Volkswagen and Toshiba have signed a letter of intent to develop electric drive units and accompanying power electronics for Volkswagen’s planned new small family of vehicles.

The two companies are also planning development of battery systems with a high specific energy density for the next generation of electric vehicles.

Prof. Dr Martin Winterkorn, chairman of the board of management at Volkswagen AG, said Volkswagen’s objective was to be the first manufacturer to provide an emissions-free, affordable and safe large-scale production electric vehicle.

He added: “Volkswagen is forging ahead with the development of future drive technologies in many different areas. In order to strengthen our position further, Volkswagen is investing in the long term and is offering cooperation projects to other companies.

“One of the important components in this context is the cooperation with Toshiba. I am convinced that this will be a major step forwards towards the development of series production electric vehicles for our customers."