Toronto-based technology startup, Betterfrost Technologies Inc., and global leader in automotive solutions, Toyota Tsusho Canada Inc. (TTCI), are thrilled to announce they are working together, with the support of the Ontario government through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), to commercialize innovative technology that will make autonomous electric vehicles resilient in cold weather. 

"We see this support from the Ontario government through OVIN as a strong indication of Ontario's commitment to innovation and remaining at the forefront of cutting-edge automotive technologies," says Derrick Redding, CEO of Betterfrost. "Through this project, we are demonstrating and commercializing a technology that addresses one of the key challenges for consumers considering buying electric or autonomous vehicles." 

Through OVIN, this project is receiving $100,000 in contribution from the Government of Ontario to match $244,000 in industry investment for a total project value of $344,000. This collaboration will build on Betterfrost's proprietary de-icing technology to create innovative automotive solutions with the ability to clear windshields, windows, and sensors from ice and snow buildup in seconds — allowing autonomous vehicles to operate safely and effectively in harsh climates. This technology will also be incredibly energy efficient, using less than 5% of the energy of conventional systems. 

"Ontario is a leader in next-generation autonomous and electric vehicle innovations and solutions," said Vic Fedeli, Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. "Through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network, our government will continue to invest in Ontario's innovation ecosystem and support partnerships like this one, which help strengthen economic growth and job creation in our province."

For drivers and passengers of semi- or fully-autonomous electric vehicles, the benefits of this new solution include enhanced safety, extended range, and expanded operability in harsh climates. Through this project, a platform will be developed that will ultimately enable deployments in a wide variety of automotive systems around the world. 

The newly designed technology will play a strategic role in achieving the common goal of building safer, innovative, and efficient automotive solutions in Canada. 

"As we look towards a future with more autonomous vehicles on our roads, safety in winter weather conditions is a top priority," said Caroline Mulroney, Ontario Minister of Transportation. "This partnership between Betterfrost and Toyota Tsusho Canada demonstrates our commitment to supporting Ontario-based innovation in the autonomous vehicle industry."

Looking ahead to the future, the parties involved look forward to building on the momentum of this announcement, positioning themselves on the cutting edge of automotive technologies to better protect Canadians. With technology and innovation at the forefront, Canadians continue to be increasingly protected while facing the most unpredictable of climates.

ABOUT BETTERFROST TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Focused on solving some of the toughest technical challenges created by climate change, Betterfrost collaborates with industry and innovators to design and effectively commercialize emerging technologies. www.betterfrost.com.

ABOUT TOYOTA TSUSHO CANADA, INC. (TTCI)

TTCI is part of the Toyota Tsusho America, Inc. (TAI) group of companies. With 60 years in North America, TAI, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a multi-market, multi-business enterprise with expertise in exporting and importing, supply chain management, new manufacturing, intermediate goods processing and logistics in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. www.taiamerica.com. 

ABOUT THE ONTARIO VEHICLE INNOVATION NETWORK (OVIN)

OVIN is an initiative of the Government of Ontario, led by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), designed to reinforce Ontario's position as a North American leader in advanced automotive technology and smart mobility solutions such as connected vehicles, autonomous vehicles and electric and low-carbon vehicle technologies. Through resources such as research and development (R&D) support, talent and skills development, technology acceleration, business and technical supports, and demonstration grounds, OVIN provides a competitive advantage to Ontario-made automotive and mobility technology companies. https://www.ovinhub.ca/.

Media Contact:

Derrick Redding, derrick.redding@betterfrost.com