Indonesian mobile operator Telkomsel has signed two separate deals to boost its presence in the local auto market, including IoT and Wi-Fi connectivity for connected cars and a digital ecosystem for electric vehicles (EVs).
On Tuesday, Telkomsel said its enterprise unit is partnering with automaker Toyota-Astra Motor to integrate IoT and in-car Wi-Fi into Toyota’s “T Intouch” telematics app for its new generation of Fortuner SUVs.
T Intouch enables users to access and control various vehicle features in real-time via a smartphone app, such as vehicle location tracking, remote engine switch-off, checking the condition of key vehicle components, and a "time fencing" feature that prevents the vehicle from being turned on at certain times.
For the new Fortuner SUV series, customers can access T Intouch features via the head unit and rear-seat entertainment screen in the car.
The new Fortuner models are also fitted with in-car Wi-Fi, which passengers can use as a hotspot for internet connectivity. Telkomsel is providing the backhaul for the Wi-Fi via its mobile network.
“With Telkomsel’s wide coverage and stable connectivity even in remote areas, Toyota hopes that all of T Intouch’s advanced features can be easily accessed through the mToyota application,” said Toyota-Astra Motor VP Henry Tanoto in a statement.
The Toyota announcement comes a week after Telkomsel Enterprise signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EV manufacturer Mobil Anak Bangsa Indonesia (MAB) to "jointly develop a more integrated and environmentally friendly EV ecosystem."
Under the deal, signed last week in Bali at the Periklindo Electric Vehicle Conference 2024, Telkomsel will provide connectivity, services and tech solutions, including IoT and broadband, to improve the operational efficiency of EVs.
“By utilizing the latest cellular technology such as broadband networks, vehicle connectivity, fleet operations management [and] energy monitoring, we are committed to improving overall efficiency and effectiveness,” said Nyoman Adiyasa, Telkomsel's VP for area account management.
He added that Telkomsel and MAB also plan to collaborate on future digital solutions, such as connectivity to support telematics and entertainment, and the ability to find charging locations directly from the dashboard.