Seoul, February 2, 2026 – Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation announced the development of Vision Pulse, a new vehicle 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 UWB modules installed in vehicles to transmit radio signals and accurately calculate the position of other vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians that also carry compatible modules, found in some smartphones, wearable devices, and trackers. By measuring signal propagation time, Vision Pulse identifies collision risks and issues alerts almost instantaneously.
According to the automakers, the technology achieves accuracy of up to 10 centimeters within a range of 100 meters, with communication times between 1 and 5 milliseconds. Even under adverse conditions such as heavy rain, fog, or nighttime driving, the system maintains accuracy levels above 99%.
One of Vision Pulse’s main differentiators is the reduced reliance on higher-cost traditional sensors such as LiDAR and radar. As many Hyundai and Kia models already feature integrated UWB modules — especially those equipped with the Digital Key 2 functionality — the technology can be adopted without the need for additional hardware.
In addition to real-time detection, Vision Pulse incorporates predictive algorithms capable of simultaneously tracking multiple moving objects, even at high speeds. This feature expands the technology’s application in advanced driver assistance systems, contributing to a higher level of safety in complex urban environments.
The companies also highlight Vision Pulse’s potential beyond automotive use. The technology can be applied in industrial settings, helping prevent collisions between vehicles and workers in warehouses or factories, as well as in disaster response operations, assisting in locating people trapped under debris.
To showcase the innovation, Hyundai and Kia launched a video campaign demonstrating the use of Vision Pulse in school buses, with a focus on child protection. The project includes UWB key fobs in the shape of a “guardian angel,” which can be attached to backpacks and also function as night lights, encouraging regular charging of the device.
With Vision Pulse, Hyundai Motor and Kia reinforce their strategy of investing in digital safety solutions that combine high precision, fast response, and economic viability, pointing to 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.
