Osamu Suzuki, the former chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation and a transformative leader in the global automotive industry, passed away on December 25 at the age of 94 due to lymphoma. Born in Gero, Japan, in 1930, he joined Suzuki Motor in 1958 after marrying into the company’s founding family and adopting the surname Suzuki.
Over a career spanning decades, Suzuki’s innovative leadership helped establish the company as a global leader in small cars and motorcycles. His tenure included two terms as president, making him the longest-serving head of a global automaker. He spearheaded strategic partnerships with General Motors and Volkswagen to enhance Suzuki’s presence in North America and Europe.
One of his most groundbreaking achievements was the establishment of Maruti Udyog in India in 1982 through a partnership with the Indian government. This venture launched the Maruti 800, a car that revolutionised transportation for India’s middle class and became a symbol of economic progress.
Suzuki’s career was not without challenges. He resigned as CEO in 2016 following a fuel economy testing scandal in Japan but continued to contribute to the company as an advisor.
Tributes have poured in from industry leaders and global figures, acknowledging Suzuki’s contributions to the automotive world and his instrumental role in shaping India’s automotive industry. His vision and determination left an indelible mark, and his legacy lives on in millions of vehicles on roads worldwide.
Osamu Suzuki is survived by his wife, Shoko, and their three children. His life’s work and transformative impact will be remembered as a cornerstone of Suzuki Motor Corporation’s enduring success.
GENERAL | Autoliv and JMC Collaborate to Drive Innovation in Global Automotive Safety
