Toyota, Suzuki tying up in technology, ecology partnership

The world's top automaker Toyota Motor Corp. and small rival Suzuki Motor Corp. that specializes in tiny vehicles are tying up in a partnership, the two automakers said Wednesday. Both sides announced in a joint statement they will study areas they can work together in developing technology for the environment, safety and information networking. They said such areas are likely to benefit from a partnership since the industry is changing rapidly in those areas. Toyota and Suzuki said they will continue to compete in other ways. They expressed hopes other automakers will join the partnership to help work toward an industry standard in such areas.