Suzuki Motor Corporation announced an exciting development in its collaboration with Toyota Corporation: the upcoming supply of a brand-new battery electric vehicle (BEV) SUV model. This innovative vehicle is set to be manufactured at Suzuki Motor Gujarat, with production expected to begin in early 2025. Maruti Suzuki India, which is largely owned by Suzuki with a 58% stake, plans to launch the same model next year, underscoring the significance of this partnership.

Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “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.” He emphasized that while both companies remain competitors, they are committed to deepening their collaboration to tackle social issues, including the pursuit of a carbon-neutral society through a multi-pathway approach.

Toyota President Koji Sato echoed these sentiments, highlighting the advantages of leveraging the jointly developed BEV unit and platform. He remarked, “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.”

The BEV unit and platform for this model were developed collaboratively by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu Motor Corporation, drawing on the strengths of each company. Interestingly, both Suzuki and Toyota share a common history rooted in Enshu, located in the western part of Shizuoka Prefecture, where they transitioned from the loom industry to automotive manufacturing. Their exploration of business partnerships began in 2016, leading to this significant new venture.