The arrival of the TomTom LINK 100 opens up opportunities for smarter driving apps to be developed as well as usage-based insurance products and even vehicle maintenane and technical services.
The device is said to be easy to install and LINK 100 logs vehicle diagnostic information, such as engine rpm, load and temperature, directly from the on-board diagnostic port. The integrated 3D accelerometer logs driving behavioural data.
By providing access to real-time information the LINK 100 will enable the automotive, leasing, insurance and roadside assistance industries to create products that allow the end-user to benefit from connected car technology.
This is set to include smartphone apps that measure the driver’s performance to help them identify areas of improvement whilst maintaining privacy.
The LINK 100, which also offers accident detection and crash logs, is also expected to aid the evolution of usage-based insurance products and solutions, which can help the leasing industry reduce risk.
For car manufacturers and dealerships, it will mean the ability to offer ongoing maintenance and technical services, based on information gathered from the vehicle.
‘The possibilities offered by the connected vehicle are virtually limitless,’ said Thomas Schmidt, managing director, TomTom Business Solutions.
‘Roadside assistance companies, for example, could use the available data to ensure the most appropriate responder is sent out to each incident based on the exact nature of the breakdown but any number of different industries may imagine alternative uses for the wealth of available data.’
The product will be made available before the end of the year.
