Facebook be warned, Toyota is creating a new social networking site, and it is catering to more than just humans. That's right, the new "Toyota Friend" system is a social network where humans and cars can interact on a daily basis, and it looks like it has quite a bit to offer users. To create this new, unique social networking experience, Toyota has teamed with Microsoft and the San Francisco based Salesforce.com.
Recently, Toyota offered the public a chance to experience their new social network, officially dubbed "Toyota Friend," first hand. At the demonstration, onlookers watched as a vehicle owner received a message from his plug-in Prius, which was aptly named "Pre-boy." In the message, Pre-boy requested that his owner give him an overnight charge so that he would be ready for traveling the next day. After being plugged in, Pre-boy expressed his gratitude in another message, saying, "The charge will be complete by 2:15 a.m. Is that OK? See you tomorrow."1
While there is no doubt that this sort of system would help drivers to take better care of their vehicles, it does seem a little creepy that the car sounds so human, right? We can't help but have flashbacks to moments from Christine. Maybe if the car sounded like KITT (the car from Knight Rider) we would feel at ease.
Pop culture references aside, this new system actually sounds like it will help owners take better care of their vehicles. And after all, with new cars being such a considerable investment, doesn't it makes sense to develop something to help car-buyers get the most out of their ride? That is exactly what Toyota thought, as they designed the "Toyota Friend" system to alert drivers when maintenance is required or when an inspection is due. This way drivers aren't in the dark about what is going on with their car.
We're not entirely sure when "Toyota Friend" will bring Toyota's lineup to life, but we do know that it will be initially exclusive to the Japanese market in EVs and plug-in hybrids. After that Toyota will branch the system out into other models and markets as they see fit. But, if you are determined to make friends with a Corolla or 4Runner now, feel free to come on down to Mark Toyota - 1765 Park Ave Plover, WI 54467. And remember to stay tuned for more from Toyota!
Source: 1 http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/23/toyota-friend-social-network_n_865437.html
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