As electrification in the automotive industry accelerates, Suzuki and Toyota have taken a new step by deepening their collaboration in the field of electric vehicles (EVs). This announcement, in which Suzuki will supply Toyota with an SUV-type battery EV (BEV) that it is developing on an OEM basis, has attracted considerable attention both inside and outside the industry as a strategic partnership that leverages the strengths of both companies.
Historical ties and new challenges
Suzuki and Toyota both originated in western Shizuoka Prefecture and share a history of evolving over time, from weaving machine manufacturing to the automotive industry. Since beginning discussions about a business alliance in 2016, the two companies have built a cooperative relationship in a variety of fields, including production, OEM supply, and electrification. This OEM supply of BEVs further deepens that collaborative relationship and demonstrates the strong commitment of both companies to the future.
Suzuki to supply its first BEV to Toyota globally
For Suzuki, this BEV marks its first global rollout and is a memorable model. Supplying it to countries around the world through Toyota’s sales network will significantly accelerate Suzuki’s electrification strategy.
Jointly developed BEV unit and platform
The BEV unit and platform used in this BEV were jointly developed by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. By combining the technological capabilities and know-how of each company, high-performance and efficient electrification technology has been achieved.
A new option for the SUV market
In a market where SUVs are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, increasing the number of BEV options will be a major benefit for users. The new BEV being developed by Suzuki combines sufficient driving range with a comfortable interior space, and also offers the powerful driving and off-road capabilities you expect from an SUV. Furthermore, it will also be available with a 4WD system, making it a model that can meet a variety of needs.
Towards a carbon-neutral society
Through this collaboration, Suzuki and Toyota aim to contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society. The widespread adoption of BEVs will not only significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions, but is also essential for realizing a sustainable society.
Comments from both presidents
Suzuki President Toshihiro Suzuki said, “I am very pleased that the collaborative relationship between our two companies has deepened further. Toyota and I will continue to be competitors who strive to improve each other, while deepening our collaboration to solve social issues, such as realizing a carbon-neutral society through multiple pathways.”
Toyota President Koji Sato commented, “We will take a new step in our collaboration in the field of electrified vehicles, and offer customers around the world a variety of options that contribute to a carbon-neutral society. Going forward, we will continue to work hard together, learning from each other’s strengths and competing with each other, based on the multi-pathway approach.”
Future outlook
This collaboration will mark an important milestone in Suzuki and Toyota’s electrification strategies, and the two companies are expected to continue leveraging each other’s strengths to accelerate the development and adoption of electrification technologies.
Suzuki news release
https://www.suzuki.co.jp/release/d/2024/1030
Toyota News Release
