Mazda and Toyota Forge Future Collaboration for Unified In-Vehicle Systems

In a strategic move towards streamlining development costs, Mazda and Toyota, two prominent Japanese car manufacturers, have joined forces to create a unified in-vehicle software and hardware system. This collaborative effort aims to not only share the same operating system but also incorporate components like the electronic control unit and wiring harnesses. By pooling resources and expertise, the partnership seeks to significantly reduce costs associated with software development.

The collaboration extends beyond a mere sharing of technologies; it envisions a future where Mazda’s battery-electric vehicles, slated for launch from 2027 onwards, will boast in-vehicle systems that bear a remarkable 90% resemblance to those featured in Toyota models. This alignment signifies a substantial convergence in the technological landscape, where both companies leverage shared innovations to enhance efficiency and drive down development expenses.

Developing software for vehicles is a resource-intensive undertaking, with substantial financial investments required. Industry insiders reveal that some car manufacturers and auto parts suppliers allocate up to $2 billion annually for software development. Mazda’s foresight in partnering with Toyota is driven by the prospect of saving hundreds of millions of dollars each year, potentially achieving a remarkable reduction of development costs ranging between 70% and 80%.

As automotive technology evolves, in-vehicle systems and infotainment operating systems are poised to play a pivotal role. Beyond serving as interfaces for driver and passenger convenience, these systems are becoming increasingly crucial for introducing new functionalities, including advanced driver-assistance technologies. Industry analysts predict that the shift towards software-defined vehicles will unlock substantial value potential, contributing more than $650 billion to the automotive industry by 2030.

The collaboration between Mazda and Toyota is not a novel initiative; the two companies initiated a partnership in 2015, focusing on the exchange of powertrain technologies. Over the years, this collaboration has deepened, with the latest manifestation being the current Mazda2, essentially a rebranded version of the Toyota Yaris.

Looking ahead to Mazda’s electric vehicle (EV) plans, Chief Executive Masahiro Moro outlined the company’s vision to introduce seven or eight EVs into its lineup by 2030. Anticipating that these EVs could constitute 25-40% of global sales, Mazda plans to channel its electric ambitions through the dedicated e-Mazda division, all built on a scalable platform.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts between Mazda and Toyota underscore a forward-looking approach to automotive technology. By merging their strengths and aligning their in-vehicle systems, the companies not only anticipate substantial cost savings but also position themselves at the forefront of the evolving automotive landscape. The partnership sets the stage for a future where unified technologies foster innovation, drive efficiency, and pave the way for a new era of interconnected and software-defined vehicles.

Photo Source: Mazda Toyota Manufacturing