Five Toyota Group companies—Toyota Motor Corporation, Aisin, Denso, Toyota Tsusho, and Woven by Toyota Inc—have announced two major initiatives aimed at accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) and software development across the automotive sector. These efforts include the establishment of the Toyota Software Academy and the launch of the Global AI Accelerator (GAIA) program.
The Toyota Software Academy is designed to develop specialists proficient in both hardware and software technologies—skills essential for next-generation automotive innovation. The program offers approximately 100 technical courses, covering AI, cybersecurity, data science, vehicle regulations, and more. Participants will gain hands-on experience in areas such as autonomous driving systems, integrating theoretical learning with real-world vehicle testing.
The Academy also aims to create a global ecosystem for AI and software talent. Participants will have access to diverse learning environments, collaborative networks, and career development tools, such as Denso’s AI-supported skill certification system, SOMRIE. These opportunities will support professional growth across multiple disciplines and geographies.
The Global AI Accelerator (GAIA) is a comprehensive initiative launched by Toyota to expand the integration and investment of artificial intelligence across its global operations. The program is designed to embed AI capabilities at every level of the organization, aiming to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and enhance overall performance across multiple business functions.
GAIA targets the application of AI in a wide range of operational areas, beginning with 11 key domains. These include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (AD/ADAS), Business Software Development, and Customer Experience—each critical to improving safety, streamlining digital tools, and personalizing engagement. Additional areas such as Knowledge Management, In-Vehicle Digital Agents, and Materials Innovation focus on enhancing internal systems, interactive technologies, and next-generation materials.
The initiative also emphasizes Manufacturing Optimization, New Mobility Concepts, and Office Automation to support smarter production lines, future transportation models, and more efficient workplace processes. Robotics and Vehicle Engineering round out the focus areas, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to intelligent automation and cutting-edge vehicle development. GAIA represents a strategic step toward making AI a foundational element of Toyota’s technological and business evolution.
GAIA’s mission aligns with Toyota’s “Jidoka” principle—automation with a human touch—and aims to enhance productivity, foster creativity, and support the development of AI-powered products. Dr Gill Pratt, Chief Scientist at Toyota, emphasized the transformative potential of AI across the company’s global operations: “While the future of AI remains uncertain, our preparations must be rooted in the traditions that define Toyota—placing people at the center of innovation.”
Yoshihisa Yamamoto, Chief Technology Strategy Officer at Aisin, highlighted the importance of developing engineers capable of integrating control, software, and actuator technologies to strengthen Aisin’s position in electrification and vehicle intelligence. Atsushi Hayashida, Chief Software Officer at Denso, pointed to the critical role of continuous learning in building resilient software capabilities for a future mobility society.
Eiji Matsuzaki, CEO of the Digital Solutions Division at Toyota Tsusho, discussed the need for adaptive software development and advanced training to meet evolving global standards in AI and mobility. Hiroaki Okuchi, Chief Customer Officer at Woven by Toyota, underscored the company’s commitment to safe and human-centered mobility, calling for wider collaboration to shape the next generation of transportation technologies.
These initiatives reflect Toyota Group’s broader ambition to create a sustainable, secure, and inclusive mobility ecosystem powered by AI and software innovation. By aligning engineering, education, and research capabilities across multiple entities, Toyota is positioning itself at the forefront of the next wave of automotive transformation.
