New Powertrain Development for Trucks and SUVs

Both Ford and Toyota have independently developed hybrid systems with the aim of further improving fuel efficiency. It has now been announced that they will jointly develop powertrains for small trucks and SUVs.

This hybrid system is expected to have a different system configuration from those of both companies to date, with only the technologies and components being shared, and each company will implement it in their vehicles independently.

Derek Kuzak, Ford's Group Vice President of Global Product Development, and Takeshi Uchiyamada, Technical Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Corporation, commented on this agreement as follows:

"This agreement in hybrid technology development will enable us to offer better solutions quickly and affordably. Ford's Fusion Hybrid was a product that propelled us forward. We want to deliver similar hit products again to our valued truck customers," said Kuzak.

"Since launching the Prius, the world's first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, in 1997, we have sold approximately 3.3 million hybrid vehicles to date. By combining the strengths of both companies, which have extensive experience in hybrid technology, we will strive to create groundbreaking new technologies and contribute to society," said Uchiyamada.

An Agreement Aimed at Creating "Better Cars"

Furthermore, recognizing the growing role of telematics in the automotive society, both companies have also agreed to collaborate on complementing their telematics platforms. Currently, Ford offers solutions such as "SYNC" and "MyFord Touch," while Toyota Motor Corporation offers "G-BOOK" and "G-LINK." Regarding this collaboration, the objective is to leverage each other's experience to develop safer and more secure solutions and to expand them globally.

Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota Motor Corporation, stated, "I am deeply honored to be able to work on new technology development with Ford. This partnership is truly about creating 'better cars,' and I believe it is a significant step towards building a future mobility society in the United States. We aim to build a long-term global cooperative relationship with Ford and continue to deliver cars that exceed expectations."

Batteries and IT technologies mounted in automobiles are indispensable for promoting smart grids. We look forward to this collaboration, which will enable automobiles to possess even greater potential in the next generation and, in President Toyoda's words, become "better cars."