Toyota and Suzuki have announced an agreement to further their plans to collaborate in new fields after resolving to pool their expertise to develop alternative fuel vehicles (AFV) and compact cars.

The two Japanese manufacturers concluded a memorandum of understanding toward business partnership on February 6, 2017, but intend to broaden their joint collaboration to drive their development and production of electrified vehicles, a statement issued today (March 2) has revealed).

Toyota’s supply of its THS (Toyota Hybrid System) will form part of the agreement.

Suzuki’s compact vehicle engines will be manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Poland, meanwhile, as the brand provides vehicle platforms to help Toyota drive sales in the African market.

Toyota’s President, Akio Toyoda, said: “When it comes to vehicle electrification, which is expected to make further inroads, hybrid technologies are seen as playing a huge role in many markets, as from before.

“Through our new agreement, we look forward to the wider use of hybrid technologies, not only in India and Europe, but around the world.

“At the same time, we believe that the expansion of our business partnership with Suzuki—from the mutual supply of vehicles and powertrains to the domains of development and production—will help give us the competitive edge we will need to survive this once-in-a-century period of profound transformation.”

Suzuki chairman, Osamu Suzuki, said: “At the time we announced our scope of cooperation in May last year, I spoke that we will strive for success globally.

“I have seen progress in the partnership since then, and it is my pleasure to be able to make this announcement today regarding the status of partnership on a global basis, including Europe and Africa.

“In addition, we appreciate the kind offer from Toyota to let us make use of their hybrid technology. We will continue our utmost efforts.”

  • For views and insights into how motor retail will adapt to new technologies come to the Automotive Retail Congress on May 21. Click here for more details.