About DIMO
DIMO is a pioneering open mobility platform that connects cars to the internet in a secure, decentralized, and user-controlled way. Built on blockchain principles, it transforms every vehicle into a programmable smart device that can interact with applications, services, and other infrastructure through secure APIs. By putting drivers in control of their data and offering real incentives for participation, DIMO introduces a new paradigm for vehicle ownership and digital mobility.
From enhancing how drivers interact with their cars to enabling developers to build entirely new automotive apps, DIMO is making vehicles more valuable and accessible. Whether you’re a fleet operator, solo driver, or enterprise developer, the platform offers a secure, programmable interface to vehicle data, commands, and services, all while maintaining privacy and security through cryptography and onchain permissions.
DIMO emerged from a vision to give individuals control over their vehicle data and to build an open alternative to the closed, manufacturer-dominated telematics systems in use today. The protocol allows users to connect their vehicles via official or third-party hardware, gaining real-time access to car metrics such as fuel level, speed, location, and diagnostic data. With over 180,000 vehicles already connected and millions in token rewards distributed, DIMO is quickly becoming a major force in the mobility sector.
The platform is structured in three layers: the DIMO Protocol, which establishes digital vehicle identity and permissions; DIMO Nodes, which store and serve vehicle data; and DIMO Apps, which provide user-facing services. These layers are fully open-source and composable, enabling developers to build custom mobility experiences with full distribution and data access built in. The roadmap for DIMO spans three phases: initial data onboarding, an expanding ecosystem of apps, and ultimately full decentralization into a global protocol for mobility and beyond.
DIMO competes with platforms like AutoPi, Smartcar, and High Mobility, but differentiates itself by being entirely open and blockchain-based. Instead of relying on centralized API keys or proprietary agreements with automakers, DIMO gives control to users and uses decentralized incentives to build trust and scale. Its protocol-based approach aligns with broader Web3 principles and opens the door to use cases like insurance, shared mobility, digital DMVs, and even vehicle-based payments and automation.
DIMO provides numerous benefits and features that make it a standout platform in the connected car and mobility ecosystem:
- User-Owned Vehicle Data: With DIMO, drivers have full control over who accesses their car's data. Permissions are stored on-chain and cryptographically enforced.
- Universal Compatibility: DIMO works with virtually all car models via either direct wireless connection or through DIMO hardware adapters.
- Mobility App Ecosystem: Developers can build apps for maintenance, insurance, gaming, or fleet tracking directly on top of DIMO's open infrastructure.
- Privacy-Preserving Design: Onchain permissions and decentralized data storage ensure user privacy and eliminate centralized data abuse.
- Community-Driven Development: Anyone can contribute to or extend DIMO's protocol, SDK, or apps, enabling rapid innovation and collaborative governance.
DIMO makes it easy for both drivers and developers to get started on the platform:
- Connect Your Vehicle: Visit the official DIMO website and select your car’s make and year to learn how to connect. Many newer vehicles support wireless connection via the DIMO Mobile App, while older models may require a compatible adapter.
- Download DIMO Mobile: The mobile app allows users to manage connected vehicles, monitor real-time data, and start earning DIMO rewards. Available for iOS and Android.
- Earn Rewards: By keeping your car connected, you’ll earn rewards in the form of points or $DIMO tokens based on data frequency and reliability.
- Build Applications: Developers can begin by reviewing the DIMO documentation and exploring the SDK and APIs provided. DIMO makes it simple to integrate vehicle data into new apps.
- Join the Community: Whether you're a driver, builder, or researcher, DIMO welcomes you to join its global community on Discord, Twitter, or GitHub.
DIMO FAQ
DIMO uses a blockchain-based permission system where drivers explicitly grant access to their data via smart contracts. Each request from a developer or enterprise must be approved by the user, similar to how apps request permissions on smartphones. These permissions are stored on-chain and are verifiable, ensuring transparency and control. For more details, visit DIMO.org.
Yes, DIMO supports both modern and legacy vehicles. While newer vehicles can connect via Bluetooth or APIs using the DIMO Mobile App, older vehicles can be connected using a compatible adapter sold in the DIMO Store. This ensures nearly universal support across thousands of car models.
If you sell a connected vehicle, you can easily revoke its access from your DIMO dashboard or mobile app. The new owner can then create a separate DIMO account and initiate a fresh connection. Since ownership is linked to blockchain identity and permissions, data access and control are not automatically transferable without your consent.
Absolutely. DIMO was designed with privacy-first principles. All data sharing is opt-in and anonymized when used by apps or developers. Moreover, you can monitor, limit, or revoke permissions at any time. Your data never leaves the platform without explicit consent, and rewards are earned based on the quantity and reliability of data—not on personally identifiable metrics.
DIMO is open-source, decentralized, and governed by its community. Unlike centralized platforms that act as intermediaries between users and automakers, DIMO gives data ownership and control directly to the vehicle owner. It removes gatekeepers, allows broader innovation, and supports a token-based economy that aligns incentives between users and developers. Learn more at DIMO.org.