Toyota to Create Own Social Network

The wonder called Facebook which has changed the world and aided an uprising or two has managed to become a gold mine for car producers. From about a year ago, when the power of the social network became apparent, we've seen a flood of car launches, leaked information and photos and even corporate bloopers taking place in the online environment.

The next logical step for automakers, apparently, was the creation of their own social networks, with a somewhat select pool of target audiences (read the customers of the respective manufacturer), where ideas and plans can be changed and problems solved.

The first to engage into such an endeavor is Toyota who, after partnering with Salesforce.com, announced the creation of a private social network for Toyota customers. Called Toyota Friend, the network will be offered at first only in Japan, at the same time the electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles due in 2012 produced by Toyota will be launched.

According to the Japanese, Toyota Friend would allow users access to product and service information, essential maintenance tips, re-charge alert features and more.

At a corporate level, the decision to launch Toyota Friend means Salesforce.com will be investing 223 million yen (2.7 million) in Toyota Media Service, the carmaker's IT specialized division. Microsoft, another partner of the Japanese, will also invest in the project.

“Social networking services are transforming human interaction and modes of communication. The automobile needs to evolve in step with that transformation. I am always calling for Toyota to make ever-better cars. The alliance that we announce today is an important step forward in achieving that goal,” said Toyota's head honcho Akio Toyoda.