Mazda and Toyota team off-track -- could on-track collaboration be in the cards?

Over the decades, Mazda has partnered with multiple automakers, most notably Ford, which once owned a large stake in the Japanese company.

But now, Mazda and Toyota have partnered on some projects, and while none have been on the track, the two companies are well-known for their motorsports endeavors. Could a racing partnership be in the cards? No one is talking, but it certainly seems possible.

The latest: The two automakers announced today they have entered into a long-term partnership that will use resources and strengths from both companies to build more emotional vehicles that will thrive on the global stage. 

“Mazda has proven that it always thinks of what is coming next for vehicles and technology, while still managing to stay true to its basic car-making roots,” said Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda. “In this way, Mazda very much practices what Toyota holds dear: making ever-better cars.” 

The first step in the partnership is to create a joint committee to determine the best way to combine the knowledge and strengths of both automakers. 

Previous collaboration between Toyota and Mazda has included the licensing of Toyota’s hybrid technologies to Mazda and the production of compact cars for Toyota at Mazda’s plant in Mexico. 

“Mazda identifies with the way Toyota cherishes its roots and all of the communities it is involved in,” said Mazda President and CEO Masamichi Kogai. “It is no wonder they are held in great esteem in return. I hope that by working together to make cars better, we can raise the value of cars in the eyes of consumers.”

And, possibly, the racing community?