Toyota 2006 Annual Report Download - page 43

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Other Business Operations
Intelligent Transport Systems Business
With the goals of enhancing the functionality of cars and
advancing transportation systems, Toyota is creating prod-
ucts and systems for the realization of the Intelligent
Transport System (ITS). In those efforts, we advance driving
support systems, combine cars and information technology
and telecommunications, develop systems linking cars and
infrastructure, and offer models for future highway-based
public transportation systems. In the same way that we took
steps to realize the full-fledged commercialization and pop-
ularization of ETC, we will lead efforts to advance the practi-
cal application and spread of ITSs. We will participate in col-
laborative projects among government, the private sector,
and academic institutions that involve undertaking research
and development and proving tests.
Information Technology and Telecommunications Business
We believe that further integration of vehicles and commu-
nication is essential to enhance the convenience and com-
fort of cars. Focusing on cell phones, Toyota is collaborating
on the planning and commercialization of telecommunica-
tions-related products and services with its main partner
the general telecommunications services provider KDDI
Corporation, which offers products ranging from cell phone
services to fixed-line telephone domestic and international
telecommunications services and Internet-related services.
At the same time, we are developing a sales agency busi-
ness that primarily handles KDDI cell phones.
e-Toyota Business
Toyota’s comprehensive information network service
GAZOO provides its 4.9 million members with information
on new cars, used cars, and related services and a wide range
of other information through a web site and information
terminals. Further, as part of GAZOO mobility services, we
provide G-BOOK, an information service for onboard ter-
minals. At present, we are introducing upgraded versions
of the G-BOOK system: G-BOOK ALPHA and G-Link for
Lexus vehicles. In addition, we are introducing e-CRB
(Customer Relationship Building), a state-of-the-art CRM
(Customer Relationship Management) network system that
helps cultivate long-term relationships with customers
mainly in Thailand, Australia, and China.
Housing Business
Toyota is focusing its efforts on developing homes that
feature outstanding functionality, durability, and earth-
quake resistance and that cater to modern lifestyles. In fis-
cal 2006, sales of homes increased 4.6% year on year, to
5,525 units, thanks to such efforts as the marketing of
new products.
Marine Business
By making full use of the engine and other advanced tech-
nologies it has developed in automotive manufacturing,
Toyota produces and markets motorboats and marine
engines. In fiscal 2006, we launched a high-end pleasure
boat, the PONAM-45.
Biotechnology and Afforestation Business
To contribute to the construction of a recycling society,
Toyota promotes biotechnology and greening businesses.
Those operations include afforestation businesses in
Australia and China, sweet potato processing in Indonesia,
and floriculture and rooftop “greening” in Japan. In the
field of bioplastics, Toyota constructed a pilot factory with-
in its Hirose plant and began operations in May 2005. In
addition, aiming to curb the burden placed on the envi-
ronment by livestock farmers and resolve such environ-
mental issues as offensive odors, Toyota jointly developed
an agent that promotes the production of fertilizer,
resQ45, with Menicon Co., Ltd., launching sales in July 2006.
Business Overview
Pilot factory in Toyota’s Hirose plant
Toyota adapts the technologies and intellectual assets cultivated in its automotive operations to develop
businesses in such areas as information technology and telecommunications, housing, and environmen-
tal preservation.