In a gesture that aims to speed up the pace of advances in the domain of hybrid-vehicle technologies (and so it can burnish its image as a good corporate citizen), Toyota has announced it will provide competitors with free access to its patents related to electric mobility.

And there are lot of those patents – some 24,000 in all. Most of them have to do with hybrid technologies developed over the years by the Japanese manufacturer.

And for competitors wanting to use them, it all comes free!

Toyota will exact a price for the technical support it provides to those who need it. We’re guessing several companies may take them up on the offer, and it may lead to the creation of more vehicles in the hybrid-car segment.

"Ultimately, by granting royalty-free patents and providing technical support on its vehicle electrification systems. Toyota aims to help further promote the widespread use of electrified vehicles, and in so doing, help governments, automakers, and society at large accomplish goals related to climate change."

- Toyota statement

The decision by Toyota is not, without precedent. Recall that Tesla took the same step not that long ago.

In both cases, whatever the motivations behind the moves, they are noteworthy decisions that could help speed up advances in the domain. What’s not to like?