Toyota, Suzuki in talks

Toyota and Suzuki are discussing a wide-ranging business partnership, says The New York Times. While both carmakers were vague about what the partnership would entail, the companies’ top leaders have addressed the partnership talks at an early stage, suggesting that they are committed to completing a deal. Akio Toyoda, president and chief executive of Toyota, says: “Everything, including the possibility of a capital tie-up, will be discussed going forward.” A partnership between the companies would give Toyota an increased presence in places like India, where Suzuki is the leading manufacturer through its Maruti Suzuki affiliate. Meanwhile, Suzuki would benefit from Toyota’s scale and resources, which are becoming increasingly crucial in developing new technologies, such as autonomous cars and electric vehicles.