Mazda and Toyota are set to revolutionize their future vehicle models by jointly developing in-vehicle software and hardware systems, sharing the same operating system. This strategic collaboration aims to significantly cut costs, encompassing not only infotainment and driver display operating systems but also electronic control units and wiring harnesses.
The partnership is geared towards achieving a remarkable 90% similarity in the in-vehicle systems of Mazda’s battery-electric vehicles, slated for launch from 2027, with those featured in Toyota models. The move is anticipated to result in substantial cost savings for Mazda, potentially reducing development costs by an impressive 70% to 80%.
Software development in the automotive industry can be an expensive endeavor, with some entities investing up to $2 billion annually. By pooling resources with Toyota, Mazda envisions saving hundreds of millions of dollars each year, fostering efficiency and innovation.
The future significance of in-vehicle systems and infotainment operating systems is expected to soar, enabling car manufacturers to offer personalized content to owners and introduce advanced driver-assistance technologies. Industry experts predict that software-defined vehicles could generate over $650 billion in value for the automotive sector by 2030.
Toyota and Mazda have a longstanding collaboration, dating back to their 2015 partnership on powertrain technologies. This synergy has evolved, with Mazda’s current Mazda2 being essentially a rebranded version of the Toyota Yaris.
Mazda’s ambitious electric vehicle (EV) plans align with its commitment to have seven or eight EVs in its lineup by 2030, constituting 25-40% of its global sales. These future EVs will be developed and marketed through the e-Mazda division, featuring a scalable platform for enhanced adaptability and efficiency.