Suzuki to export India-made EVs to Japan from 2025

Suzuki, the renowned Japanese automaker, has set its sights on an electrifying endeavor. The company's plan, as reported, is to initiate the export of electric vehicles (EVs) manufactured in India to their home turf, Japan, commencing in 2025.

A significant shift from the norm, Suzuki is breaking with the tradition of Japanese automakers who usually develop their EV technologies domestically.

The electric vehicles, set to make their debut, will be priced at approximately $20,000 and will be produced by Maruti Suzuki, Suzuki's Indian subsidiary. The company will establish a new EV production line in Gujarat, with production scheduled to commence in the fall of 2024.

Suzuki's European and Toyota Ventures

Beyond its homecoming in Japan, Suzuki has set its sights on the European market. The company plans to market these EVs under its own brand. Additionally, there's a promising partnership with Toyota Motor, which would involve supplying EVs for sale under the Toyota brand.

Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Limited said:

"The Jimny has strengthened Maruti Suzuki’s presence in the SUV segment. This lifestyle SUV has especially appealed to customers who enjoy off-roading experience through tough terrains. The India-manufactured Jimny 5-Door in our export portfolio will surely create excitement among our overseas customers. Aligning with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, our company now exports an extensive range of 17 vehicles across segments. We remain committed in our efforts to sustain leadership in export of India-manufactured passenger vehicles."

Incorporating Indian Know-How in Japanese Kei Car Production

With India serving as a foundation for EV production, Suzuki intends to harness the expertise gained in the Indian market to begin producing electric kei cars domestically in Japan, starting from 2026.

Expanding Export Horizons: The Jimny 5-Door

In a separate venture, Maruti Suzuki has initiated the export of the Jimny 5-Door to Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. This robust off-roader, the Jimny 5-Door, is exclusively manufactured in India. Since its introduction in November 2020, Maruti Suzuki's 3-door Jimny for exports in Latin America and Africa has seen success in strengthening the company's presence in the SUV segment.

Relevant and latest facts:

• The global EV market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 28.8% from 2022 to 2030, reaching $823.75 billion by 2030.

• India is one of the fastest-growing EV markets in the world, with sales expected to reach 10 million units by 2030.

• Japanese automakers are facing increasing competition from Chinese and Korean EV makers.

• Suzuki is one of the leading automakers in India, with a market share of over 40%.

Conclusion:

Suzuki's decision to export India-made EVs to Japan and Europe is a significant development. It shows that the company is confident in its ability to produce high-quality EVs at a competitive cost in India. This move is also likely to boost the growth of the Indian EV industry.