Tokyo, Japan & Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Germany – In an automotive alliance that sounds more like a superhero team-up, Daimler Truck, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation, Hino Motors, and Toyota Motor Corporation have rolled out an update on their groundbreaking collaboration. This partnership, cemented by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inked in May 2023, aims to turbocharge the development of cutting-edge technologies and seal the deal on a merger between MFTBC and Hino. The ultimate quest? To steer the commercial vehicle world towards carbon neutrality and pave the way for a thriving mobility society.
By embracing CASE technologies (Connected, Autonomous & Automated, Shared, Electric), the quartet is shifting gears to strengthen their commercial vehicle business on a global scale. The merger plan puts MFTBC and Hino in the driver’s seat to create a commercial vehicle powerhouse that could outpace global competition, with Daimler Truck and Toyota fueling the venture with equal investments.
However, like any epic journey, there are hurdles along the way. The completion of the MFTBC and Hino merger, originally set to cross the finish line by the end of 2024, has hit a speed bump. Regulatory clearances and a pit stop for Hino’s engine certification investigations have thrown a wrench in the works, leading to an extension of the timeline.
Despite these challenges, the automotive Avengers remain undeterred. They’ve pledged to keep the world posted on their progress, awaiting a green light from the relevant authorities, shareholders, and directors.
At the heart of this alliance is a shared vision to fuel a prosperous society through innovative mobility solutions. Through spirited discussions and a deep dive into each other’s corporate cultures and strengths, the companies are fine-tuning their strategy. They remain committed to driving forward their partnership, proving that when it comes to transforming the automotive landscape, teamwork is the ultimate superpower.
