Toyota's Pathway to Software Sustainability: Internal Expertise and Authentic Customer Interaction

In the era of the internet, cars have evolved to become more connected than ever, with communication devices now standard in most vehicles. This electronification trend is not lost on the automobile industry, which is currently focusing on automated driving, electrification, and connectivity. Toyota, a global leader in the automotive sector, is no exception.

Toyota's upcoming redesigned model, the NX, is a testament to this shift. Equipped with multimedia systems and connected services functions, the NX is set to redefine the driving experience. The company's commitment to connectivity is further evident in its ambitious software development plans.

Toyota aims to establish a global software development structure with 3,000 employees, coordinating efforts with Woven Planet, Toyota Connected, and overseas development bases. This move is part of a broader strategy to promote software development on a global scale.

The company's principle of self-reliance extends to the realm of software and connected technologies. Toyota has built its own call center, Toyota Smart Center, Toyota Big Data Center, Mobility Services Platform (MSPF), and is providing a variety of services.

Toyota's focus on connected cars and technologies is not solely for the sake of connectivity. The company aims to utilise customer and vehicle data for the happiness of customers and the development of society, while creating new value from experiences centered on mobility.

Connected technologies are expected to contribute significantly to carbon neutrality by promoting energy-efficient and resource-efficient cars. In line with this, Toyota has made steady progress in internalizing hydrogen-related technologies such as fuel cell stacks and hydrogen tanks.

The e-Palette, introduced at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020, is a prime example of Toyota's commitment to connected technology. The battery electric vehicle, capable of automated driving, was developed with a fleet management system based on the principles of the Toyota Production System.

The new NX will also benefit from connected technologies, with the capability of OTA (over-the-air) updates of its software. This feature ensures the vehicle remains up-to-date with the latest software improvements, enhancing its functionality and safety systems.

Toyota's vision for the connected car extends beyond mere connectivity. The company values a people-centered approach, or "human connected". This vision is rooted in Toyota's goal of providing mobility for all and inspiring experiences, a mantra that reflects the company's commitment to the "production of happiness for all".

The application of connected technologies is not limited to the car itself. Toyota envisions a future where these technologies are applied to a variety of areas, connecting not just cars, but people, communities, and society as well.

In 2022, Toyota has been focusing on the development of connected and software-related technologies within the automotive sector, emphasizing global expansion and strategic partnerships to strengthen its market position in engineering software and related technological solutions for manufacturing and automotive industries. The company's approach aligns with the broader industry trend of integrating AI, IoT, and advanced semiconductor technology to enhance vehicle functionalities and safety systems.

However, specific details about Toyota's unique proprietary initiatives in 2022 were not directly found in the provided results. Nonetheless, with Keiji Yamamoto, Toyota's Chief Product Integration Officer, discussing the company's software and connected initiatives at a press briefing on August 25, it is clear that Toyota is at the forefront of the connected car revolution.

By properly maintaining vehicles based on data collected at the source, Toyota aims to increase vehicle longevity, battery recyclability, and reusability. This approach underscores Toyota's commitment to sustainability and its vision for a connected, sustainable, and people-centered future.

Toyota's Pathway to Software Sustainability: Internal Expertise and Authentic Customer Interaction