam, Senior Vice President of Overseas Marketing at Kia Motors, stated, “MOST150 provides a system development platform that enables customers to enjoy a digital life in their vehicles,” adding, “This technology allows drivers and passengers in Kia’s latest cars to be perfectly connected to the internet and the world outside the vehicle.”

"We are very pleased that Microchip's MOST150 device has been adopted for the infotainment system of Kia's flagship model, the K9," said Dan Termer, Vice President of Microchip's Automotive Business Unit. "Kia has been developing outstanding systems for its customers using MOST technology over the past several years. The K9 is a representative model showcasing the latest achievements, highlighting in-vehicle networking technology as a key competitive advantage."

The MOST150 also provides 150 Mbps performance and proven Electron Environmental Compatibility (EMC) characteristics. All MOST INICs implement industry-standard hardware interfaces to processors and peripherals to effectively route streaming, packet, and control data and significantly simplify module design. End users can immediately access automotive infotainment systems with the MOST INIC's ultra-high-speed network startup capabilities.

The MOST Corporation standard provides automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers with proven performance and suitable support for the definition and implementation of high-bandwidth infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This includes a standard physical layer and highly reliable techniques for system management and control through outstanding stability and Quality of Service (QoS). Additionally, using MOST technology reduces vehicle body weight, making it easier to meet environmental regulations.

More detailed information about Microchip's MOST networking products can be found at http://www.microchip.com/MOST-061615a.