The announcement that two of the largest carmakers, Toyota and Suzuki (Maruti Suzuki in India), were entering a partnership was exciting to say the least. But that was two years ago, and since then the market’s waited patiently to hear more on how this would affect the two very popular brands — and their product portfolios. And if you were keen to know more about it, here’s what the companies have made official just now.
We’ve known that cars will be shared between the two brands. In India, Maruti Suzuki will supply the Ciaz and Ertiga to Toyota. The two companies will also work together in order to develop a Toyota C-segment MPV, which in turn will also be supplied to Maruti Suzuki. Production of the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza will begin at the Toyota Kirloskar Motor plant from 2022 onwards. Toyota in return will supply THS (Toyota Hybrid System) to Suzuki. Toyota will also enable the use of the technology in India with the help of ‘local procurement of Hybrid Electric Vehicle systems, engines, and batteries.
On a global level also, there will be a sharing of THS. In Europe, Suzuki will benefit from the electrified versions of RAV4 and Corolla Estate. Toyota will also use Suzuki engines for its compact vehicles. Going southwards, in Africa, Suzuki cars like the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Vitara Brezza, Ciaz, and Ertiga (all made in India) will be supplied to Toyota.
President for Toyota, Akio Toyoda said, “When it comes to vehicle electrification, which is expected to make further inroads, hybrid technologies are seen as playing a huge role in many markets, as from before. Widespread acceptance is necessary for electrified vehicles to be able to contribute to Earth’s environment. Through our new agreement, we look forward to the wider use of hybrid technologies, not only in India and Europe, but around the world. At the same time, we believe that the expansion of our business partnership with Suzuki—from the mutual supply of vehicles and powertrains to the domains of development and production—will help give us the competitive edge we will need to survive this once-in-a-century period of profound transformation. We intend to strengthen the competitiveness of both our companies by applying our strong points and learning from each other.”
Chairman for Suzuki, Osamu Suzuki said, “At the time we announced our scope of cooperation in May last year, I spoke that we will strive for success globally. I have seen progress in the partnership since then, and it is my pleasure to be able to make this announcement today regarding the status of partnership on a global basis, including Europe and Africa. In addition, we appreciate the kind offer from Toyota to let us make use of their hybrid technology. We will continue our utmost efforts.”
