Suzuki and Toyota Strengthen Partnership with New Electric SUV Production for Global Markets!

Toyota and Suzuki, longstanding partners in global automotive manufacturing, have announced a significant expansion of their alliance to include the production of a fully battery-electric vehicle (BEV). Beginning in spring 2025, Suzuki’s Gujarat plant in India will manufacture the new electric SUV exclusively for Toyota, marking a pivotal step in the companies’ joint original equipment manufacturer (OEM) ventures and their commitment to sustainable mobility goals.

The forthcoming electric SUV is set to feature exclusive BEV technology, a four-wheel-drive option, and an extended cruising range, addressing the growing global demand for electric SUVs. This model represents the combined expertise of Toyota, Suzuki, and Daihatsu, focusing on enhancing performance and delivering competitive BEV features. According to Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki, this initiative aligns seamlessly with the companies’ shared vision of achieving carbon neutrality while maintaining a competitive and collaborative relationship in the automotive industry.

“This partnership is a testament to our mutual commitment to innovation and sustainability,” said Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki. “By leveraging our collective strengths in manufacturing and technology development, we are poised to deliver a superior electric SUV that meets the evolving needs of consumers worldwide.”

The collaboration between Toyota and Suzuki, which began in 2016, has seen the rebadging of popular models like the Baleno and Brezza under Toyota’s brand in India, resulting in increased sales and market presence for both companies. Building on this successful alliance, the development of the BEV SUV model is designed for international markets, with broad global distribution anticipated to meet the surging demand for sustainable vehicles.

Koji Sato, President of Toyota, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion: “The combined development of BEV technology positions both Toyota and Suzuki as leaders in eco-friendly automotive innovation. Our partnership allows us to offer consumers a wider range of carbon-neutral vehicle options, reinforcing our commitment to a sustainable future.”

The new electric SUV is expected to incorporate advanced features such as perimetric grinding technology and CNC Pick-N-Place software, ensuring high precision and efficiency in manufacturing. These technological advancements will not only enhance the vehicle’s performance but also contribute to reducing production costs and improving overall quality.

By sharing strengths in manufacturing and product development, Toyota and Suzuki aim to provide a balanced approach to innovation, fostering healthy competition while promoting mutual growth. This strategic move is set to enhance both companies’ capabilities in the electric vehicle market, driving forward their shared goals of sustainability and technological excellence.

The introduction of the BEV SUV underscores Toyota and Suzuki’s dedication to meeting global environmental standards and responding to the increasing consumer demand for electric vehicles. As part of their ongoing efforts to support the Make in India initiative, the partnership leverages India’s robust manufacturing infrastructure to produce high-quality electric vehicles that cater to both domestic and international markets.