Ford-Toyota JV to produce hybrid systems for pick-up trucks and SUVs

Ford and Toyota join hands

Ford and Toyota, two of the world’s biggest automakers have joined forces to develop hybrid systems for light pick-up trucks and SUVs. The two have signed a memorandum of understanding on the partnership with a final agreement expected in 2012. Pick-up trucks in America constitute a huge chunk of the total vehicle sold each year. The Ford F-150 is the best selling pick-up truck in America. In fact, it has been the best seller for decades.

Toyota is known for being very active in the development of new hybrid systems. The Toyota Prius is the very first hybrid car that has enjoyed a lot of success over the globe. Thus, this is seen as a joint venture between two heavy weights of the auto industry with Ford- makers of the F150 and Toyota- makers of Hybrid systems. In addition to this, both automakers will also cooperate to develop industry wide standards on in-car communication systems like in-car phones and integration of e-mails and social networks into infotainment systems.

Ford F-150 pick-up truck

Ford had been working on a hybrid system and had licensed Toyota’s hybrid system for the Ford Escape. The partnership will enable both automakers to offer hybrid products at a reasonable price. The problem with pick-up trucks has been their bad fuel efficiency. The US government has been talking about stringent emission norms for the future which call for a corporate average of 54.5 miles a gallon by 2025. This has prompted most automakers to rethink their strategies as the future calls for more and more fuel efficient and cleaner engines.

“This agreement brings together the capability of two global leaders in hybrid vehicles and hybrid technology to develop a better solution more quickly and affordably for our customers,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development.

Takeshi Uchiyamada, Toyota executive vice president, Research & Development, said: “We expect to create exciting technologies that benefit society with Ford – and we can do so through the experience the two companies have in hybrid technology.”

Share and Enjoy: