Connected-car service provider Zubie has created an open API platform called ZinC (Zubie for the Internet of Cars). The API enables developers and engineers to build apps and service integrations on Zubie's existing connected-car platform.

The Zubie API provides partners and developers secure and managed access to vehicle diagnostics, location, trip activity and driving data from Zubie's fully certified and hardened platform. Consumers, small businesses, wireless carriers, insurance and automotive businesses in the U.S. and Germany can use this real-time information to enhance their experience or services. Developers can also benefit from proprietary analytical models that are derived from Zubie's existing global base of connected-cars that have tracked hundreds of millions of driving miles.

By providing controlled and secure access to real-time vehicle health, performance and safety data, ZinC can be used to:

• Build apps for fuel economy, driving improvement, trip sharing, parking, smart/connected home functionality and numerous other ways to enhance a connected life.

• Develop business-focused apps and integrations to simplify fleet management, integrate with expense and billing platforms, power car-sharing services and aid vertical-specific needs. For instance, a food truck can leverage Zubie to automatically publicize its location while on the go or to connect with its followers.

• Create pattern-based analytical modules for specific use cases, such as predictive vehicle repair costs and driving patterns.

Hundreds of developers and partners, including Openbay and Urgent.ly, have already registered for the ZinC platform in its beta release, which launched in November 2014. ZinC currently powers large-scale deployments for Safeco's Teen Driving Program, GeekSquad and Telefonica's O2 Car Connection.

Since its inception in 2012, Zubie has been at the forefront of the connected-car evolution. The company continues to extend its footprint through strategic partnerships and technology advancements. Recently, Zubie partnered with Autonation, the U.S.' largest retailer of new passenger vehicles, to provide dealerships with real time insights about their customers' vehicles and increasing service visits.

In December, Zubie introduced its Perks platform offering drivers relevant savings on items such as insurance, automotive services or accessories through qualified third-party vendors such as CARCHEX, Sears and Goodyear. Today, developers can tap Zubie's technology to create new, state-of-the-art applications that will aid the expansion of the connected car and reinforce Zubie as a leader in the Internet of Cars.