Three of Japan’s leading car manufacturers have made it clear – they will continue to build internal combustion engines to achieve carbon neutrality.

Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda held a joint press conference to announce the development of new engines tailored to electrification.

During the presentation, Toyota showcased a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine paired with a hybrid drive system, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that is compatible with carbon-neutral fuels.

Meanwhile, Subaru exhibited the next-generation Boxer hybrid system that is currently in prototype phase with the Crosstrek crossover. The next-generation hybrid is a system of Subaru that was co-developed with Toyota.

Lastly, Mazda is intent on developing its rotary EV system by showcasing a single and two-rotor concept. By our understanding, the two concepts will still feature the rotary engine as a range extender – similar to what Nissan is doing with their e-Power system where the ICE only acts to charge the batteries for the electric motor.

While each will still build their signature engines (Subaru boxer, Toyota Atkinson cycle, Mazda rotary), they will share a common goal in optimizing the package for electric motor, battery, and other electric drive unit integration. Along with improving the packaging, the three will also build their engines to be compatible with various carbon-neutral fuels and emphasize compliance with increasingly strict emissions regulations.