Microsoft Will Build A Cloud Network For Toyota

Microsoft Will Build A Cloud Network For Toyota

Carmaker Toyota and Microsoft have launched a joint program to develop a global network based on cloud technologies.

Japanese concern Toyota and software developer Microsoft announced the launch of a joint project worth $ 12 million. Its essence lies in the improvement of on-board computers for Toyota vehicles through the use of cloud services. The owners of the future cars will have access to streaming music services, Internet access and the ability to remotely monitor the health of the batteries in your car if it is equipped with an electric motor.

Network,  which is going to be built by  Microsoft and Toyota, is based on the cloud platform Windows Azure. Initially the network will be joined by all hybrid and fully electric Toyota cars, model year 2012. A bit later the models that run on hydrocarbon fuels will be added there, too.  The mediate between the two giants will be Toyota Media Service, a subsidiary of Japanese concern. Collaboration is planned for four years and during this time partners will have to create a fully functional telematic system. Its functions will include the exchange of any data, GPS-navigation, mediaservices and control panels of the electric motor in the distance.

Toyota President Akio Toyoda stated that the information infrastructure from Microsoft will greatly increase the efficiency of Japanese cars. According to him, future Toyota models will become mobile information centers, including not only satellite navigation and security system. In his turn, Steve Ballmer, the current head of Microsoft, said that the telematic network, development of which is conducted jointly with Toyota, will be needed not only for entertainment.

Deploying such a network will eliminate the need to update software on cars and to install auxiliary software. Programs will be in the “cloud” and will be provided as a service with access through telematic network, built by Toyota and Microsoft.