In order to offer telematics service such as navigation, remote diagnostics, safety, information access, context awareness, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC (News - Alert)) launches next-generation telematics services in emerging markets around the world, starting with Thailand in March 2012. These services will use a global cloud platform. The rollout will start in 2012, under co-development by TMC and United States-based Microsoft (News - Alert) Corporation.

According to a press release, the new platform will function as information infrastructure for next-generation telematics services designed for use in TMC-produced electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles scheduled for launch in Japan and the United States. The company is starting telematics services in Thailand and later on company will use the same platform and will represent the first step in TMC's plan to progressively expand provision of such services to other emerging markets, where infrastructure could be limited.

The services for Thailand will be designed for use with smartphones but will also be accessible by linking a smartphone and an onboard Audio Display system. It allows use both inside and outside the vehicle. In addition, as an onboard navigation system is not required for use, TMC will be able to offer onboard systems at lower prices.

This platform includes navigation system routing service, currently available in Japan and China, which uses traffic information to help the user avoid traffic congestion.

TMC will also launch two services currently available in Japan, China, and the United States: A routing service that allows users to have an operator set a destination, and an emergency notification service for requesting assistance in the event of an accident or other emergency.