Toyota Hotspot, an in-car multi-media device that allows Toyota owners to connect up to five WiFi-enabled devices to the internet while on the move, has arrived on sale.
Similar in size to a home WiFi hub, the smart black box makes getting online easy – simply start the car, pair your smartphone, tablet or laptop to the unit and Toyota Hotspot will remember the device for future journeys.
The hotspot allows for multiple devices to be connected at once, meaning that drivers can stream music through digital services such as Spotify, while passengers can browse the web or stay in touch with friends on social media.
WiFi data is provided via a SIM card. The hotspot is equipped with a SIM card reader, giving owners a choice of data plan and provider for the device.
The fitment of two 3G antennae mean that WiFi is available at high speeds, and the system can cope with even the harshest conditions, remaining fully operational at temperatures twenty below freezing. A three-year warranty provides further piece of mind.
Toyota Hotspot is available as a dealer-fit accessory from Toyota dealers (dependent on availability) for £350 including fitting on the following models:
Auris (2012 – Current)
Avensis (2011 – Current)
Prius (2011 – Current)
Prius+ (2011 – Current)
Prius Plug In (2012 – Current)
Proace (2013)
RAV4 (2012 – Current)
Verso (2012 – Current)
Fitment time is approximately one hour and there are plans for a range-wide rollout of the kit in the future.
Read more about Toyota’s range of accessories here.
Does it work on any UK 3G network?
Hi James,
We can confirm it works on any UK network. You would just need to ensure your agreement allows internet access.
Hope this helps.
Love that Toyota are being innovative and reacting to the needs of their clients. And the antennae might make an improvement. But, for those not wanting £350 plus cost and I guess the ongoing rental. There are alternatives. http://www.pcworld.co.uk/gbuk/broadband-sat-nav-phones/mobile-phones-broadband/pay-as-you-go-mobile-broadband/ee-4g-contract-mobile-wifi-19140073-pdt.html and it supports up to 4G.
Hi Guy,
Thank you for contacting us.
You’re right, these products are available, but are not truly comparable with our system, which is automotive grade, hard wired solution with dual antenna. The dual antenna is significant because it allows consistent transfer speeds when the vehicle is in motion. Systems like the attached link and “Mifi” units replicate the same functionality of a smart phone with data access/tethering.
The Toyota system comes with a 3 year warranty.
Many thanks.
Why no applicability for the current Yaris models
Hi,
Hotspot isn’t available on the Yaris yet, but there are plans for a range-wide roll-out in the future & 4G integration.
so do you need sim card in it were can I find info about it
thanks simon
Hi Simon,
Thank you for getting in touch with us.
WiFi data is provided via a SIM card and the hotspot is equipped with a SIM card reader. You are free to choose your own data provider. You will need to visit a data provider branch and agree a monthly contract for data allowance, and insert this SIM into the Toyota Hotspot.
Many thanks.
I have a question on this. I have the system currently installed on my new Auris Hybrid Sports Touring. It came with a free vodaphone simcard. I stay in the Highlands of Scotland and the signal is constantly 2G and not 3G. Ive paid £350 for this system and its been a complete waste of money so far.
Is the speed subject to the quality of data coverage by the provider. If so I would like to know which provider gives you the best signal for my area. Im doing a 20 miles drive along the A96 between Nairn and Inverness and get 2G signal which does not allow me to stream any music from Spotify like the sales blurb says you can.
Unless im doing something DRASTICALLY wrong it doesn’t seem value for money
Hi Craig,
Thank you for taking the time to contact us.
The system will receive the strongest, most reliable internet signal available, which means the box performs to the limits of the data service in any particular area. We’re unable to guarantee the signal around the UK, however the system will work with the SIM card to receive the best possible service. It may be that another provider offers better signal along your journey and our recommendation would be to assess other providers as they may have better signal. Do contact your Local Dealer as they’ll be able to offer some assistance.
We’re sorry that you’re not currently getting a strong signal as you’d like however it will be worth considering a different SIM card which may offer a solution.
Many thanks and kind regards.
If I fit WiFi to my Land Cruiser can it link to one of my current home Broadband suppliers, BT, and will there be an additional monthly charge if I stay within my current download package?
Hi Nicholas,
We’d recommend speaking directly with your supplier. It may well be that they can provide you with a dongle, but we can’t say at what charge.
Hope this helps.
Please tell me what type of simcard is neccessary, micro, nano or standard? Measurements in mm?
Hello Faplinck
Thanks for your post and sorry for the delay in replying. A standard simcard is required and measurement details will be through shortly but hope this helps for now.
Best wishes
Can this unit handle 4g.
Hi Tristan
Thanks for your post.
Currently this unit cannot handle 4G however this is currently under review. Will have more news mid next year.
Hope this helps.
Hello. I saw this advertised at a local toyota dealer today and quite like the idea. Once installed, will the box or the antennae be visible, either inside or outside of the car? And arethe antennae, if visible, sturdy enough for the car wash?
Hi Johnathan,
The dual antenna is windscreen mounted with no external protrusion, so you’re able to take your car through a car wash without removal. The hot spot is located out of site in either the glove box or centre armrest (model dependant).
Hope this helps.
Thanks, Oliwer.
Hi again,
I have another question. What type of 3G connections is the wifi hotspot capable of?
Is it just the basic 3G, or also H and H+, which are also 3G but fall short of full 4G?
Hello Jonathan
Thanks for your post and sorry for the delay in replying. We had to check these specs further with our European office. The answer is that the units are 3G and the faster H/H+ compatible (HSPA).
Hope this helps but let us know if you have any other queries.
Brilliant. Thank you very much, David.