A report from Kyodo News cites “industry sources” as saying that Japan’s eight major automakers will partner on basic research into fuel-efficient and eco-friendly engines to minimize the cost of the research.

The eight automakers, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, Daihatsu, Fuji Heavy Industries, Mazda, and Mitsubishi will focus on technology for reducing emissions from diesel engines among other areas, according to the sources.

However, the partnership will not extend to joint engine development projects, as the partners are also competitors, according to the sources.