Toyota and Uber have decided to join hands for bringing an autonomous self-ride technology and service in the market, including an investment worth $500 million by Toyota. The agreement encompasses the Uber’s self-riding technology to be used in Toyota’s Sienna minivans and then to be deployed on the ride-hailing network of the company.
Dara Khosrowshahi, in a statement, told that this is one of the first deals for Uber and will help in further improving Uber’s image, especially after the fatal self-driving accident happened in March.
“Uber’s advanced technology and Toyota’s commitment to safety and its renowned manufacturing prowess make this partnership a natural fit. I look forward to seeing what our teams accomplish together,” said Khosrowshahi.
This substantial deal is on everyone’s mouth and is named as “Autono-MaaS” by the fellow companies which means autonomous-mobility as a service.
Toyota persists a dual approach for its autonomous vehicles which it has named as “Guardian” and “Chauffeur”. This Japanese automaker envisions in building a network of fully autonomous cars which would, in turn, serve the aging and disabled population. For this, the “guardian” technology will work in the background.
MSPF (mobile services platform) would be used by Toyota as a core information infrastructure for connected vehicles. Elaborating about the same, Toyota Research Institute’s CEO, Dr. Gill Pratt said, “Uber’s automated driving system and Toyota’s guardian system will independently monitor the vehicle environment and real-time situation, enhancing overall vehicle safety for both the automated driver and the vehicle.”
