Digital over metal, one in three Hyundai owners opts for virtual keys

Hyundai Motor India has announced that 33 per cent of its customers have opted for the Digital Key feature, signalling a shift in buyer preferences towards smartphone-enabled access over traditional car keys. The feature is currently offered in select variants of the

Hyundai ALCAZAR

and CRETA Electric. This feature was first introduced in September 2024 with the Alcazar and was later expanded to the Creta EV in January 2025. The digital key operates on Near Field Communication (NFC) technology and allows car owners to lock, unlock and start their vehicles using smartphones, smartwatches or a dedicated NFC card.Data shared by the company shows 68 per cent of users are accessing the service through iOS devices, while 32 per cent use Android. Notably, 35 per cent of enrolled customers are actively sharing the Digital Key with family members or friends. The digital key sharing permits sharing with up to three users or seven devices at a time, with the ability to revoke access when required.The enrolment figures come at a time when automakers in India are expanding the use of connected car features to appeal to younger, tech-savvy buyers. Industry analysts point out that while premium cars have long offered smart entry systems, digital keys linked to personal devices are still a new development in the mass market. Hyundai was among the first automakers to introduce connected car technology in India in 2019 and continues to integrate digital services into its portfolio.

So how does this system work? Customers can generate a virtual key through the

Hyundai BlueLink app

. Once activated, the device can be tapped on the car’s handle to lock or unlock the doors and placed on the wireless charging pad to start the engine. The company highlighted the feature’s convenience in reducing dependence on physical keys and providing flexibility through controlled access. As mentioned previously, this Digital Key feature is currently available in higher variants of the Alcazar and Creta EV. The Digital Key is expected to be extended to more models such as Creta ICE, next-gen Venue, Verna and more. With nearly one in three buyers opting for it, Hyundai sees the technology as a step towards increasing digital integration in its product lineup and strengthening its position in India’s competitive automotive market.

Mr. Unsoo Kim, Managing Director - HMIL, said: "At Hyundai Motor India, innovation is driven by purpose, offering meaningful solutions that elevate customer experience. As the first OEM to launch connected car technology in India back in 2019, we remain committed to democratizing premium features for Indian customers. The enthusiastic response to Digital Key reaffirms our belief in creating technology that adds real value to everyday life."