Mazda, Subaru, and Toyota have made a joint commitment to develop new engines as part of their efforts to decarbonize internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. In contrast to the growing trend of brands transitioning to electric vehicle (EV)-only line-ups, these Japanese automakers are focusing on optimizing engines with electric motors, drive units, and batteries. They believe that there is still a future for ICE vehicles, driven by a deep understanding of their customers’ diverse lifestyles.
One of the key aspects of their pursuit of carbon neutrality is the revolutionization of engine packaging. By developing compact engines, Mazda, Subaru, and Toyota aim to create smaller vehicles that offer better aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. This approach will also enable them to comply with increasingly strict emissions regulations. However, these engines won’t rely solely on petrol as a fuel source. The automakers are also prioritizing alternative fuels such as biofuels, synthetic e-fuels, and hydrogen.
According to Mazda’s president and CEO, Masahiro Moro, the goal is to continue offering customers exciting cars by honing internal combustion engines for the electrification era while exploring multiple pathways to achieve carbon neutrality. Subaru’s president and CEO, Atsushi Osaki, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of using carbon-neutral fuels in the future alongside advancements in electrification technology. Toyota’s president and CEO, Koji Sato, described the collaboration between the three brands as “friendly competition” that allows customers to have diverse options for driving carbon neutrally. Sato emphasized the need for evolving engines that align with the future energy environment to provide customers with a range of choices for achieving carbon neutrality.
Despite their commitment to developing new engines, Toyota remains heavily invested in EVs. The company plans to launch at least 30 new electric models by 2030 and aims to sell 3.5 million EVs worldwide each year. In Europe alone, Toyota plans to introduce ten new electric models by 2025, including the Urban Crossover concept unveiled in late 2023. However, smaller vehicles like the Aygo will not make the switch to electric power due to the high cost of batteries.
Mazda has set aside a substantial budget of £8.7 billion to electrify its model line-up by 2028, while Subaru plans to have an eight-strong EV line-up by the same year. These investments demonstrate their commitment to embracing electrification alongside the development of new engines.
In conclusion, Mazda, Subaru, and Toyota’s decision to develop new engines highlights their belief in a future for ICE vehicles and their dedication to providing customers with diverse options for achieving carbon neutrality. By optimizing engines with electric components and exploring alternative fuels, they aim to create smaller, more efficient vehicles that comply with emissions regulations. While they are investing heavily in electrification, they recognize the importance of refining internal combustion engines to meet the demands of the electrification era. Their collaborative efforts demonstrate their commitment to sustainable mobility and addressing the challenges of a changing energy landscape.
