Toyota Dual-Brand Telematics Available 2009
Toyota is meeting with GM OnStar head on as it introduces its own telematics systems aptly called Safety Connect and Lexus Enform.
The Japanese car maker showcased the different features during the Consumer Electrics Show in Las Vegas.
The Toyota vehicles will have the Safety Connect which uses GPS and cellular phone signals for help. An operator will call the driver if the airbags of the car deploy or if a severe tail end collision happens. The operator will call 911 in case the driver does not answer and the location of the car will be given.
During cases where the system is not automatically triggered, the occupants of the vehicle can press the SOS button to contact the emergency services. This can also be used if the occupants encounter engine problem on the road and needs help.
The system will also have a Stolen Vehicle Location feature which will help the owner and authorities trace the location of the carnapped vehicle.
The Enform service which will be installed in the luxury brand Lexus will have all the standard features of the Safety Connect. The concept is like having a personal car concierge which can help the occupants with directions or maybe recommendations of the coolest places to go to. These features are the essentials of the Destination Assist and eDestination features.
After making the choices, the navigation system will then guide the driver to get to the chosen destinations. Plans can also be made using a pc via the eDestination service which can send the data to the navigation system of the car. These high end features will be included with the Lexus Flexible Voice Interface which is said to debut on the 2010 RX model.
A one year free trial will be given after which owners must subscribe to the services.