The new Toyota model is expected to be a re-badged version of the Maruti Suzuki Baleno premium hatchback, which wil be the first car resulting from the Toyota-Suzuki agreement.
Toyota and Suzuki had previously concluded discussions towards a business partnership in February 2017. The result of this discussion was the announcement of a mutual supply of vehicles for the Indian market and others around the world. Sources close to the Japanese car manufacturing company have revealed that the first car to come out of this alliance will be a premium hatchback which will be launched in March 2019.
We had reported earlier that Toyota will re-badge the Suzuki Baleno and Vitara Brezza
A number of topic were addressed at the meetings, such as, Toyota will produce models developed by Suzuki for sale in India under both brand networks. The car models could include the Vitara Brezza compact SUV and the Baleno premium hatchback, both donning the Toyota badge. Suzuki is in the development stage for a compact ultra high-efficiency powertrain where Toyota and Denso corporation will provide technological support. Other aspects like supply of models by both brands to some markets around the world and employment of both their networks for selling the products, and advanced cooperation in the logistics and service departments were also discussed.
The companies production line would be based in India for the Indian market and other targeted markets. Following the philosophy of ‘Make In India,’ the venture would be a boost for the Indian automotive industry, not in just building of employment rates but also prestige for the Indian people. Due to this we can expect to have a lot more localisation in production, which should make products a little more affordable too.
Toyota president Akio Toyoda stated that Suzuki were the pioneers for Japanese cars in India. Together they would like to enhance the future society of mobility and to make ‘Make in India’ cars which are cherished in Africa and other countries around the world. Breaking from convention, Toyota have chosen a path that is created by one’s own hands. He added that Suzuki have the spirit of ‘Let do it’ and with this joint venture he would like to learn the ‘lets do it’ spirit.
Suzuki president Osamu Suzuki said “Under the leadership of President Akio Toyoda, Toyota was enthusiastic throughout our discussions regarding partnership sought by Suzuki, which was concerned about the development of advanced technologies. I want to express my heartfelt appreciation.”
Suzuki also said that Toyota arranged a series of intensive and meaningful discussions, and that they would be receiving much needed support for their powertrain, which is under development. He hoped that this venture would contribute to the success of both companies not just in India but in the global market too.
Story : Zal Cursetji
