To further formalize the MOU towards a partnership in February last year, and revealing plans to share models in India earlier this March, Toyota Motor Corporation and Suzuki Motor Corporation announced more details of their partnership today.
Related: Toyota And Suzuki Are Considering A Technology Partnership
To begin with, Toyota will build Suzuki cars at its plant and will be put on sale through each of their networks. This arrangement will suit both sides as Toyota’s line that produces the Etios, Liva, Yaris, Corolla Altis, and Camry Hybrid is utilized to only about 30% of its 2,10,000 production capacity, whereas Maruti’s plants are running full.
The other big announcement is that Suzuki will be developing what they are terming as an ‘ultra-high-efficiency’ powertrain, with technological support from Toyota and Denso Corporation. The engine will belong to a new family and will be available in both petrol and hybrid setup, and, in a company statement, Suzuki chairman Osamu Suzuki described it as vital to Suzuki.
The release also stated that the Suzuki models would be exported from India to Africa and other markets and will be sold through both Toyota’s and Suzuki respective outlets, thus extending the cross-sharing arrangement globally.
Related: Toyota and Suzuki to Cross-Badge Vehicles in India
Earlier in March, Suzuki and Toyota entered into an agreement in India for a mutual supply of hybrid and other vehicles. As per the agreement, Suzuki will supply the Baleno and Vitara models to Toyota, while Toyota will supply the Corolla model to Suzuki.
It will sure be interesting to see how Toyota & Suzuki collaboration will work out for other markets including Pakistan.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
