Amid the global shift toward electrification, several automakers are championing the evolution of combustion engines through innovative fuel solutions. Toyota, Mazda, Subaru, Suzuki, and Daihatsu have joined forces with ENEOS Corporation to develop vehicles powered by synthetic fuels. These vehicles will be showcased during Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, where they will transport guests over a six-month period. The event highlights groundbreaking technologies, including advancements in space exploration, medicine, robotics, and more. This collaboration aims to promote carbon-neutral fuels as a viable alternative to traditional gasoline.

In September 2024, ENEOS Corporation achieved a milestone by completing Japan's first demonstration factory capable of producing synthetic gasoline. This facility generates approximately 42 gallons of fuel daily, utilizing hydrogen and carbon dioxide to create an environmentally friendly energy source. The partnership between Toyota, Mazda, and Subaru focuses on developing specialized "signature engines" designed to operate on carbon-neutral fuels such as liquid hydrogen, biofuel, and synthetic fuel. Each brand is contributing unique engine designs; for instance, Toyota is working on three inline-four engines, while Mazda is exploring rotary engines and a new Skyactiv-Z four-cylinder model. Subaru continues its commitment to refining the boxer engine, a design favored by Toyota.

The collaboration extends beyond engine development to include vehicle contributions from Suzuki and Daihatsu for the Expo 2025 event. These companies aim to demonstrate the practicality and sustainability of synthetic fuel-powered transportation. By integrating cutting-edge technology with traditional combustion engines, the automakers hope to redefine the future of automotive propulsion systems.

Expo 2025 in Osaka presents a platform for showcasing innovations across various industries. With participation from over 160 global entities, including China and the United States, the event emphasizes progress in fields like space technology, medical advancements, robotics, and next-generation mobility solutions. The inclusion of synthetic fuel-powered vehicles underscores the potential for cleaner energy alternatives within the automotive sector.

As the world embraces technological advancements, the efforts of these automakers highlight the importance of diversifying energy sources. By demonstrating the feasibility of synthetic fuels in real-world applications, they contribute to a broader conversation about sustainable transportation options. The success of this initiative could pave the way for widespread adoption of carbon-neutral fuels, offering a balanced approach to reducing emissions while maintaining the performance and versatility of combustion engines.