Toyota's A.I. Research Puts it on MIT Technology Review's Radar

In January 2016, Toyota opened up a brand new company dedicated to developing artificially intelligent machines, and robotics to support mobility. The Toyota Research Institute (TRI) is led by CEO Dr. Gill Pratt, formerly a roboticist for DARPA.

This big step forward undertaken by one of the largest automakers in the world caught the attention of the MIT Technology Review. On its list of the 50 Smartest Companies of 2016, Toyota ranked 17th, ahead of Microsoft, IBM, and Intel.

The publication praised Toyota for its $1 billion investment into this future-forward research which could change the lives of millions of drivers -- allowing people with disabilities currently unable to drive to have greater independence, and making cars safer for everyone sharing the road.

Many modern vehicles already contain some autonomous features, and Toyota is no stranger to this form of technology. Current systems including Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) improve overall vehicle safety performance by alerting the driver to certain hazards.

The innovations coming out of TRI will likely lead to improvements in the Toyota Safety Sense system, which currently includes technology like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. To develop new and innovative safety performance features, Toyota has even started working with artificial intelligence researchers from Stanford to test out cameras that monitor the driver to assess his or her alertness. This type of safety innovation can help improve safety by making sure the driver remains alert while navigating a Toyota vehicle.

While many of these new safety innovations will not be available in the immediate future, it is exciting to consider all the many ways that Toyota has already reimagined the driving experience and what is to come for this exceptional auto brand. Are you ready to sit behind the wheel of a new Toyota vehicle? Visit Frank Fletcher Toyota to learn more about advanced features available for Toyota vehicles, and explore our new Toyota cars for sale in Joplin, MO today!