NEW DELHI: Osamu Suzuki, chairman of Suzuki Motor Corp (SMC), passed away from lymphoma on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, the company announced in a statement on Friday. He was 94. Osamu’s contributions to India’s automotive industry were remarkable. It was under his leadership Suzuki partnered with Maruti Udyog Limited in 1981 to launch iconic Maruti Suzuki 800, a car that revolutionised the Indian market. When Suzuki entered the market, annual car sales in the country were about 40,000 units. Today, India sells over 4 million cars annually, with Maruti Suzuki commanding a market share of over 40%. “His foresight and leadership were instrumental in the formation of Maruti Udyog,” Maruti Suzuki said in a statement.
R C Bhargava, chairman of Maruti Suzuki, praised Osamu’s vision, calling him a key figure behind India’s automotive transformation. “Without Osamu’s willingness to take risks, his deep love for India and his capabilities as a teacher, Indian automobile industry could not have become the powerhouse it is today,” Bhargava said.
He recalled Osamu’s visit to Delhi in July to attend his birthday, describing it as a deeply touching moment and their last meeting. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “He had a profound affection for India and his collaboration with Maruti revolutionised the Indian automobile market,” the PM said.
Osamu’s career was marked by resilience and innovation. In early 1970s, he steered Suzuki through a crisis by persuading Toyota to supply engines that met new emissions regulations. He forged partnerships with General Motors and Volkswagen, solidifying Suzuki’s global presence.
The story of Maruti Suzuki 800
It was under his leadership Suzuki partnered with Maruti Udyog in 1981 to launch iconic Maruti Suzuki 800, a car that revolutionised the Indian market
Rising through ranks
Osamu joined Suzuki in 1958 through his marriage to Shoko, the granddaughter of the company’s founder, Michio Suzuki. Rising within the ranks, he became president in 1978 and went on to serve as chairman and CEO for several decades