After 43 years, the tide turns: India’s Suzuki is heading to Japan

The world-famous Suzuki cars originate from Japan. Founded in 1909 in the coastal city of Hamamatsu on the main island of Honshu, Suzuki Motor Corporation came to India to manufacture cars in 1981.

In collaboration with Maruti Udyog Limited, the Japanese company has been producing ‘Maruti Suzuki’ cars in the top South Asian country. After nearly 43 years, the “tide has turned.” Where Japan’s economy is significantly driven by car production and export, they are now importing ‘Suzuki’ cars made in India to their own country.

On Wednesday, Japanese media outlet Nippon.com reported that Maruti Suzuki India’s Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) ‘Fronx’ is quite popular in India and worldwide. The model available in Japan is suitable for the country’s snow-covered roads.

This four-wheeler model is exclusively available in the Japanese market. The tires and fuel system are specially designed for comfortable travel. Additionally, the report mentions that the car can easily be maneuvered through narrow alleys and parked in tight spaces.

In August, citing Suzuki, Indian media outlet The Economic Times reported that the first shipment of 1,600 ‘Fronx’ cars had left Gujarat port for Japan. In 1982, the first production of Maruti-Suzuki began in collaboration with Japan’s Suzuki in Gurugram, Haryana.

In this joint venture, Suzuki held a 26% share, with the majority held by the Indian government. However, over time, the Japanese company gradually acquired more shares. By 2007, Suzuki Motor Corporation had bought all the shares.