Alexa Remote Controls Coming to Kia

Kia Motors Corp. is the latest carmaker to add compatibility for Amazon.com’s Alexa voice-enabled personal assistant in its vehicles.

Owners of select Kia vehicles can synch their vehicle with Amazon’s home-based Echo speaker units. This will allow them to interact with Alexa to remotely start the car, unlock and lock the doors, activate the climate control system, flash the lights and initiate or stop battery charging.

Initially the feature will be available on Kia’s 2016-2017 K900 sedan and 2017/2018 Niro plug-in hybrid crossover, Optima plug-in hybrid sedan and Soul electric vehicle. Parent Hyundai Motor Co. and the carmaker’s upscale Genesis brand already offer Alexa.