Foundation: 1909
Headquarters: Hamamatsu, Shizuoka
Chairman: Osamu Suzuki
Executive Summary: Suzuki Motor Corporation is a Japanese multinational company known for manufacturing automobiles, motorcycles, ATVs, outboard marine engines, wheelchairs, and various internal combustion engines. Founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki as Suzuki Loom Works, it transitioned into the motor vehicle industry, getting listed on the Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya stock exchanges by 1949. In 1952, Suzuki introduced its first motor vehicle product, the Power Free, a 36cc auxiliary bicycle engine.
By 1954, the company officially rebranded to “Suzuki Motor Co.” The next year, it launched the Suzulight 360cc, contributing significantly to Japan’s mini-vehicle market. The iconic “S” logo was adopted in 1958.
From 1970 to 2000, Suzuki expanded into medical equipment, generators, and general-purpose engines. Overseas car production began in 1970 with the Jimmy 4×4 in Pakistan. The company also dominated the World Motorcross Grand Prix 125, securing its 10th consecutive championship in 1979.
In 1997, all Suzuki plants in Japan received ISO9002 quality-assurance certification, and the company won an award at the International Marine Trades Exhibit and Convention for innovation. More recently, in 2020, Suzuki developed the world’s first microplastic collecting device for outboard motors.
Today, Suzuki is regarded as one of the top automobile manufacturers globally, with an annual revenue in the range of US$25 billion.