AalaCar is an innovative automotive startup based in Toronto, Canada. Committed to advancing smart vehicle technologies, their mission is to make the benefits of these technologies accessible to everyday consumers. AalaCar is driven by a passion for technology and aims to provide a positive and considerate upgrade to people’s lives, relationships, and businesses.

AalaCar partnered with AMS-IoT to develop their flagship product, the AalaCar device. Starting from the feasibility stage, AMS-IoT took on the project and successfully delivered a comprehensive solution. The AalaCar device consists of a well-designed hardware device, featuring a custom casing and a specialized printed circuit board (PCB). It also incorporates advanced firmware, various communication ports, cloud integration, and an interactive mobile app for end consumers.

The device is designed to be plugged into the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) port of a vehicle. It establishes communication with the Engine Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle and extracts crucial data points. These data points are then interpreted by the device and transmitted to the subscribed consumer’s mobile device.

The AalaCar device acts as a translator, converting the technical language of the vehicle into easily understandable information in plain English. This empowers vehicle owners to effectively maintain their vehicles, ensuring top-notch performance, safety, and security.

The AalaCar device offers a range of valuable features for both individual consumers and fleet managers:

• Saves money in vehicle maintenance:

By providing real-time insights into a vehicle’s condition, the device helps owners detect and address potential issues early on, preventing costly repairs.

• Vehicle security:

The AalaCar device includes a geo-location feature that enables users to track their vehicles, enhancing theft protection and peace of mind.

• Smooth rides and surprise-free driving:

By analyzing data and identifying potential issues in advance, the device enables drivers to proactively address maintenance needs, ensuring a smoother driving experience.

• Trips history:

The device keeps track of the vehicle’s trip history, providing users with a comprehensive overview of past journeys.

• Time-efficient vehicle maintenance:

With the AalaCar device’s insights and recommendations, owners can optimize their maintenance efforts, reducing time spent on unnecessary or reactive repairs.

• Theft protection:

The device’s location tracking features help prevent theft and aid in recovering stolen vehicles.

• Family safety:

Through location tracking capabilities, the AalaCar device ensures the safety of the user’s family members while on the road.

To develop the AalaCar device, the following technologies and tools were utilized:

• Schematic capture & PCB Layout:

Altium was employed for creating detailed schematics and designing the printed circuit board layout.

• Device Casing/Enclosure:

SolidWorks facilitated the design of a custom casing that ensures the device’s physical protection and integration with vehicles.

• Microcontroller:

The device is powered by the SAMD51 microcontroller, which enables efficient data processing and communication.

• Firmware:
  • Programming Language: The firmware was developed using C++, a powerful and versatile programming language.

• • • Communication Protocols: The AalaCar device supports Controller Area Network (CAN) and Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocols, enabling seamless communication with the vehicle’s ECU.

• Cloud Integration: The device integrates with Amazon Web Services (AWS), leveraging cloud infrastructure for efficient data storage, processing, and remote access.

• Web/App Development: The interactive mobile app for end consumers was developed for both Android and iOS platforms, ensuring broad compatibility across a range of mobile devices.

• System Architecture: The AalaCar device utilizes a 32-bit system architecture, providing a robust and capable platform for delivering its functionalities.

The AalaCar device is compatible with various vehicles that have an OBD port. It supports both older and newer car models, covering a wide range of makes and manufacturers. The mobile app is designed for compatibility with popular operating systems, including Android and iOS, allowing users to conveniently access and interact with the device’s features using their smartphones or tablets.

By incorporating widely supported technologies and ensuring compatibility with common vehicle interfaces and mobile platforms, AalaCar aims to provide a seamless experience for its diverse user base.