Client Challenge
As vehicles became more connected and feature-rich, Toyota needed a unified digital experience that could bring together remote services, navigation tools, vehicle diagnostics, and personalized features within a single mobile platform. Key challenges included:
Creating a multi-platform digital companion app (iOS and Android)
Providing seamless connectivity between drivers and their vehicles
Integrating remote controls, navigation, and vehicle health monitoring
Delivering a user-friendly interface that matches Toyota’s global brand standards
Supporting millions of users across diverse market
Role and Approach
Members of the ELEK+RIK team contributed to the development of Toyota’s connected car ecosystem within a large, multi-vendor engineering environment. Their work supported UX enhancements, mobile development, cloud-based features, and connected services integration.
Key contributions included:
Key aspects of our approach included:
User-Centered UX/UI Design
Helping shape intuitive, safety-focused interfaces designed around driver needs.
Native Mobile Development
Supporting components for iOS and Android, optimized for performance and reliability.
Connected Features
Assisting with the integration of remote vehicle controls, navigation, and vehicle health insights into a cohesive digital experience.
Scalable Architecture
Contributing to cloud and backend elements designed to support millions of users globally.
Continuous Collaboration
Working closely with product teams, connected services engineers, and external vendors to maintain alignment with Toyota’s evolving digital strategy.
Key App Features
Voice-Controlled Navigation (Drive Connect)
Drivers can use natural voice commands (e.g., “Hey Toyota, find the nearest rest stop”) to access cloud-based navigation and live agent support.
Remote Vehicle Control (Remote Connect)
Lock/unlock doors, start the engine, adjust climate, and activate lights or horn directly from the app.
Smartwatch Integration
Start or stop your engine from your smartwatch for ultimate convenience.
Last Parked Location
Find your vehicle instantly, with integration of nearby stations, rentals, and dealers.
Vehicle Health Monitoring
Check tire pressure, fuel levels, doors, and windows remotely.
Digital Key & Guest Access
Share digital keys with family members or set restrictions for guest drivers.
Cross-Platform Availability
Optimized for iOS, Android, and wearable devices.
Results & Impact
Through the combined work of multiple vendors and engineering teams, Toyota’s connected vehicle app achieved:
Millions of downloads, becoming a core part of the modern Toyota ownership experience
Greater driver convenience, with remote access and interactive features
Higher engagement, driven by navigation, health monitoring, and remote controls
Improved brand loyalty, reinforcing Toyota as a leader in connected mobility
A unified digital touchpoint, enabling drivers to interact with their vehicles from anywhere
Key Takeaways
1
ELEK+RIK team members have contributed to large-scale automotive digital ecosystems
2
Voice control, remote services, and diagnostics create high-value experiences for drivers
3
Wearable support and cloud connectivity drive next-generation mobility solutions
4
Collaboration across multi-vendor teams is essential for global automotive platforms
Work With a Connected Car App Development Partner
Looking to create a connected vehicle app that blends convenience, safety, and digital innovation? ELEK+RIK specializes in automotive app development, UX design, and connected mobility solutions. Contact us today to bring your vision to life.
