Toyota and Mazda will be employing an Orange connected car platform in Europe following a decision by Japanese telecoms firm KDDI to pick the French firm as its European partner.

The Orange Business Services platform have been integrated into KDDI’s own platform. Cloud connections are made using Orange backbone networks.

The Orange solution will initially enable the Japanese automotive manufacturers to offer connected services across 63 European countries and territories, via Orange cellular connectivity. There are 44 countries in Europe proper, so the number will also include overseas dependencies in regions such as the Carribbean, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific.

“Connected IoT services are paramount to enhance the drive experience for our customers. The bespoke Orange IoT platform provides new levels of convenience in terms of personalised services to Toyota and Mazda across Europe. This allows their drivers to benefit from the very best in safety, security and in-car experience,” said Mr. Ken Sakai, Managing Director of KDDI Europe, Ltd.

“Today’s most innovative car manufacturers are leveraging IoT to deliver on the drive experience consumers are demanding. Following extensive consultancy and a pilot with KDDI, we have delivered on a tailor-made IoT platform that will enable innovative connected services to provide drivers with enhanced levels of safety and convenience,” said Valerie Cussac, Senior Vice President, Smart Mobility Services, Orange Business Services.