Suzuki To Offer Toyota-Based Hybrids In Europe Thanks To New Global Agreement

Toyota and Suzuki announced the details of their new global partnership, which will see the two companies working together on hybrids and compact vehicles on a global scale.

The two Japanese car manufacturers, which signed a memorandum of understanding back in 2017 to explore a collaboration, have now agreed on the specifics of their deal: Toyota will contribute with its expertise in electrification technologies, while Suzuki will share its “strength in technologies for compact vehicles”.

More specifically, Toyota will produce a pair of new Suzuki hybrids for the European market, which will be based on the of the RAV4 and Corolla Wagon platforms, as well as supply its hybrid powertrain technology to Suzuki.

In return, Toyota will get to use Suzuki’s latest engines, developed for use in compact and small cars, in its European model range. The engines will be produced at Toyota’s factory in Poland.

The two car makers will also jointly develop hybrid models specifically for the Indian market, with Suzuki to supply Toyota with two compact models based on the local Ciaz and Ertiga, as well as four other models for the African market.

“Through our new agreement, we look forward to the wider use of hybrid technologies, not only in India and Europe, but around the world”, said Toyota President Akio Toyoda. “At the same time, we believe that the expansion of our business partnership with Suzuki ―from the mutual supply of vehicles and powertrains to the domains of development and production― will help give us the competitive edge we will need to survive this once-in-a-century period of profound transformation.”

On his part, Suzuki Chairman Osamu Suzuki commented: “It is my pleasure to be able to make this announcement today regarding the status of partnership on a global basis, including Europe and Africa. In addition, we appreciate the kind offer from Toyota to let us make use of their hybrid technology. We will continue our utmost efforts.”