Toyota FaceItDown App
The use of mobile phones while driving poses a significant issue on Irish roads. Many individuals continue to use their phones to make calls, send texts, take selfies, update social media, or check emails when behind the wheel. In line with Toyota's brand commitment to creating a 'Better World,' the company developed the Toyota FaceItDown app, aimed at changing driver habits and enhancing road safety for all. In collaboration with the Road Safety Authority, FBD Insurance, and Circle K, Toyota offers rewards to drivers who place their phones face down while driving. These drivers can redeem points earned during their journeys for a €50 discount on their car insurance with FBD Insurance or a free hot drink at Circle K locations across the country. The app is available to all drivers, not just those who own Toyotas. Initially launched as a cross-platform app using React Native, it incorporates some native code on Android and iOS to meet specific needs. The FaceItDown API is a service that handles requests from the mobile apps and the administration dashboard, utilizing Node.js for the service and RethinkDB for data management. The administrative interface is a React web application. The app has been downloaded over 50,000 times within a year, leading to more than nine million journeys free of distractions. FaceItDown has garnered significant media attention, receiving coverage from outlets such as RTE, RSA, Irish Mirror, Independent, and Marketing Magazine.