Toyota May License Hybrid Technology to Subaru

Subaru Would Join Nissan as Toyota Hybrid Buyer

"If you can't beat 'em, join 'em," seems a fitting expression when referring to Toyota's dominance in the combustion-electric

While Toyota is still the leader in the field, more and more automakers are entering the gasoline-electric hybrid segment. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

hybrid war currently being played out by the world's foremost automakers.

While Honda continues to be Toyota's most capable rival, despite its use of mild-hybrid technology which is considered less advanced compared to the full hybrid systems offered by Toyota and now Ford, more and more automakers are entering the hybrid gasoline-electric segment.

DaimlerChrysler and General Motors recently announced a cooperative deal to develop and manufacture a proprietary hybrid system the two automakers will share in upcoming models, but being late to the game both companies have given much of the market to Honda and Toyota. GM recently entered the fray with its mild-hybrid Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 pickup trucks, but these are expected to be purchased by fleet

If Toyota does license its technology to Subaru, it will take Japan's number one automaker's technology a step closer to becoming the new global hybrid standard. (Photo: Subaru Canada)

buyers looking to do the right thing for their company images as well as potentially save on escalating fuel costs.

Another automaker having announced a future hybrid is Nissan Motor Co., which in so doing spoke of a cooperative deal with Toyota to license its Hybrid Synergy Drive system for an upcoming gasoline-electric Altima.

If Subaru follows suit, a trend could be forming that would make Toyota's system the new hybrid standard, sort of the VHS video tape player of the alternative automotive supplier business, with Honda playing out the doomed role of Beta.