MUMBAI, Jun 25 (NNN-PTI) – Indian subsidiaries of two Japanese auto companies, Suzuki and Toyota, will commence production of a new hybrid sports utility vehicle (SUV) model in Aug, a filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange said yesterday.
The SUV developed by Suzuki, will be produced at Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s (TKM) manufacturing facility in Bidadi, 34 km south-west of Bengaluru.
In 2017, the two Japanese companies entered into a business alliance, to bring together Toyota’s strength in electrification technologies and Suzuki’s competence in compact vehicles.
The powertrains of the new model, to be on sale in India, will be equipped with a mild hybrid developed by Suzuki and a strong hybrid developed by Toyota, the filing said.
“Production of the new SUV at TKM is a project that can contribute to the growth of India through providing eco-friendly mobility needed by customers,” said Suzuki President, Toshihiro Suzuki, in the filing.
“The automotive industry is facing various challenges, such as electrification and carbon neutrality. By leveraging the respective strengths of Toyota and Suzuki, to provide Indian customers with a variety of options, we hope to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions,” said Toyota President, Akio Toyoda.
Indian subsidiaries, Maruti Suzuki and TKM will market the new hybrid SUV model in India, under their respective brands and would also export it outside India, including Africa, according to the filing.– NNN-PTI
