Seoul, February 2, 2026 – Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation announced the development of Vision Pulse, a new automotive safety technology based on ultra-wideband (UWB) signals, capable of detecting obstacles around the vehicle in real time, even when they are not visible to the driver.
The system uses modules UWB installed in vehicles to emit radio signals and calculate with great precision the position of other vehicles, bicycles or pedestrians also having compatible modules, present in certain smartphones, portable devices and trackers. By measuring signal propagation time, Vision Pulse identifies collision risks and issues alerts almost instantly.
According to the manufacturers, the technology achieves an accuracy of up to 10 centimeters within a radius of 100 meters, with communication times of between 1 and 5 milliseconds. Even in adverse conditions such as heavy rain, fog or night driving, the system maintains accuracy levels above 99%.
One of the key strengths of Vision Pulse is reducing reliance on more expensive traditional sensors, such as LiDAR and radar. Since many Hyundai and Kia models already come with built-in UWB modules — especially those with Digital Key 2 functionality — adopting the technology can happen without adding additional hardware.
Beyond real-time detection, Vision Pulse integrates predictive algorithms capable of tracking several moving objects simultaneously, including at high speed. This capability expands the application of the technology to advanced driver assistance systems, contributing to a higher level of safety in complex urban environments.
Companies also highlight Vision Pulse’s potential outside of the automotive sector. The technology can be used in industrial environments, to prevent collisions between vehicles and workers in warehouses or factories, as well as in disaster relief operations, helping to locate people under rubble.
To showcase this innovation, Hyundai and Kia launched a video campaign demonstrating the use of Vision Pulse in school buses, with a particular focus on child protection. The project includes UWB keyrings in the shape of a “guardian angel”, which can be attached to backpacks and also serve as night lights, thus encouraging regular charging of the device.
With Vision Pulse, Hyundai Motor and Kia strengthen their investment strategy in digital safety solutions combining high precision, rapid responsiveness and economic viability, paving the way for a new stage in the development of driver assistance.
Source and images: Hyundai Motor Company. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
