DHAKA: Japan’s eight carmakers have joined forces to develop environmentally friendly engines to stave off fierce competition from foreign rivals.

A press report said Sunday, according to The Straits Times.

Two of Japan’s leading universities will join Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Daihatsu and Fuji Heavy in the project, which is mainly aimed at slashing engine emissions to meet tougher environmental standards.

The business daily Nikkei reported.

By 2020 the group, which includes the University of Tokyo and Waseda University, plans to develop technology which can cut diesel engine carbon-dioxide emissions by 30 percent from 2010 levels.

The manufacturers plan to adapt the technology for commercial use in both diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles, the Nikkei said, hoping to gain a leg up over European carmakers as well as helping to meet tightening environmental regulations around the world.

BDST: 1558 HRS, MAY 18, 2014