Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru Announce Joint Development of Innovative Engines for Future Energy Environments

On May 28th, Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru announced their joint venture into developing next-generation engines, sharing a common understanding that internal combustion engines remain necessary even in the electric vehicle era. During this joint press conference, each company unveiled plans for developing new engines that prioritize fuel efficiency and enhanced power output, despite the ongoing shift towards electric vehicles.

Toyota President Kenji Sato, who attended the conference, stated, "Each company is dedicated to developing electric vehicles, but engines are also a crucial technology." He continued, "The three companies will leverage their respective identities to create innovative engines that address future energy environments."

Toyota unveiled a lightweight and highly efficient inline four-cylinder engine suitable for next-generation vehicles. This engine is slated for integration not only into plug-in hybrid vehicles but also conventional hybrid models. The optimal combination of motor and engine is designed to enhance both power output and fuel efficiency.

Mazda plans to continue advancing its rotary engine technology. Leveraging the lightweight nature and structural versatility of the rotary engine, including its ability to handle various fuels, they aim to explore combinations with carbon-neutral fuels like biofuels.

Meanwhile, Subaru intends to achieve greater efficiency in its hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles by integrating its low-center-of-gravity horizontally opposed engine with electric motors. They also plan to maintain the characteristics of their traditional horizontally opposed engine in future transitions to carbon-neutral fuels.

The joint announcement from these three companies signifies their commitment to accelerating the development of next-generation internal combustion engine technology in line with the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. It conveys their determination to explore diverse pathways towards achieving carbon neutrality while continuously advancing the technological capabilities that define their individual brands.