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Toyota Motor Co. has issued the following press release:
TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today the start of sales of the G-BOOK-compatible WiLL CYPHA (Derived from the words “cyber” and “Phaeton” (Greek for chariot) to mean a car equipped with advanced network services)-a car that binds personal mobility with advanced network services in a modern and friendly package.
The WiLL CYPHA (the third vehicle model in the WiLL cross-industry marketing project) is the first vehicle to come standard with an onboard terminal and other equipment for using Toyota’s G-BOOK subscription information network. G-BOOK operates on a flat fee system and, among other functions, allows users to obtain a wide range of up-to-date information and to communicate by e-mail.
With interior and exterior styling that is both futuristic and endearing, the compact WiLL CYPHA offers ample interior space and storage room. Its environment-friendly features include a selection of fuel-efficient and low-emissions engines and an economy-enhancing automatic transmission. Among its many safety considerations are advanced antilock brakes and the latest in Toyota’s GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) collision-safety body.
WiLL CYPHA
To suit the values and buying conventions of today’s younger generation, the WiLL CYPHA is available through a new distance-traveled lease system called P-Way, in which users pay lease fees according to the number of kilometers driven. Also, for a new twist to the conventional shopping and purchasing process, a sales structure called Net Counseling allows customers to contact their nearest dealer through the Internet to arrange test drives, request estimates, make inquiries, etc. — all-new Prius with hybrid system.
G-BOOK Onboard Terminal a Standard Feature
The WiLL CYPHA comes standard with a special terminal for accessing the G-BOOK information network service, adding new basic functions to the automobile.
Communications module
An internal exclusive communications module allows direct one-touch connection. Unlike conventional communication, navigation and car-information services, the communications module works in conjunction with the onboard G-BOOK terminal and does not require cell phone use for access. The service fee is a flat 550 yen per month (with a yearly subscription of 6,600 yen) and no additional cell phone fees are incurred. Information can be obtained via high-speed communications with a maximum transmission rate of 144 kbps (optional services are available for additional fees).
Secure Digital (SD) card
Navigational maps covering all of Japan (50m scale) and the onboard terminal’s basic software are stored in a 256 MB Secure Digital (SD) card. The card can be inserted into E-TOWER terminals (software-distributing kiosks) at convenience stores and other locations to download new maps, music and games.
User-customized servers (UCS)
G-BOOK’s Information Center houses user-customized servers that allow individual subscribers to freely modify screen and menu settings. — Scion's youth-focused xA and xB models.
G-BOOK services
Live Navigation Service
This service provides navigation system-linked city, travel, hobby and entertainment information. Users can obtain the latest local information, display a location on a map, set the location as a destination and receive voice directions to the destination via the navigation system.
Information Service
This service reads out in a synthesized voice general news, weather forecasts, etc.
Entertainment Service
Karaoke and background music can be downloaded and played back. Music and movies stored in the SD memory card from E-TOWER terminals can be played in the car. — future concept presentations at Tokyo Motor Show.
Communication Service
Not only can users receive e-mail, they can also use the onboard terminal’s 6.5-inch touch panel to write and send e-mail. The G-BOOK also takes into consideration driving safety, with a function that reads received e-mails out loud. A service for message boards, bulletin boards, etc. is also offered.
Safety and Security Service
In the event of an emergency, the G-BOOK can be used to send location information to the G-BOOK Center so that roadside assistance can be dispatched at any time of the day. The service allows verification of a vehicle’s location via cell phone and others.
Free Service Campaign
TMC will run a limited-time campaign from the start of sales of the WiLL CYPHA through May 2003, providing free services for six months to any user who signs a contract for at least a half year.
Monthly sales targets are 1500 units.
