Toyota, Subaru and Mazda Collaborate to Develop Carbon-Neutral Engines

These three Japanese automobile manufacturers have collaborated to develop compact combustion engines that can run on carbon-neutral fuels. 

As you know, most manufacturers are shifting towards electrification, but it’s interesting to see that these three brands have still shown faith in making sustainable combustion engines. 

So, let’s read more about the new venture done by Toyota in collaboration with Subaru and Mazda. 

The Trio’s Perception

Toyota, Mazda and Subaru believe that combustion engines (as a whole) are not to be blamed for producing combustions. In other words, the trio is confident that they can develop combustion engines with different mechanisms, capable of supporting carbon-neutral (CN) fuels.

Moreover, as per the carmakers, the new engines will depart from fossil fuels, and will rather support several alternative fuels, such as liquid hydrogen, biofuels, and e-fuel (synthetic fuel). 

These brands stated, “With these engines, each of the three companies will aim to optimize integration with motors, batteries, and other electric drive units.”

More so, the ambitious Japanese automobile manufacturers have also showcased their potential engines that can run on alternate fuels, therefore supporting carbon-neutral fuels. That said, Toyota showcased a prototype of the Prius that can run on a newly developed 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a larger 2.0-litre engine. 

Meanwhile, Mazda demonstrated its rotary EV system, comprising one or two generator rotors. 

Lastly, Subaru showcased a camouflaged prototype of the Crosstek that can run on the next-generation hybrid engine. 

Other Highlights

Toyota, Mazda and Subaru also made it clear that they would still be competitors of each other despite working together on producing efficient and sustainable powertrains. 

Here’s what the high officials from these three companies stated regarding this new venture. 

- Koji Sato, President and CEO, Member of the Board of Directors, of Toyota Corporation, stated "In order 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, Representative Director, President, and CEO, of Mazda Motor Corporation said “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.”

- Atsushi Osaki, Representative Director, President, and CEO, of Subaru Corporation, said “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 with an aim to use carbon-neutral fuels in the future. Moving forward, the three companies sharing the same aspiration will continue to advance the pursuit of sustainable excellence in Japanese car manufacturing.”