Breaking News: Toyota in talks with Mazda to supply hybrid technology from Prius

Toyota is reportedly in negotiations to supply hybrid technology found in its Prius to Mazda. This report insinuates that Mazda is shunning the hybrid system, which Ford is developing.

According further to The Nikkei, the talks for the agreement are in its final stages, under which Toyota will provide the key hybrid system components (battery, motor, and other electronics) to Mazda. Currently, Ford owns about 13.8% of Mazda. It is believed a Toyota-Mazda deal would allow Mazda more independence from Ford. Today, Toyota said that it would consider sharing its technology with other carmakers so as to improve global sales.
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800over - 7/18/2009 1:03:07 PM

+1 Boost

Just trying to be slick? Is that code for doing what's best for itself and not for other companies it competes against? What are you a communist? USA is based on free enterprise. How can you blame Toyota if other companies want its tech? No one is forcing anyone to deal with them.

Bmw8ter - 7/18/2009 8:10:07 AM

+1 Boost

They're are loads of hybrid and electric, motor and powertrain developers all over the world that have incredible ideas, and are just trying to break into the market with them. I don't see why they don't do an "X Prize" like competition for development of an independent system for mazda. You'd see them all come crawling out of the woodwork.

If they were to accept Toyota's system, there's no doubt they'd have to enter into an idiot agreement not to pursue hybrid drivetrains for a certain number of years. And by that time Toyota will have patented to perfect design, and then you're fk'd.

Bmw8ter - 7/18/2009 8:11:27 AM

+5 Boost

We need an "edit" button g******it!!!!

Type707 - 7/18/2009 1:11:36 PM

-1 Boost

Numb Nuts can't develop their own hybrid technology?

bfghemicuda - 7/20/2009 11:02:27 AM

+1 Boost

What in the world is 'Controlled socialists free market system". What a load. True capitalism creates competition which is good. The capitalistic system does hold corps accountable. Consumers have the largest voice with there spending dollar. Today Our capitalistic system is has been infected with social crap and the largest trend in complaisant attitudes. Ive been reading your comments and your not fooling anyone. I wonder sometime if you really understand what you are saying. Your moniker should be SmokeScreen

Bmw8ter - 7/20/2009 9:40:48 PM

+1 Boost

bfghemicuda, if the capitalistic system holds corps. accountable, then how do you explain the steaming pile of crap that is out healthcare system, where not a single insurer is held accountable for anything. They can set their own prices. Deny anyone who might be a liability. Hike rates whenever they want. It's s***. It's like a game of kickball back in grade school: I want him because I see the greatest return on my pick. That other guy sucks, and I don't want him playing.

I'm not saying the care sucks, but I think it's a total crock of s*** that I have to pay an insurance company monthly premiums only for them to tell me, "we don't cover that medication"; "we don't cover that procedure." F*** capitalism in this regard. It creates "creative" greed.

There's certainly nothing socialist about our healthcare system.

bfghemicuda - 7/20/2009 11:08:41 PM

+2 Boost

bmw8ter I understand what your saying about current healthcare and this is a tuff one in the fact that I wouldnt want to try to shop around for the cheapest spine surgeon. My comment was mainly aimed at durable goods. As far as healthcare is concerned I have a handicaped daughter and the Ins Co won't touch her so I share in your frustration.