Toyota unveils connected car strategy, holds talks with Mazda to broaden co-operation on EVs

Leading Japanese automaker beyond the conventional vehicle manufacturing and selling business for future growth

Toyota Motor outlined its connected car strategy yesterday (2 November) as part of a web media communication. As part of the strategy, the automaker is looking at three key areas: incorporate internet connectivity as standard equipment in almost all of its cars; establish new sources of revenue from products and services geared toward the connected cars; and offer a range of products and services for Toyota drivers and business partners, including car- and ride-sharing services. Commenting on the plan, senior managing officer Shigeki Tomoyama, who heads Toyota's connected-car operations, said "...while Toyota will maintain its identity as a company that makes and sells cars, it will also wear the hat of a service provider".