Safety Connect

Overhead module of Lexus IS 250 with Safety Connect emergency assistance (SOS) button

Safety Connect is a subscription-based telematics system introduced by Toyota Motor Corporation in 2009 for its Toyota-branded and Lexus models. The system provides communications, roadside assistance, car safety, remote diagnostics, and other services. Unlike the earlier Lexus Link service offered on Lexus models, the Safety Connect system is proprietary and not licensed from GM's OnStar service. Safety Connect began to be offered on vehicles in the middle of 2009.[1] For Toyota vehicles, the Safety Connect service is offered including the aforementioned features as part of the Toyota Entune telematics package, while Lexus models receive the Lexus Enform telematics system with Safety Connect, adding hands free calling, and destination assistance services. Vehicles equipped with Safety Connect come with a one-year subscription included at purchase, which can then be renewed annually.[2] Following its offering in the U.S., the telematics service will also be available in Brazil and China.[3]

Technology

Lexus LS navigation screen showing Destination Assist, part of Lexus Enform with Safety Connect

Safety Connect includes four primary functions:[4]

These functions utilize Safety Connect's embedded GPS and cellular signaling technology.[5] The automatic collision notification will signal for help if airbag deployment or a collision is detected.[5] Alternatively, the SOS button can be used to contact rescue services. A 24-hour call center with law enforcement linkage also can track the location of a stolen vehicle via the Safety Connect GPS signal.[5] For Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, additional functions added include Destination Assist, eDestination, Flexible Voice Interface, and others.[3] The Enform system allows drivers to pre-select destinations at home and send routes wirelessly from their computer to the vehicle.[6]

The Safety Connect system is based on Toyota's Japanese domestic market subscription-based G-Book service, which provides emergency assistance, information, wireless, cell phone, and PC linkages,[7] while the Lexus Enform system is derived from G-Link, a telematics service with Lexus call center support, song library, remote access, and other features.[4][8][9]

Vehicles

Interior of 3rd generation Prius, with Safety Connect links in overhead console.

Models that have adopted the Safety Connect system to date, listed by model year:

Selected models began offering the service in August 2009. Models that have adopted Lexus Enform with Safety Connect:

See also

Interior of Lexus RX, fitted with Lexus Enform with Safety Connect

References

  1. ↑ TMS Announces Telematics Programs: Safety Connect Available on Select Models in 2009
  2. ↑ "Toyota Tries Proprietary Telematics". Wards Auto. Retrieved 2009-07-31.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Lexus Brings Concierge Service to U.S.". Wards Auto. Retrieved 2009-07-31.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 "Toyota Safety Connect, Lexus Enform Take Aim At GM OnStar With New Service - Toyota Safety Connect". Jalopnik. Retrieved 2009-07-31.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "Toyota Safety Connect and Lexus Enform". Consumer Guide Auto. Retrieved 2009-07-31.
  6. ↑ ""Tech Tuesdays: Road Testing the Latest Telematics Services from Ford and Lexus" Edmunds Daily". Edmunds.com. Retrieved 2009-11-20.
  7. ↑ http://wirelesswatch.jp/2007/04/16/toyota-announces-new-g-book-telematics/
  8. ↑ "Toyota G-Book". Gizmo Highway Auto Guide. Retrieved 2009-07-31.

External links

External video
CNET overview of Lexus Enform with Safety Connect