“Suzuki and Toyota: Forging a Stronger Alliance in the Electric Vehicle Revolution”

A battery electric vehicle (BEV) SUV developed by Suzuki will be added to Toyota’s electric vehicle lineup, catering to the global market. This new model is expected to be produced at the Suzuki Motor Gujarat plant in India from the spring of 2025.

The history of Suzuki and Toyota traces back to the Enshu region in western Shizuoka Prefecture, and both companies underwent a transformative shift from textile machinery manufacturing to the automotive business. The collaboration between the two enterprises was formally established in 2016, led by Mr. Osamu Suzuki (currently Senior Advisor) and Mr. Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota. Since then, Suzuki and Toyota have worked together in various areas, including production, supply, and distribution of electric vehicles, with a shared goal of delivering comfort and enjoyable driving experiences. Through this linkage, their collaborative models have swiftly expanded into key markets such as Japan, India, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

The development of the BEV SUV marks the first step in the original equipment manufacturing (OEM) collaboration between the two companies. This all-electric SUV will soon be introduced globally, offering a fresh choice in the rapidly growing SUV segment. In doing so, Suzuki and Toyota also make a significant contribution to the mission of carbon neutrality.

The new BEV is designed with exceptional performance attributes of an SUV, including powerful acceleration and a spacious interior. It is also equipped with a four-wheel-drive system, delivering superior performance on challenging roads.

The BEV platform and powertrain applied to this model are the result of a joint effort between Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu Motor Corporation, leveraging the technological advantages and strengths of each enterprise.

Statement from Suzuki’s Chairman, Mr. Toshihiro Suzuki: “Suzuki will provide its first BEV to Toyota. I am deeply honored that our bilateral collaboration is becoming increasingly solid. Apart from our respective directions, we are also partners in addressing societal issues, particularly in realizing carbon neutrality through a multifaceted approach.”

Toyota’s Chairman, Mr. Koji Sato, shared: “With the jointly developed BEV platform and powertrain, we have taken a significant step forward in our electric vehicle collaboration. This brings a diverse range of environmentally friendly vehicle options, meeting the needs of global customers and contributing to a carbon-neutral society. We aim to learn from and build on each other’s strengths, setting the stage for our joint endeavors in the future.”

TH (Tuoitrethudo)