2020 Automotive Awards

Established in 2018, Vizrom is the technology start-up behind the innovative electronic license plate that displays information on demand on an interactive E-paper display. The IoT connected device integrates with a car computer to relay intelligent, real-time data to the cloud, whilst Vizrom’s intelligent DMV platform is also integrated to the device to support automated license plate renewal. This means that users no longer have to stand in long lines at the DMV, but simply apply for renewal online or through the supporting mobile application. In addition, the GPS and wireless data transmission features of the device enable real-time monitoring of vehicle activity which allows fleets of vehicles to be overseen in a single platform. The Geofencing capabilities of the device also allow pre-programmed actions such as a mobile notification to be triggered once it enters or exits a virtual boundary established by the vehicle owner. These location-based services also enable advertising of businesses in specific geographical areas on the screen itself. These adverts would have to be opted-in to by the vehicle owner and businesses would have to purchase the adverts to be displayed. If a vehicle bearing the smart plate is reported stolen, an alert is sent to the device which then announces ‘Stolen’ on the screen so that those who see the vehicle can call the police. The alert will also activate real- time tracking data, which is shared with a law enforcement agency, enabling the vehicle to be found in a matter of hours, rather than days or weeks. Once the tracking is complete, this data is terminated to Most Innovative Smart eLicense Plate Tech Start-Up 2020 Vizrom is a US technology start-up that is developing the smart license plate, a revolutionary digital product that integrates an intelligent DMV platform to enable automated license plate renewal and generate real-time driving data. Keeping up in the rapidly advancing automotive industry, Vizrom is bringing the traditional license plate that has remained largely unchanged since 1901 into the future. protect the privacy of the user, which is also protected thanks to the encryption of all data that is transmitted to and from the device. Finally, users can use their smartphone app to customize their plate, changing the background color and displaying different slogans and images, so long as it complies with the regulations of the state DMV. The plate will be the ideal choice for those in the luxury market looking to enjoy the additional features that enhance their vehicles, whilst government agencies and companies will be able to benefit from its fleet management capabilities. Vizrom is based in Birmingham, Alabama, a state widely credited as the hub of the US automotive industry that is continuously growing with the arrival of more major car manufacturers to the area. At the moment, Vizrom is currently in discussion with state representatives about passing a law to authorize the use of electronic plates, joining California and Arizona and opening an exciting, lucrative market for the Birmingham-based team once they reach the production stage of their venture. Whilst the passing of this law would not mean electronic license plates would become mandatory, it will be a big step in increasing demand for the product and boosting sales for Vizrom. As a small start-up driven by close teamwork and daring innovation, Vizrom has reached its current success through joint, devoted participation. The result is a product that trumps its only competitor’s products in so many ways, from its affordability to its absence of a need for active data subscriptions. However, with its prototype development recently completed, the firm is currently facing its biggest challenge yet. Vizrom is now focusing its efforts on securing much-needed investment, for which they are looking to get involved in an accelerator program with mentoring from industry leaders to help their business flourish. This investment would assist Vizrom in securing some electronic and electrical modules required for the development of the places, as well as facilitating the expansion of the Vizrom team and establishing strategic partnerships with some of the major auto-manufacturing companies across Alabama. With two final hurdles to overcome, it is an exciting although demanding time for the start-up. Armed with its innovative technology that it is keeping Vizrom at the cutting-edge of the technological evolution of the automotive industry, we look forward to seeing Vizrom’s rise to success as the manufacturer of its ‘first-of-its-kind’ plates that will have a positive and significant impact on its US – and one day, global – market. Company: Vizrom Contact: Emmanuel Umoh Website: www.vizrom.com Oct20472