KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Suzuki cars to be exported from India & Japan to Thailand
- Suzuki Thailand plant to shut by the end of 2025
- Renewed focus on EVs and carbon neutrality
In a major development, Suzuki plans to shut down manufacturing in Thailand by the end of 2025 as a result of dipping sales numbers. This also has to do with the electrification plans of the brand in line with Thailand's EV plans. But, to cater to the market, India and Japan will be exporting vehicles to Thailand for continued operations. Let's look at what this means for the buyers and the brand, but before that, make sure to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group, community of petroheads to never miss out on any latest automotive update.
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Suzuki Cars To Be Exported From India To Thailand After It Plans To Cease Production
Suzuki Motor (Thailand) has reported a decline in sales within the Thai market, with 10,807 cars sold domestically and 1,272 units exported in FY2023. The Japanese automaker attributes this decision to its commitment to fostering carbon neutrality and global electrification efforts. The cumulative effect of these factors led to the brand's decision to shut down manufacturing. After 2025, the demand will be supplied by importing cars from India and Japan.
Interestingly, in response to the Eco Car project initiated by the Thai government in 2007, Suzuki pursued participation and established Suzuki Motor Thailand in 2011. Commencing production in March 2012, the facility has an annual output of approximately 60,000 units, encompassing both domestic sales and exports. Suzuki's production lineup in Thailand includes the Swift and Celerio hatchbacks, along with the Ciaz sedan, supplemented by imported models like the XL7 hybrid, Ertiga Smart Hybrid, Jimny, and other Suzuki cars.
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However, Suzuki affirms its dedication to serving the needs of Thai customers through continued sales and aftersales support for the Suzuki cars. To align with the Thai government's objectives of achieving carbon neutrality, the company plans to introduce electrified models, including hybrids, while also sourcing Completely Built-Up (CBU) units from ASEAN-based plants as well as those in Japan and India.
Verdict
While this is a strategic move by the brand to streamline with the country's demand and future goals, this will be a big boost to the Indian manufacturing space. Not only will it provide a big boost to the space, it will foster a positive sense of trust and capabilities of the sector, ultimately attracting more players in the space.
