Tesla has launched a direct integration feature with DIMO, a decentralized connected car app that allows users to connect to networks such as fleets of vehicles and earn rewards.
DIMO announced a direct integration with Tesla vehicles in a press release on Tuesday, allowing Tesla owners to control authority over their data, connect to a vehicle fleet network and earn rewards directly through the app. Tesla is the first major automaker to enable such an integration, and the company already has 20,000 Tesla vehicles in its fleet, bringing the total number of vehicles to 109,000 that have been integrated into the DIMO platform.
“At a time when many automakers struggle with issues of security, privacy and openness, Tesla continues to lead the way by officially supporting robust connectivity with open mobility platforms,” DIMO said in a release. “Tesla drivers will be able to seamlessly manage their connection to DIMO via the Tesla app or infotainment system, and continue to earn rewards simply by connecting their vehicle to the network.”
📣This is amazing… Tesla Tesla became the first automaker to enable direct integration with DIMO and continues to lead the way by officially supporting robust connectivity with open mobility platforms. pic.twitter.com/LJDot2IkTN
— DIMO 🚙⚡️📡 (@DIMO_Network) August 27, 2024
To enroll, Tesla owners simply download the DIMO app and connect their vehicle to the network, where they can toggle data permissions and earn money by staying connected. More information about the program can be found on the DIMO website.
Tesla vehicles already using the DIMO platform have until October 31 to upgrade their connectivity. The connected car app developer noted that the deal also gives owners “granular permission management,” as well as access to advanced widgets related to the car's status and additional features such as remote trunk unlocking and door opening.
“The connected car experience will become as personalized as your phone,” DIMO co-founder Alex Lawitz explained in a post on X. “Many companies are trying to make it happen, but only one project is aiming to decentralize it.”
Tesla's embrace of direct platform integration is also a big step, and it's possible that other automakers will follow suit and open up their codebases to further integrate with third-party platforms like DIMO.
In a conversation with Teslarati In June, one of DIMO's co-founders explained how the app adds another layer of control for vehicle owners over their data, even when it comes to competing in the used car market.
“You really want a situation where if you have control over your data, not only can you monetize it in some cases, but if you bring that data into some of the really big transactions that people make a lot of times, like insurance companies or the used car market, you can almost always get a better deal,” Chatham explained. “And at least you can choose whether or not to include that data in the transaction.”
Survey shows 96% of consumers want to own their vehicle data
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