An investment in artificial intelligence ventures, an ice cream sandwich inspired by a sports car, and a Disney influenced van were among the items promoted by automakers recently.

[naviga:ul]

[naviga:li]Toyota has started a venture capital subsidiary to provide financing for the early phases of technology companies. Its Toyota Research Institute arm is making an initial investment of $100 million in Toyota AI Ventures. This entity is providing funds to three businesses to start: Nauto, a Silicon Valley company focusing on vehicle data collection company to prevent collisions and improve driver behavior; SLAMcore, a British company that creates algorithms to improve technology in developments such as self-driving vehicles; and Intuition Robotics, an Israeli company focused on social companions like robots.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Ford teamed up with the ice cream company Coolhaus to develop a sweet treat inspired by the Ford Mustang. The Orange Fury ice cream sandwich, which references a new color available on the sports car's 2018 model, includes a unique orange ice cream sandwiched between two vanilla cookies covered in orange icing; the treat is also covered in an edible wrapper. A Coolhaus truck in New York City and the company's flagship shop in Culver City, Calif., recently distributed the ice cream sandwich for free.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Honda has revealed a one-of-a-kind "Minnie Van" inspired by the classic Disney character Minnie Mouse. The 2018 Odyssey includes a pink, polka dot design and is topped by an oversized recreation of Minnie's ears and bow. The van was displayed at Disney's D23 Expo in Anaheim, Calif., as part of Honda's partnership with Disney and their "Unlock the Magic Sweepstakes."[/naviga:li]

[/naviga:ul]