Subaru Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Mazda Motor Corporation have announced a ground-breaking partnership in which they will work together to create new engines specifically suited to electrification and carbon neutrality. By improving integration with electric drive units, converting vehicle packaging, and making internal combustion engines (ICEs) compatible with a range of carbon-neutral (CN) fuels, this programme seeks to revolutionise ICEs.
The programme is being driven by a shared vision and passion, as highlighted by key leaders from all three companies: Masahiro Moro of Mazda, Koji Sato of Toyota, and Atsushi Osaki of Subaru. By developing sustainable technology, they hope to secure the future of supply chains, employment, and the automotive sector overall.
A range of carbon-neutral fuels, such as liquid hydrogen, biofuels, and synthetic fuels (also known as e-fuels), will be compatible with the new engines. Decarbonising ICEs and promoting the wider use of CN fuels are the goals of this move away from fossil fuels. In addition, the engines will comply with ever-tougher emissions standards, which will further promote environmental sustainability.
In addition to improving standalone engine performance, the collaboration will focus on optimizing the integration of engines with motors, batteries, and other electric drive units. This will result in more compact and efficient engines, allowing for innovative vehicle designs with lower hoods, improved aerodynamics, and better fuel efficiency.
Atsushi Osaki, Subaru Corporation: “Achieving a carbon-neutral society is a challenge that must be undertaken by all of Japan’s industries and society as a whole. As we continue to refine electrification technology, we will also enhance our horizontally opposed engines to use carbon-neutral fuels in the future.”
Koji Sato, Toyota Motor Corporation: “To provide our customers with diverse options to achieve carbon neutrality, it is necessary to take on the challenge of evolving engines that are in tune with the energy environment of the future. The three companies, which share the same aspirations, will refine engine technologies through friendly competition.”
Masahiro Moro, Mazda Motor Corporation: “We will continue to offer customers exciting cars by honing internal combustion engines for the electrification era and expanding the multi-pathway possibilities for achieving carbon neutrality. Given the rotary engine’s compatibility with electrification and carbon-neutral fuels, Mazda will continue to develop the technology through co-creation and competition to ensure it can contribute broadly to society.”
This collaboration underscores a shared dedication to achieving carbon neutrality through a multi-pathway approach. Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda, while competing in the automotive market, are united in their efforts to develop sustainable engine technologies. Together with like-minded partners, they are poised to shape the future of Japan’s auto industry and contribute significantly to global carbon neutrality goals.
