Kia India's Software Strategy: What AIS 189 and AIS 190 Add
Cover image: a generic unbranded right-hand-drive vehicle cabin, created for illustration. It does not depict a Kia model, software screen or official interface.
Kia India is making software support part of its connected-car ownership strategy. In an official announcement dated 14 October 2026, the company says it received AIS 189 and AIS 190 Confirmation of Compliance certifications from ARAI for its vehicle portfolio.
The development gives buyers a reason to examine how a carmaker manages software throughout ownership. Alongside equipment and driving comfort, the questions include how updates are validated, how customers receive guidance and how concerns reach the right support team.
What do AIS 189 and AIS 190 cover?
According to Kia's explanation, AIS 189 concerns its cybersecurity management system, including risk assessment, governance, incident handling and monitoring. AIS 190 concerns its software-update management system, covering update planning, validation, deployment, protection and traceability.
These processes are relevant to how the manufacturer organises continuing support. At the showroom, ask the dealer to explain what this means for your selected model and grade, using the owner's documentation and the manufacturer's published update guidance.
Why this belongs in Kia's ownership strategy
Our assessment is that Kia is strengthening the support proposition around connected features. A convincing demonstration helps sell a feature; clear guidance and dependable support help an owner continue using it confidently.
The announcement describes continuing risk monitoring, staff development, internal audits and incident preparedness. Those activities point to ongoing organisational work. Commercial progress should be assessed through how well the company explains and supports its technology in everyday ownership, alongside separately reported sales results.
For a buyer comparing cars, this suggests a practical approach: ask the salesperson to demonstrate both the feature and the route to help when something needs attention. Keep that information with the ownership documents.
Keep the technology shortlist within your budget. Check an indicative eligible amount and estimated EMI with AutoCred's eligibility checker before shortlisting or visiting a dealer. Results are indicative; final eligibility, rate, tenure and approval depend on the lender.
What should buyers ask about software updates?
Kia's release refers to eligible over-the-air updates. Ask which updates apply to the car you are ordering, how the car notifies you and when dealer assistance is needed. Request an explanation of installation conditions and where to find the update information.
Also check which connected functions are included in the quoted specification and whether continuing charges apply to the services you plan to use. Have the dealer record the relevant terms. Make the decision around the features and support available for that vehicle.
How does Kia describe its reporting process?
Kia's published Vulnerability Disclosure Policy sets out a process for reporting potential cybersecurity issues involving specified India vehicles, applications, websites and related digital services under its control.
For ordinary ownership assistance, ask the dealer to identify the appropriate customer-support channel. Before taking delivery, check that you understand account setup, the owner's instructions and how to obtain help with a software notification. Those details make the support proposition easier to evaluate.
Before booking your preferred car: use AutoCred's eligibility checker for an indicative eligible amount and estimated EMI before finalising your shortlist or dealer visit. Keep room for ongoing ownership spending. Results are indicative; final eligibility, rate, tenure and approval depend on the lender.
