Toyota, Mazda and Subaru have announced a new collaboration on future engine technology in a move that has surprised some observers who expected the companies to be focused on electric powertrain technology. Instead they will also develop parallel technology that aims to optimise internal combustion power and make these engines carbon neutral. 

The three companies have each committed to developing new engines tailored to electrification and the pursuit of carbon neutrality. With these engines, each of the three companies will aim to optimise integration with motors, batteries, and other electric drive units. While transforming vehicle packaging with more compact engines, these efforts will also decarbonise ICEs by making them compatible with various carbon-neutral fuels.

In pursuing decarbonisation, all three companies have focused on carbon as the enemy and sought to expand options by acting with passion and purpose. This mindset has driven efforts to ensure a future for the supply chains and jobs that underpin engines. Under the extreme conditions of racing, the companies have worked to broaden powertrain and fuel options by competing with vehicles running on liquid hydrogen and CN fuels.

This process has clarified the role that future engines will play in achieving carbon neutrality. With the next generation of engines, the three companies will seek to not only improve standalone engine performance but also optimise their integration with electric drive units, harnessing the advantages of each.

While being highly efficient and powerful, the new engines will also revolutionise vehicle packaging by being more compact than existing models. Smaller engines will allow for even lower bonnets, improving design possibilities and aerodynamic performance while contributing to better fuel efficiency. The development will also emphasize compliance with increasingly strict emissions regulations.

At the same time, the new engines will be made carbon neutral by shifting away from fossil fuels and offering compatibility with various alternatives, including e-fuel (synthetic fuel), biofuels, and liquid hydrogen. In doing so, these engines will contribute to the broader adoption of CN fuels.

Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda will continue to develop their own signature engine technology. For example, Toyota will develop its inline-fours, Mazda rotary engines, and Subaru its horizontally opposed boxer. The companies will at the same time work together to achieve carbon neutrality through a multi-pathway approach, together with like-minded partners.