Toyota Teams Up With Microsoft on In-Car Tech
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}TORRANCE, Calif. -- One of the world's largest technology companies just linked up with one of the world's biggest car makers.
Toyota announced Wednesday a $12 million partnership with Microsoft aimed at building out the Japanese auto makers’ in-car technology.
The initial investment was a pittance compared to the overall size of the vehicle “infotainment” market, but it was “an important step in developing” the burgeoning technology, according to Toyota President Akio Toyoda.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Toyota is looking to deploy its telematics system, powered by Microsoft’s Azure platform, across its 2012 fleet of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and then establish a global cloud platform within three years.
Telematics services generally include navigation, hands-free telephone and data access, safety communications and driving assistance systems. Toyota also said it plans to add software that helps drivers manage their energy consumption.
Toyota will begin selling a plug-in version of its popular Prius hybrid for model year 2012 along with a RAV4 SUV.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Car makers have turned to the bells and whistles of in-car connectivity to help differentiate themselves in the increasingly competitive new-car market. Toyota rival Ford previously tapped Microsoft to power its Sync system, which has helped Ford burnish its image as a technology leader.