Suzuki Reveals Decade-Long Technology Strategy for Energy Efficiency

Suzuki Motor Corporation announced a ten-year technology strategy focused on minimizing energy consumption from manufacturing to recycling. The plan includes evolving the HEARTECT platform, developing energy-efficient electric vehicles, and transitioning to a circular economy to achieve carbon neutrality and enhance customer value.

Suzuki Motor Corporation, the principal shareholder of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, unveiled a comprehensive ten-year technology strategy aimed at curtailing energy consumption across its vehicle lifecycle. This announcement was made public via a filing on Thursday.

The strategy encompasses the entire process from manufacturing to recycling, with an eye on achieving carbon neutrality while ensuring the joy of transportation worldwide. Central to this vision is the enhancement of the lightweight and safety-oriented 'HEARTECT' platform, coupled with advanced weight reduction technologies.

Suzuki plans to introduce electric vehicles (EVs) designed to be highly energy-efficient, by integrating components exemplifying the philosophy of 'Sho-Sho-Kei-Tan-Bi,' which translates to smaller, fewer, lighter, and shorter. This includes small, efficient electric units and lightweight batteries.

In a significant shift, the company is transitioning from a linear economic model to a circular economy approach. Previously, their linear model led to substantial energy consumption and environmental degradation. The new approach focuses on resource conservation through product designs that facilitate easy disassembly for recycling and reuse.

Suzuki is also investing in lean-battery electric and hybrid vehicles tailored to different regions and usage conditions, aiming to offer the most energy-efficient electric vehicles possible. Additionally, development efforts will target high-efficiency engines, advanced driver assistance systems, and designs that promote recyclability and disassembly to further reduce environmental impact.

The overarching philosophy of 'Sho-Sho-Kei-Tan-Bi' underscores Suzuki's commitment to creating customer value through innovative, eco-friendly designs that minimize resource usage. This comprehensive strategy exemplifies Suzuki's forward-thinking approach to sustainability and energy efficiency.

(With inputs from agencies.)