Toyota and BMW announce technology partnership
At a press conference in Munich, BMW's historic headquarters, the president of the German marque, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, announced the expansion of technology collaboration with Toyota, in the presence of Akio Toyoda, his Japanese counterpart. This new alliance comes after the Peugeot and General Motors announced their cooperation earlier this year.
After an initial agreement in December 2011, both companies had already entered into a partnership last March on research in the field of fuel cells and the supply of BMW diesel engines for the European market. Now the cooperation is extended to research on electric vehicles, reducing vehicle weight and the design of future vehicles, including a sports car.
Toyota, who has lost global leadership in 2011 in favour of General Motors, was a pioneer of hybrid cars with the Prius. The Japanese manufacturer has used knowledge and experience of hybridization to develop the new TS030 Hybrid, seen for the first time at the 2012 Le Mans 24 Hours, the third round of the FIA World Endurance Championship, in which Toyota is registered as a manufacturer. Neither of the two cars crossed the finish line, the first having retired due to an accident and the second with an engine problem, but they have shown a clear potential with the highest top speed on the grid.
Dr. Norbert Reithoher: "We aim to further strengthen our competitive position in sustainable future technologies. We signed a Memorandum of Understanding to this effect today... One thing is certain: We aim to shape this iconic change as pioneers and a driving force. And we will do so in a responsible and sustainable manner. Together, we have a great opportunity to continue leading our industry through this transformation. That is why we are pooling our expertise."
Dave Davies (quote from BMW press information).
Photo : LE MANS (SARTHE, FRANCE), CIRCUIT DES 24 HEURES, 24 HEURES DU MANS, Wednesday 13th JUNE 2012, FREE PRACTICE. Toyota extend technology partnership with BMW.