Safety Connect Telematics Comes to Toyota Vehicles

Autos Articles | January 17, 2009

Toyota used the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas to introduce its all-new telematics system for both Toyota and Lexus brands.

The systems, called Safety Connect and Enform respectively, will allow Toyota drivers to access emergency services and other data to provide additional safety in the event of a crash or other emergency. Toyota’s new system is poised to compete directly with GM’s OnStar system.

Toyota is hoping that the Safety Connect telematics system will become one of the most sought after Toyota accessories available to buyers. Already GM offers its own OnStar system throughout its numerous brands, and Toyota hopes to offer a system that is comparable in terms of safety and customer service.

While Toyota brand vehicles get Safety Connect, a similar system on Lexus vehicles is named Enform. While each system is similar, the Lexus Enform will be slightly different in that it will offer more data, such as weather data and route guidance. The Enfore system will also provide local points of interest and even information on Zagat-rated restaurants.

The new telematics system from Toyota features cellular and GPS technology to notify an operator automatically in the event that an airbag is be deployed. If there is no response from a vehicle occupant, the operator will then notify emergency services. If the car is stolen, Durango Toyota says the system can also help police locale the vehicle. Roadside assistance can also be reached at the press of a button.

Select Toyota and Lexus models will be available with Safety Connect and Enform late this summer. Los Angeles Toyota dealers expect many buyers to continue to subscribe to the system at the end of its trial periord which lasts for one year.

Article Tags: Safety Connect Telematics, Safety Connect, Connect Telematics

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joe Kent is a writer for TK Carsites, an automotive website design and marketing firm in Orange, CA, that specializes in working with car dealers nationwide.