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Following an agreement signed in 2017, Suzuki and Toyota have announced plans for a new technical partnership agreement that will see the Japanese companies sharing technology. The new agreement covers joint operations globally, with most of the focus on the European and Indian market.
In Europe, Toyota will supply Suzuki with two hybrid vehicles based on the RAV4 and Corolla Estate. No set date has been confirmed for when these two vehicles will enter production. New combustion engines, developed by Suzuki for use in compact cars, will be adopted by Toyota and manufactured at Toyota's Motor Manufacturing plant in Poland.
Toyota is to begin locally procuring batteries, engines and HEV systems in India for use in that market. It will also jointly develop a C-segment MPV with Suzuki there. Production of Suzuki's Vitara Brezza compact SUV will begin at Toyota's Kirloskar plant in 2022.
Suzuki is to supply Toyota with its compact vehicle platforms that currently underpin the Ciaz and Ertiga for the Indian market. The company will also provide Toyota with its Indian-produced vehicles that include the Baleno, Vitara Brezza, Ciaz and Ertiga, for sale in Africa.
Speaking about the announcement, Toyota President Akio Toyoda said: "When it comes to vehicle electrification, which is expected to make further inroads, hybrid technologies are seen as playing a huge role in many markets, as from before. Widespread acceptance is necessary for electrified vehicles to be able to contribute to Earth's environment. Through our new agreement, we look forward to the wider use of hybrid technologies, not only in India and Europe, but around the world. 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. We intend to strengthen the competitiveness of both our companies by applying our strong points and learning from each other."
Suzuki Chairman Osamu Suzuki said: "At the time we announced our scope of cooperation in May last year, I spoke that we will strive for success globally. I have seen progress in the partnership since then, and 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."