Toyota, Idemitsu Kosan, Eneos, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries have formed a partnership to conduct a joint study on the integration of carbon-neutral fuels into the automotive industry. The primary goal of this collaboration is to support the decarbonisation of the automotive sector and work towards achieving a carbon-neutral society by 2030. By leveraging their individual expertise in supply, technology, and demand, these four companies are committed to exploring the feasibility and implementation of carbon-neutral fuels within the automotive market.
The concept of carbon-neutral fuels revolves around the idea of minimising CO2 emissions throughout their entire lifecycle. This includes the development of synthetic fuels (e-fuels) created from hydrogen and CO2, as well as biofuels derived from plant materials that absorb CO2 through photosynthesis. The companies have highlighted the benefits of liquid carbon-neutral fuels, particularly in terms of energy storage and transportation, making them suitable for widespread use.
The collaborative study will involve the formulation of scenarios and roadmaps for the introduction of carbon-neutral fuels in the automotive market in Japan. This will encompass the development of necessary systems for market implementation, as well as the assessment of production feasibility from the perspective of Japan’s energy security.
Each company will bring its individual initiatives to the table as part of the collaborative effort. Idemitsu Kosan, guided by its 2050 vision “Shaping Change”, is committed to ensuring a steady supply of diverse, eco-friendly energy and aims to accelerate the introduction and spread of synthetic and biofuels through collaborative measures. Similarly, Eneos is dedicated to balancing a stable energy supply with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality. Their long-term vision includes initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions using hydrogen, renewable energy, and the development of carbon-neutral fuels.
Toyota, another key player in this partnership, is pursuing carbon neutrality through a multifaceted approach. This includes the reduction of CO2 emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles and the development of engines for electric vehicles. Notably, the company has previously introduced flex-fuel vehicles in Brazil and remains committed to reducing emissions from both existing and new vehicles.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) is actively working towards a “Mission Net Zero” by 2040, and has set forth plans to create a CO2 solutions ecosystem and a hydrogen solutions ecosystem. The company aims to contribute to carbon neutrality through its advanced technologies, products, and innovations developed in collaboration with global partners.
The collective effort of these prominent Japanese automakers signifies a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the integration of carbon-neutral fuels could play a pivotal role in reducing environmental impact and steering the sector towards a more eco-friendly trajectory. By leveraging their combined strengths and resources, these companies are poised to lead the way in the development and implementation of carbon-neutral fuels, ultimately driving positive change for the automotive industry and the environment as a whole.