From Telematics Talk
Mitsubishi Motors North America was named Telematics OEM of the Year at the TU-Automotive Detroit conference and exhibition.
Mitsubishi received the award in recognition of its Road Assist+ smartphone application.
The award recognizes forward-thinking OEMs that are developing cutting-edge technologies and innovations in the connected-vehicle space.
Mitsubishi Road Assist+, built in association with LexisNexis Risk Solutions, is the first hardware-free, smartphone-based application from an OEM that lets owners realize the cost savings of usage-based insurance (UBI) without having to own a newer “connected car” with built-in telematics capabilities or aftermarket-installed telematics hardware, according to the automaker.
The app is loaded with technology (GPS and Driving Signature) to give drivers access, at their choosing, to contact participating carriers and exclusive Mitsubishi offers.
“We’re extremely honored to be recognized as OEM of the Year by TU-Automotive for Road Assist+ and our work in the telematics space,” said Bryan Arnett, senior manager, product planning, Mitsubishi Motors North America. “Today’s drivers increasingly expect intelligent services that link to their car to provide a convenient and connected driving experience. Mitsubishi Road Assist+ is a seamless way to offer that while providing cost-savings opportunities for consumers through participating UBI insurance carriers.”
The Mitsubishi Road Assist+ app has advanced analytics embedded in it, collecting driving-behavior data through telematics technology that provides feedback to help drivers improve their driving and avoid risky behaviors such as speeding, hard braking and fast acceleration, according to the automaker. The app applies geospatial context to driving events to better understand how drivers respond in different situations.
“Providing insurers and OEMs with comprehensive and normalized telematics data is one of our connected-car team’s top priorities,” said Adam Hudson, senior director, U.S. Connected Car Team, LexisNexis Risk Solutions. “This recognition is a great source of pride, and further showcases us as an emerging leader in the telematics industry.”
Mitsubishi Road Assist+ also provides 24-hour emergency roadside assistance along with proactive driving feedback and suggestions and dealership discounts. The service allows Mitsubishi to explore valuable insights behind consumer use of its products and “supports the goal to enhance driver peace of mind, safety and connectivity on the open road,” the company noted.
Mitsubishi Road Assist+ is available now for Android and iOS devices on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
