Since joining forces last year in order to share powertrain technologies, Mazda and Toyota have been discussing electric vehicles and connected tech as part of at least 10 potential areas for cooperation.
During a briefing in Tokyo, Mazda executive VP Akira Marumoto admitted to having broad discussions with Toyota, though he declined to share more details regarding the talks the two automakers have held more recently.
By working closely together, Toyota and Mazda would simply follow in the footsteps of other large Japanese automakers which are consolidating the industry by way of acquisition or alliance.
Toyota already bought out Daihatsu Motor Co earlier this year and is currently exploring an R&D partnership with Suzuki, as reported by Autonews. Furthermore, Toyota is also the majority owner of Hino Motors, the largest shareholder in Subaru maker Fuji Heavy Industries, and has a stake in Isuzu Motors.
As of right now, Toyota representatives have declined to comment on any new directions their talks with Mazda might point towards, though one would imagine that if their partnership is to be utilized fully, the two automakers could share a lot more than just hybrid systems.
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