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Connectivity technologies make motoring safer and give more peace of mind to Toyota owners

Connectivity is a popular term in use today; in the context of the car, it refers to the ability for different electronic devices to interface and interact. Connectivity in earlier days could be said to have started from the radio sending broadcasts that could be received on the radio in the car. As time went on, drivers could also connect their own devices to listen to a personal selection of music, usually via a cable and then wirelessly by Bluetooth.

Today, connectivity is at a far more advanced level as connections can be made to the internet with wireless broadband services, and smartphone apps can also be mirrored on the infotainment system of the car. The location of the vehicle can also be determined precisely – anywhere on the planet – using GPS (Global Positioning by Satellite) systems.

*Today’s connectivity technologies in cars can bring smartphone apps to the dashboard and even connect to the internet for information and entertainment.*

Carmakers have used these new technologies to the fullest to make motoring safer and also give drivers more peace of mind. For Toyota owners, the GPS technology is used not only for route guidance and navigation systems that make it easier to find a location but also for enhanced vehicle security.

Toyota Vehicle Telematics System
This is the Toyota Vehicle Telematics System (VTS) available in many models today. It was introduced by the UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) in 2019. With VTS, the vehicle’s location is monitored using GPS, and its location can be pinpointed on a mobile application. This means that it will be easier for relevant authorities to find the vehicle in the event it is stolen.

Furthermore, VTS is also able to detect an impact experienced by the vehicle. This would suggest an accident, in which case emergency services may be dispatched by the 24/7 command centre to the scene, speeding up rescue actions and perhaps saving a life.

VTS also allows vehicle owners to review their trip history with minute-to-minute reports. They can know the distance covered and overall duration of their journey – useful for those who make claims for travelling expenses. The mobile application. Which can track multiple vehicles, can also review driving patterns during each journey as well as set driving parameters as safety measures with younger or new drivers.

“Connected mobility is a concept that is revolutionizing the automotive industry and it essentially brings greater peace of mind with the ownership of a car. This enables the driver to form somewhat of a personal and unique relationship with his vehicle, an interaction that was never available 20 to 30 years ago,” said Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.

*Toyota’s use of connectivity technologies provides more peace of mind when travelling long distances as assistance is immediately available should an emergency occur.*

Toyota 24Seven Road Assist
UMWT also offers vehicle owners Toyota 24Seven Road Assist via its mobile application, an industry first. This is an evolution of what used to be ‘a call away’ for around-the-clock roadside assistance. With almost everyone having a smartphone these days, the mobile app is more convenient and all it takes is just a few swipes on the phone to get immediate assistance.

“We have been providing our customers with Toyota 24Seven Road Assist for the last 20 years. This is a service that continually undergoes enhancements to ensure that they never have to worry when they are on the road. As mobile technology grows more advanced, naturally the next logical step would be to introduce a mobile application that would bring this service to the next higher level,” said Mr. Ravindran.

Toyota 24Seven Road Assist is not just for the time when accidents occur but can even be called upon if the vehicle has run out of fuel or has a puncture. This is certainly a welcome support service when on a long journey. A request via the mobile app will bring help quickly and because the location is known via GPS, it is easier for the support team to find the vehicle.

Free minor on-the-spot repairs and nationwide towing (up to 50 kms) are offered to all Toyota owners using Toyota 24Seven Road Assist (terms and conditions apply).

A key feature built into the mobile app is an SOS button with a real-time tracking feature. Users have the ability track the travel route and time of the help that is on the way to them. Further assurance is in the fact that the help is from a trusted authorised Toyota outlet or service provider. If necessary, Toyota’s Freephone number 1-800-888-247 can be used to speak to a human operator, 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

“As technology advances, so will cars. This is inevitable, and we have seen vehicles rapidly evolving over the last 20 to 30 years to becoming increasingly safer, cleaner, more economical, offering better performance, to now growing even more intelligent and are able to provide greater forms of interaction with the driver. Suffice to say that transportation and communication will become increasingly reliant on one another moving forward in an era of seamless and connected mobility,” said UMW Toyota Motor Deputy Chairman, Akio Takeyama.

UMW Toyota Motor introduces Toyota Synergised Mobility to present a new aspect of the brand

Clive Sutton customises the LEVC TX to become the world’s most luxurious taxi

The Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (commonly referred to as Geely) now owns many car companies, including Proton, but did you know that it also owns a company in England that originally produced the famous Black Cabs. Known today as the London EV Company Limited (LEVC), it was acquired in 2013 and has focussed on developing electrically-powered commercial vehicles.

Environment-friendly taxis
LEVC continues to produce taxis but they are environment-friendly vehicles now with zero emission electric powertrains. Due to their iconic background, the taxis are sometimes used for more than just ordinary transport and are purchased for more personalised use. One company which specialises in turning them into luxury models is luxury car specialist Clive Sutton.

Customisation for VIP taxis
The company’s bespoke coachbuilding division has developed customisation options for VIP LEVC Taxis. These can be appointed like a private jet for the road, with separated driver and passenger compartments. Customers can opt for a long list of luxury fittings from leather-clad, electronically-reclining heated rear seats with footrests, to a fibreoptic starlight roof, or electronic self-closing doors. Other features include built-in umbrella holders and a high-quality audio system.

Multiple seating configurations
The Sutton Bespoke team has created multiple configurations in which the taxi can be ordered. Customers can choose from a 4, 3, or even an ultra-spacious 2-seat set-up with a drinks fridge, on-board WiFi and Bluetooth as standard. Privacy can be upgraded as part of an optional exterior package that includes smoke-tinted rear windows, while a PlayStation or Xbox can be added for those with younger ones. The console is connected to a 20-inch media screen that is incorporated within a leather-clad divider, which separates the front and rear compartments.

“While many of our clients seek power, performance and stand-out style, another portion prefer discreet, unique, customisable luxury. Our Sutton VIP LEVC Taxi enables the most comfortable, spacious and private journey through the city with extravagant features usually reserved for superyachts and private jets,” said Clive Sutton, Founder and CEO of the company.

ECity range-extender
The LEVC TX Taxi uses the company’s ECity technology and is powered by an electric motor which drives the rear wheels. The motor is powered by a 31 kWh Drive Battery supported by a range-extender. This is an on-board generator (a small 1.5 litre petrol engine) that recharges the battery when required, and provides greater usability and flexibility than pure electric operation.

Running only on electric power on a typical driving pattern, the TX has a pure electric range equivalent to many of today’s BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles). To further maximise the range offered by driving on electrical power, there is also regenerative coasting and braking. The braking system harnesses energy that would usually be lost while slowing down, and uses it to recharge the drive battery. This increases efficiency and reduces wear on braking components.

Another limited edition GT-R from Nissan

It was 2007 when Nissan unveiled the GT-R at the Tokyo Motor Show, which makes it 14 years now that it has been in production. In comparison, the last Nissan Z was in production for 11 years and a new one was revealed last month for sale in 2022. However, the appeal of the GT-R has not diminished all these years, kept glowing by successes on the racetrack.

Over the years, Nissan has introduced special editions to keep interest high and also as evolutionary updates. Typically, performance has been improved in various areas, usually with work done by NISMO.

*Unveiling of the Nissan GT-R at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007.*

JDM only
The latest edition unveiled today is for the Japanese market only, although some units might appear overseas eventually. This new version comes in two grades – GT-R Premium Edition T-spec and GT-R Track Edition Engineered by NISMO T-spec.

The two editions are equipped with exclusive carbon ceramic brakes, a carbonfibre rear spoiler and an exclusive engine cover. Customers will be able to choose from two new body colours, Midnight Purple and Millennium Jade, as part of the T-spec options.

‘Trend’ and ‘Traction’
‘T-spec’ refers to ‘trend and traction’, the former relating to the GT-R as being ahead of the times, and the latter to the robust grip which the engineers have always worked hard on. Developed with a focus on enhanced driving performance, the GT-R Track Edition engineered by NISMO T-spec is specially equipped with an exclusive carbonfibre roof and bootlid as well.

Also fitted as Rays forged alloy wheels (bronze), and suspension that takes advantage of weight reductions below the springs. An expanded wheel-rim width has increased tire rigidity, enabling smooth and sensitive handling.

Same 3.8-litre powertrain
Under the bonnet, the Japanese-spec powertrain is used, which is a twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine (VR38DETT) and a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission with all 4 wheels powered. In NISMO tune, the output can be up to 600 ps/637 Nm.

The production run will be limited to only 100 units and as orders are expected to exceed that number when sales start in the second half of October, Nissan will select purchasers by lottery.

Production-ready Nissan GT-R50 by ItalDesign makes debut on track

Using brainwaves to control a vehicle? A future Mercedes-Benz might have it

In the near future, people will be able to travel in cars without humans having to be in control. Perhaps it can no longer be called ‘driving’ if there is no human involved and it is just ‘mobility’. Such autonomous vehicles are already in existence and will grow in numbers.

In looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz also sees way into the future where there could be new dimension of human-vehicle interaction: brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. It sounds like science fiction and it is, but some parts of the technology are already available. BCI will be a new form of machine control, perhaps not in everyday life tomorrow but in areas like medical research. Applications with BCI are considered a viable option for helping people with physical handicaps to become more independent.

Integrated with VISION AVTR
Mercedes-Benz is also looking at the possibility of BCI with vehicles and has integrated it in the VISION AVTR concept vehicle which it first displayed in January last year. It will give a preview of mind control as a new dimension of human interaction with the vehicle. This will use a BCI device attached to the user’s head analyzes the measured brainwaves and triggers a defined function. At the IAA Mobility 21 event in Germany recently, visitors were able to experience controlling the user interface in the vehicle with their own thoughts and interacting with it in real-time.

“Mercedes-Benz is setting another milestone in the merging of man and machine with the research and development of brain-computer interface applications in cars. BCI technology has the potential to further enhance driving comfort in the future, for example,” said Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, responsible for Sales. “Mercedes-Benz has always pioneered intelligent, innovative solutions to provide our customers with the best product and service experience. BCI technology works completely independently of speech and touch. This opens up revolutionary possibilities for intuitive interaction with the vehicle.”

Directly connected to the brain
The biometric interaction with the vehicle is complemented by a direct connection to the human brain. At the IAA, the first approaches to mind control based on visual perception will be demonstrated in the visionary seat mock-up of the VISION AVTR. For this purpose, light dots are projected onto the fully digital dashboard. A BCI device with wearable electrodes attached to the back of the user’s head records brain activity and establishes a direct connection to the vehicle after a one-minute calibration. The brain reacts to the visual stimuli on the dashboard.

The BCI device measures the neuronal activity at the cortex in real time. It analyzes the measured brain waves and recognizes on which light points the user directs his focus and full attention (attention-sensing interface). The stronger the focus, the higher the neuronal activity. The device then triggers the targeted function in the vehicle.

Using several functions linked to BCI technology, visitors experienced how quickly their own brain connects with the vehicle – similar to the neuronal connection between the Na’vi and the nature in the visionary Hollywood blockbuster ‘AVATAR’. By focusing on points of light, they used the power of their thoughts to perform various functions in the digital VISION AVTR worlds displayed on the dashboard: for example, generate wind, grow plants, select parking spaces to charge or turn day into night.

Concept vehicle developed with Disney
The VISION AVTR was previous presented at the 2020 CES in Las Vegas. It was the result of an extraordinary global collaboration between entertainment company Disney and Mercedes-Benz. The name of the concept vehicle stands for ADVANCED VEHICLE TRANSFORMATION which looks at mobility in the distant future.

The stretched ‘one-bow’ design and organic design language combine exterior and interior into an emotional whole. Sustainable materials such as vegan DINAMICA leather made from recycled materials, fast-growing Karuun (rattan) that can only thrive in biodiversity, and organic, compostable battery technology create a closed-loop economy.

33 bionic flaps on the back of the vehicle can communicate with the outside world – with and through the driver – using naturally flowing movements in subtle gestures. Instead of a conventional steering wheel, the VISION AVTR has a multifunctional control element in the centre console. By placing the hand on the control, the interior comes to life and the vehicle recognizes the passenger by their heart rate. Simply raising the hand projects a menu selection onto the palm of the hand, allowing the user to intuitively choose between different functionalities.

The biometric connection enables a completely new interaction between man, machine and nature in the autonomous-driving concept vehicle. Continuing development of the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant and the zero-layer concept of the MBUX Hyperscreen have already simplified vehicle operation. In future, BCI technology could make it possible to relieve the user even more, in order to be able to focus on the driving experience.

Mercedes-Benz puts a ‘Home Theatre’ in the car cabin

Porsche Mission R concept sportscar cockpit can also be a standalone simulator

Even before e-sports or digital motorsports, as the FIA has termed the activity, started to increase to the popular levels of today, carmakers were already using simulators for drivers to train in as well as being a tool for engineers. Time spent in the simulator helps a driver prepare virtually for the next race and become familiar with the environment.

Simulators are usually standalone machines with sophisticated computer hardware and software. But in future, it may be possible to have the simulator as a module which can be used for training and then installed in the car for an actual race.

Physical racing and e-sports merge
This is the idea which Porsche is showcasing its Mission R concept study for a future all-electric GT racing car. In the Mission R, physical racing and e-sports merge as the driver cell monocoque is designed as a self-contained module. It can even be set up outside the car for use in esports events

The seat, steering wheel, controls, adjustable pedals and screens form a compact and lie on the same axis as the driver. This allows the driver to concentrate on essentials during the race. At the same time, this driver module design enables a second driver’s cell to be used outside the Mission R as a racing simulator.

With the aid of movable, electrically controlled supports, the dynamic forces that impact on the driver can be simulated – when braking, for example, or as a result of rolling motions during fast cornering. Due to the familiar surroundings with identical display and control elements and the same full bucket seat, this kind of training can be extremely realistic and highly effective.

3D-printing for racing seat
The full bucket seat offers high protection potential for the driver. At the same time, it has an innovative design and is produced in part using additive manufacturing processes known as 3D-printing. The seat shell is made of the same natural fibre-reinforced material as the add-on parts in the exterior. The centre section of the seat, ie the cushion and backrest, is partly produced by a 3D printer.

Available from Porsche Tequipment
Porsche initially showed this alternative to the conventional upholstery used for bucket seats as a concept study in 2020 and conducted trials with selected customers during a test phase. As part of the new Performance Parts range, the 3D-printed bodyform full bucket seat is now available from Porsche Tequipment for all 911 and 718 models for which the current full bucket is offered.

In the Mission R, the driver’s seat is actively ventilated and upholstered in a breathable fabric that is made using a resource-saving 3D knitting process. The 3D-printed lattice structure also contributes to a good seat climate. These black, coarse-meshed elements are located in the area between the cushion and the backrest.

Maximum driver focus
The key displays and controls are located along the same axis. This reduces distraction and helps the driver to improve performance by speeding up their reaction time. The information is hierarchically clustered into three levels. Top priority is given to the 6-inch multifunction OLED racing display. It sits directly between the steering wheel controls and, as such, is placed in the driver’s immediate field of vision. This is where key data such as speed, lap time, tyre pressures or State of Charge (SoC) are displayed, along with information on ABS and traction control.

A second screen is mounted on the steering column behind it. Its curved shape is reminiscent of the Taycan’s large central display. This is where the images from the two exterior cameras are combined into a single image. Through this digital rear-view mirror, the driver can see what is happening on both sides and behind the racing car. A third, centrally positioned, rear-facing camera is mounted below the rear window.

If radar sensors and cameras detect an imminent collision during the race, the Collision Avoidance System alerts the driver to the danger by means of coloured markings on the edges of the race display.

To the right of the driver and inclined towards them is a control panel with buttons and an integrated screen. It represents the third information level. This is where the driver’s biometric data is displayed. This includes body temperature, which is detected by sensors in the seat.

Also fitted are motorsports equipment such as a 6-point safety harness, longitudinally adjustable pedals, safety nets and an extinguisher system. A special feature is the combination of helmet holder and dryer, allowing it to be disinfected and then dried when not being used in a race. No more sweaty helmets after the race!

For taxi rides, a second seat can be mounted on the passenger side. The control units, including a cooler, which are combined into one electronic module, are located in the footwell. The driver’s water bottle is also integrated into the seating arrangement. The expansion tanks for battery coolant, brake fluid and dampers are all neatly arranged beneath the rear window.

Livestreaming from the cockpit
The interactive possibilities offered by the Mission R are also aimed at the young and enthusiastic motorsports community. It is set up to provide a livestream broadcast from inside the car, and the driver can connect with their fans at the touch of a button. Fans can in turn communicate directly with the driver, for example, by sending them likes in real time.

Two small cameras mounted on the roof frame and on a rail above the passenger seat can show what is happening inside the car during a race in real-time. The live images can be transmitted directly to the community using a livestream button in the control panel.

*The Mission R concept study is proposed with two electric motors able to generate up to 800 kW (1,088 ps) and provides a preview of what future all-electric GT racing cars could be like.*

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Even after you recover from COVID-19 infection, your quality of life may be affected for a long period after that. So do your best to avoid being infected by taking the necessary measures to protect yourself as well as others – and get fully vaccinated.

CUPRA Tavascan Extreme E Concept shows next evolution of e-SUV

CUPRA, the high-performance brand of Spanish carmaker SEAT, was the first carmaker to join the Extreme E all-electric off-road series that started this year, entering in partnership with ABT Sportsline. The 3-year old brand’s involvement is to enhance its R&D while promoting electrification, sustainability, and also gender equality (the series requires each crew to have one male and one female, both to having driving roles).

While the e-SUV used during the current season of Extreme E is one which is common for all teams, CUPRA is already looking ahead when it can develop its own machine. It will become the second manufacturer to use its own bodywork for its team, and Tavascan Extreme E Concept shows what the racing car will look like.

Future design language
It also hints at the design language to be used in the future production CUPRA Tavascan which will be the brand’s second fully electric model designed and developed in Barcelona, Spain and will reach the market in 2024.

“We strongly believe in the Extreme E project as a whole,” said Antonino Labate, Director of Strategy, Business Development and Operations at CUPRA. “Electrification, sustainability, gender-balance and diversity are common values between CUPRA and Extreme E. The CUPRA Tavascan Extreme E Concept is clear proof of the hard work that we’re doing at CUPRA in order to be able to compete next season.”

Completely redesigned exterior
The Tavascan Extreme E Concept integrates a completely new exterior design with 100% CUPRA DNA and a holistic approach to natural material use making it more sustainable, adaptable and easy to repair. The front and rear design has changed considerably from the vehicle that is racing in the first season of Extreme E.

LED technology delivers greater freedom to produce a vehicle with CUPRA DNA, with the headlights in groups of three triangles on either side providing a more imposing look. The LED lighting is set into a 3D-printed frame – a technology chosen to gain a competitive edge. The 3D-printed parts can be manufactured in just 6 hours, meaning the team can adapt to changes very quickly. Whether it’s because of an incident or changes to the light position, the components can be modified in a very short time without the need for cumbersome and expensive tooling.

3D-printed elements for bodywork
“The CUPRA Tavascan Extreme E Concept is the next evolution of our all-electric off-road racing car with even more CUPRA DNA and a design that hints at the brand’s future direction. But it also delivers technical advancement too,” said Head of Technical Development at CUPRA Racing, Xavi Serra. “The concept car uses flax fibres throughout the bodywork to improve sustainability and 3D-printed elements that can be quickly recreated to keep the race car out on the track.”

Constructing as much of the body structure as possible from flax fibres – extracted from the flax plant – reduces the use of carbonfibre components and the vehicle’s impact on the environment. The material can be worked in the same way, achieving the same shapes and radii required by engineers, and is a technology that could easily be adapted for production vehicles.

The e-SUV concept is finished with copper accents – a time-honoured CUPRA mark – parametric texturing and dynamized lines to help the exterior shimmer and move as the vehicle shifts through the landscape, and an overlapping CUPRA logo to create a powerful 3D effect.

“I am delighted to see CUPRA launch the Tavascan Extreme E concept as it enables it to become the second manufacturer to use its own bodywork for its Extreme E team. This move not only injects added style and personality into the series, but also supports our goals for Extreme E to prove itself as a global marketing showcase for partners, as CUPRA prepares to launch this model to consumers in the future,” said Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E.

*The e-SUV used by the ABT CUPRA XE team in the first and current season of Extreme E .*

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Latest News

Connectivity technologies make motoring safer and give more peace of mind to Toyota owners

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