Toyota has created an app based on behavioral science research to 'hack' plug-in hybrid owners' brains

Tech giant Toyota has created an app that uses an app-based on behavioural science that helps hybrid owners to utilise their vehicles to the max.

The aptly named tool ‘ChargeMinder’ was tested in both the US and Japan, with behavioural science bringing interesting results back to the drawing board.

The app was found to boost elements such as satisfaction in clever ways that can slowly but surely get into owners’ brains.

The studies involved drivers from 12 different brands to see if behavioural science was really the answer.

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Toyota is using behavioural science research to ‘hack’ the brains of hybrid owners

It’s no secret that there has been a shift from drivers opting for EV technology over solely gas-powered cars.

But, with many scared to make the huge jump from gas to EV, hybrids prove to be a middle ground that bridges the gap and also helps the environment.

However, owning a hybrid means that you have to charge the car to really make the most of it, which can be a tedious or difficult task for some.

So, tackle this car giant, Toyota’s HCAI division created an app called ChargeMinder, which reminds owners to charge their cars alongside their charging patterns.

The company recently used the app to conduct research with the assistance of behavioural science and found out some interesting information.

Toyota explained that the app applies the science by delivering reminders that are up to 50 percent more effective than generic prompts, alongside providing ‘positive reinforcements’ in the form of messages, summaries, and even streaks.

But that’s not all, it also has educational quizzes to encourage users.

After conducting research using the ChargeMinder app, it was found that in the US, it increased PHEV charging by 10% and the satisfaction of the drivers with their vehicles by ’16 percentage points, bringing it to 100 percent’.

In Japan, PHEV and BEV drivers also managed to shift charging to ‘peak renewable energy hours’ and add almost 30 minutes of daily driving, thanks to the 59 percent change.

“This research and development shows how science-based behavioural interventions can both help us reduce carbon emissions as much as possible, as soon as possible, and increase customer satisfaction,” Dr Gill Pratt, chief scientist for Toyota Motor Corporation and CEO, Toyota Research Institute, said.

The app can use data collected to ‘provide a personalized intervention experience and conduct advanced data analytics while preserving user privacy’.

Science is helping to evolve the car world rapidly

From new charging methods to new ways to help drivers understand what’s really under their hoods, science is helping elements in the car world to advance.

When it comes to EVs, science and technology advancements are helping owners to really get the best out of their vehicles.

In fact, at the Munich Motor Show, a briefcase‑sized range extender powertrain that could electrify future EVs was revealed.

Plus, over in China, scientists have created a futuristic battery twice as powerful as the most powerful Tesla cell.

You can read more about Toyota’s behavioural science research here.

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