TMC, Microsoft form partnership for next-generation telematics
Toyota Motor (TMC) and Microsoft have formed a strategic partnership to build a global platform for the Japanese auto makers' next-generation telematics services using the Windows Azure platform.
The telematics system will combine telecommunications and information technologies in vehicles incorporating GPS systems, energy management and other multimedia technologies.
As part of the partnership, the two companies plan to invest JPY1bn ($12m) in Toyota Media Service, a TMC unit that handles its digital offerings for customers.
Both the companies aim to help develop and deploy telematics applications on the Windows Azure platform, which includes Windows Azure and Microsoft SQL Azure.
TMC's goal is to set up a complete global cloud platform by 2015 that will provide affordable and advanced telematics services to Toyota automotive customers worldwide.
As part of its smart-grid activities, aimed at achieving a low-carbon society through efficient energy use, TMC is conducting trials in Japan of its Toyota Smart Center pilot program, which plans to link people, automobiles and homes for integrated control of energy consumption.
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said partnership with TMC is a great example of how the company continues to invest in the automotive industry and of their commitment to power the services that are important to consumers.
"It further validates the power of the cloud, as the Windows Azure platform will provide the enterprise-grade, scalable platform that TMC needs to deliver telematics in its automobiles worldwide," Ballmer said.
TMC president Akio Toyoda said this new partnership with Microsoft is an important step in developing greater future mobility and energy management for consumers around the world.
"Creating these more efficient, more environmentally advanced products will be our contribution to society," Toyoda said.
"To achieve this, it is important to develop a new link between vehicles, people and smart center energy-management systems."
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