BMW and Toyota Agree on Green Technology Co-Development

ToyotaToyotaJapan, 1937 > present155 models
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President Akio Toyoda and BMWBMWGermany, 1918 > present87 models
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Chairman Norbert Reithofer signed a memorandum of understanding today in Munich that the two companies would begin sharing hybrid and fuel cell technology and begin developing new technology together. 

The memorandum covers four areas. BMW and Toyota will co-develop fuel cells. They will co-develop a future sports vehicle. They will work on electric powertrains together and develop cheaper lightweight technologies. 

“We aim to further strengthen our competitive position in sustainable future technologies. We signed an MoU to this effect today. Toyota and the BMW Group share the same strategic vision of sustainable individual future mobility," said Reithofer.

“BMW and Toyota both want to make ever-better cars. We respect each other. And I think this is shown by our taking the next step only six months since the signing of our initial agreement. Toyota is strong in environment-friendly hybrids and fuel cells. On the other hand, I believe BMW’s strength is in developing sports cars," said Toyoda.

BMW will also begin supplying Toyota with 1.6 liter- and 2.0 liter diesel engines beginning in 2014. 

That BMW and Toyota are working on a sports car together is very interesting. The last time Toyota colaborated on a sports car the GT86Toyota GT 86Japan, 2012 > present9 photos
was the product. What will a BMW/Toyota sports car be like?