OSAKA -- Sanyo Electric Co. and Samsung Electronics Co. of South Korea are discussing the possibility of forming an alliance aimed at codeveloping advanced technologies, according to Sanyo officials.
The two companies would share technologies to develop high-tech products such as fuel cells and cogeneration systems, which provide both electricity and heat, they said Friday, adding the plan would raise the competitiveness of the Osaka-based electric firm in Asian markets by reducing development costs. The deal is designed to bring together the complementary strengths of the firms.
Samsung holds the largest market share for dynamic random access memory chips and is a leader in developing electronic components such as liquid crystal displays. Sanyo is known for its top-level technology in developing rechargeable batteries and creating products such as solar power generation systems and battery systems for hybrid motor vehicles.
News of the plan comes a few days after Sanyo signed a wide-ranging tieup in the area of home appliance sales with Haier Group Co., China's largest home appliance maker.
That plan is intended to counter moves by Chinese and South Korean manufacturers to make inroads into Japanese markets.
Sanyo hopes it will enhance its competitiveness and expand its sales network in Asian markets, the officials said.