Most drivers probably consider Ford and Toyota to be rivals within the auto industry, but the two companies recently teamed up to create improved hybrid technologies. Despite the intent to form a long-lasting joint partnership, the manufacturers have now announced they will be going their separate ways.
First announced in August 2011, the collaboration aimed to create a hybrid platform for trucks and SUVs. According to AutoBlog, the end of the partnership likely means the hybrid models won't make an appearance for some time - leaving drivers to grapple with large gas-guzzling vehicles that often require hefty financial investments and potentially a lot of vehicle maintenance.
"We know what it takes to build world-class hybrids," said Raj Nair, of Ford's global product development. "By continuing to develop a rear-wheel-drive hybrid system on our own, we can extend our advanced hybrid technologies to new vehicle segments and deliver even better fuel economy across our lineup."
Teaming up to create hybrids may not have panned out for the automakers, but that won't keep them from working together in the future. USA Today reports that the two companies could put their heads together for infotainment systems and other telematics.