Suzuki and Toyota Deepen Electrified Vehicle Collaboration

Shizuoka, Japan- Suzuki Motor Corporation (Suzuki) and Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) have decided to further strengthen collaboration in the supply of a battery EV (BEV) SUV model developed by Suzuki to Toyota. This new model is scheduled to be manufactured at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India from the spring of 2025.

Both Suzuki and Toyota originated in Enshu, Shizuoka Prefecture, transitioning from loom manufacturing to the automotive industry. Since 2016, Suzuki's Chairman Osamu Suzuki and Toyota's President Akio Toyoda have explored business partnerships, fostering collaboration aimed at enhancing mobility and driving enjoyment. Their partnership spans various areas, including vehicle production, mutual supply, and the promotion of electrified vehicles, leading to the launch of collaborative models across Japan, India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

This new development marks the first battery electric vehicle (BEV) collaboration between Suzuki and Toyota, set for a global launch to meet the growing demand in the SUV market. Designed exclusively as a BEV, the nimble SUV boasts impressive driving characteristics, a comfortable cabin, and an ample cruising range. It also offers a 4WD system for enhanced performance on rough terrain. The BEV unit and platform were jointly developed by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu, leveraging the strengths of each company to advance their commitment to a carbon-neutral society.

Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki, Suzuki President, said, "Suzuki will supply our first BEV to Toyota globally. I am grateful that the collaboration between the two companies has further deepened in this way. While continuing to be competitors, we will deepen our collaborations toward solving social issues, including the realization of a carbon-neutral society through a multi-pathway approach."

Mr. Koji Sato, Toyota President, said, "By leveraging the BEV unit and platform that we jointly developed, we will take a new step in our collaboration in the field of electrified vehicles. This will allow us to deliver various choices that contribute to a carbon-neutral society to customers worldwide. We would like to learn from each other's strengths, compete, and further joint efforts based on a multi-pathway approach."

You must be logged in to respond.