Osamu Suzuki, the former chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation and a pivotal figure in India’s automotive industry, passed away on 25th December 2024 at the age of 94. Suzuki’s decision to partner with Maruti Udyog in the 1980s laid the foundation for India’s modern automotive landscape. He succumbed to malignant lymphoma as announced by Suzuki Motor Corporation.
Born on 30th January 1930 in Gero City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, Suzuki joined Suzuki Motor in 1958 and rose to become its president in 1978. Among his notable achievements was his foresight in recognising India’s potential as a burgeoning automobile market. In 1982, Suzuki Motor entered into a partnership with the Indian government to establish Maruti Udyog, a bold move that involved investing a year’s worth of Suzuki’s earnings. This collaboration led to the launch of the Maruti 800 in 1983 which quickly became an iconic vehicle transforming car ownership in India.
Suzuki’s contributions extended beyond introducing vehicles. His vision for equality in the workplace resulted in open-plan offices and shared facilities for executives and assembly-line workers alike. Today, Maruti Suzuki commands approximately 40% of India’s passenger vehicle market, underscoring the enduring impact of his decisions.
Osamu Suzuki’s tenure at Suzuki Motor was marked by his ability to navigate complex challenges. He steered the company through emissions regulations in the 1970s by forging an alliance with Toyota to supply engines. Later, he expanded Suzuki’s global footprint through partnerships with General Motors and Volkswagen, although the latter ended acrimoniously in 2015. His pragmatic leadership and frugality, coupled with a relentless drive for innovation, became hallmarks of his career.
His contributions to India’s growth were recognised with the Padma Bhushan in 2007, underscoring his role in fostering industrial collaboration between India and Japan. Suzuki’s legacy also includes his pivotal role in transforming Suzuki Motor into a global brand, particularly in small and affordable vehicles.
Osamu Suzuki stepped down as CEO in 2015 but remained active as a senior advisor until his passing.