Toyota Open Labs Announces First Cohort of Innovators
Startups are at the forefront of the innovation needed to drive the EV market into its next phase. Recognising this, Toyota Open Labs was created as a dynamic platform to connect these innovators with Toyota's vast ecosystem of business units. The goal is clear: To scale groundbreaking ideas and lead the market into a new era of mobility.
The program isn't just about nurturing new ideas—it's a vital part of Toyota's strategic transformation into a full-fledged mobility company. Through the Open Labs initiative, Toyota is deepening its expertise in critical areas such as energy efficiency, the circular economy, carbon-neutral technologies and building smart, inclusive communities.
Fueling the future of mobility
Toyota Open Labs has just made waves in the innovation community by announcing its first-ever cohort for an exciting new open innovation platform. The line up includes six groundbreaking startups — Andyamo, Okeenea, Genny Mobility, hlpy, Hive Power and Shippeo — all set to present their innovations at Toyota Open Labs' Demo Day in Paris on 4 September, 2024.
These innovators will showcase their progress and visions for the future of energy, the circular economy, carbon neutrality, smart communities and mobility.
A collaborative powerhouse
Monica Perez Lobo, VP of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Toyota Motor Europe is enthusiastic about the initiative, Says: "These innovations help solve societal challenges and move mobility forward in specific and tangible ways."
"The power of the Open Labs program is that it brings these startups together with business units across the Toyota ecosystem, allowing us to scale these innovations and contribute to a sustainable future."
Toyota Open Labs is backed by a robust network of partners, including Toyota Tsusho Europe, the trading and supply-chain arm of the Toyota group; KINTO Europe, Toyota's mobility brand; Woven Capital, Toyota's growth-stage venture fund; and the Toyota Mobility Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to advancing mobility for all.
The strong support system ensures that the startups have the resources and guidance they need to bring their visionary ideas to life.
Meet the innovators
The 2024 Toyota Open Labs cohort was carefully selected from a pool of hundreds of applicants, each offering unique solutions to pressing challenges in mobility:
- Andyamo: A startup revolutionising travel for people with reduced mobility by creating a pedestrian and multimodal trip planner. By integrating data on accessible sidewalks, safe pedestrian crossings and public transport accessibility andyamo makes navigating urban landscapes easier for the elderly, disabled and families with strollers.
- Okeenea: Focused on improving the lives of those with reduced mobility, Okeenea offers innovative accessibility solutions through a mobility assistance application that enhances orientation and navigation in complex, everyday environments.
- Genny Mobility: Genny Mobility has developed the Genny ZERO, a sleek personal transporter that's easy to drive for all users. Featuring redundant self-balancing technology, Genny ZERO continuously maps its position and terrain, advising users on safe navigation.
- HivePower: Leading the charge in grid balancing using Vehicle-to-Grid technology and AI algorithms. Its solutions optimise energy consumption and integrate seamlessly with smart buildings and appliances, pushing the boundaries of energy efficiency.
- hlpy: Modernising roadside assistance, hlpy offers integrated digital solutions. From on-the-spot repairs and emergency EV charging to 24/7 support, it makes breakdowns less stressful with its user-friendly services.
- Shippeo: A global leader in real-time transportation visibility, Shippeo empowers logistics providers with precise, sustainable and customer-centric supply chains. Its cutting-edge technology offers instant shipment tracking, accurate ETA predictions and efficient issue management.
A glimpse into the future
At the Demo Day in Paris, these innovative startups will showcase the work they've accomplished in collaboration with Toyota's business units.
Expect insightful discussions on the advancements made, the challenges overcome and what lies ahead for the mobility industry. Don't miss your chance to witness the future of mobility.
*******************
Make sure you check out the latest edition of EV Magazine and also sign up to our global conference series - Sustainability LIVE 2024.
*******************
EV Magazine is a BizClik brand