Combustion Engines Get a Second Wind: Toyota, Mazda, Subaru Fuel the Future at Expo 2025
The automotive giants are betting on synthetic fuels to keep internal combustion alive, showcasing their advancements at the world stage.
Published: October 26, 2024
While electric vehicles (EVs) dominate headlines, a coalition of Japanese automakers is doubling down on internal combustion engines (ICE), fueled by innovation and synthetic fuels. Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru are actively working to not only keep ICE alive but also make them cleaner and more efficient.Their commitment will be on full display at the Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, where they will provide vehicles running on a synthetic fuel blend to transport guests.
This isn’t just about clinging to the past; it’s a strategic move. As Akio Toyoda, then-president of Toyota, stated, the goal is to offer a variety of options to suit different needs and circumstances. The U.S. market, with its diverse driving conditions and infrastructure, exemplifies this need for varied solutions.While EVs are gaining traction,many Americans still rely on the affordability and familiarity of gasoline-powered vehicles.
The fuel powering these vehicles at Expo 2025 will be supplied by ENEOS Corporation. In September 2024,ENEOS completed Japan’s first demonstration factory capable of producing synthetic gasoline. This facility can produce 42 gallons of fuel daily,a clean energy source derived from hydrogen and carbon dioxide. This development echoes Porsche’s advancements in synthetic fuel production, demonstrating a global interest in sustainable alternatives to customary gasoline.
Suzuki and Daihatsu will also contribute vehicles to the Expo, highlighting a unified Japanese effort to showcase automotive innovation.
The partnership between toyota,Mazda,and Subaru is focused on developing brand-specific “signature engines” designed to run on carbon-neutral fuels,including liquid hydrogen,biofuel,and synthetic fuel. Each company brings unique expertise to the table:
- Toyota: Developing three inline-four engines,focusing on efficiency and performance.
- Mazda: Continuing its work on rotary engines and a new Skyactiv-Z four-cylinder, pushing the boundaries of combustion technology.
- Subaru: Refining its iconic boxer engine, known for its balance and low center of gravity.
These efforts are not happening in a vacuum. Global automakers and energy companies are investing heavily in researching and developing choice fuels. in the U.S.,companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron are exploring algae-based biofuels and carbon capture technologies,signaling a broader shift towards sustainable energy solutions within the automotive sector.
Expo 2025: A Showcase of Innovation
The Expo 2025 in Osaka, scheduled to run for six months, is more than just a trade show; it’s a global stage for showcasing cutting-edge technology. According to the Associated Press, the event will feature over 160 participants from around the world, including the United States and China, displaying advancements in various fields, including space technology, medicine, robotics, flying vehicles, and other next-generation industries. The U.S. presence highlights the country’s commitment to global collaboration and innovation across multiple sectors. The convergence of these technologies underscores the interconnectedness of future advancements.
For U.S. businesses and consumers, the Expo offers a glimpse into the future.The technologies on display could shape industries, create new jobs, and improve everyday life. For example, advancements in robotics could lead to more efficient manufacturing processes in the U.S., while breakthroughs in medicine could offer new treatments for diseases affecting Americans.
| Company | Focus | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota | Inline-Four Engines | Synthetic fuel, Biofuel, Liquid Hydrogen |
| mazda | rotary & Skyactiv-Z Engines | Synthetic Fuel, Biofuel |
| Subaru | Boxer Engine | Synthetic Fuel, biofuel |
| ENEOS Corporation | Fuel Production | Synthetic Gasoline |
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
While the commitment of toyota, Mazda, and Subaru to internal combustion engine technology is encouraging, significant challenges remain.The widespread adoption of synthetic fuels depends on several factors, including production costs, infrastructure development, and regulatory support. The U.S. government, through initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act, is investing in clean energy technologies, which could possibly support the development of synthetic fuel production in the country.
One potential counterargument to this approach is the efficiency of EVs.Electric vehicles are generally more energy-efficient than gasoline-powered cars, meaning they can travel further on the same amount of energy. though, the environmental impact of battery production and disposal, as well as the source of electricity used to charge EVs, needs to be considered. Synthetic fuels offer a potential pathway to decarbonize the existing vehicle fleet and leverage existing infrastructure.
Ultimately, the future of transportation will likely involve a mix of technologies, including EVs, hybrids, and vehicles powered by alternative fuels. The commitment of Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru to innovation in internal combustion engines ensures that this technology remains a viable option for consumers and contributes to a more sustainable transportation system.
