Solar and other alternative technology alliances

A a brief reminder of some of the Japanese tie-ups in this industry:

Toyota is friendly with Panasonic (formerly Matsushita, of course). When Panasonic completes its alliance with Sanyo, Japan's leading solar power experts, Toyota will move a little closer to its dream of an all-solar car.

Nissan, on the other hand, has made its battery technology alliance with NEC, which forms part of the giant Sumitomo keiretsu (integrated network of companies).

Honda has tied up with Yuasa for its Li-Ion technology.