Fri Dec 27 14:15:46 UTC 2024: ## Suzuki Motor Corp Chairman Osamu Suzuki Passes Away at 94
**Hamamatsu, Japan** – Osamu Suzuki, the long-serving chairman of Suzuki Motor Corp and one of the auto industry’s most influential figures, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 94. The cause of death was lymphoma.
Suzuki, who led the company for decades, oversaw its remarkable global expansion, culminating in its current position as India’s largest automaker. His leadership included forging key partnerships with General Motors, Volkswagen, and, notably, a capital alliance with Toyota in 2019. Known for his decisive and independent approach, Suzuki famously stated, “If I were to listen to everybody, it would make things too slow. Never stop, or else you lose.”
While he stepped down as president in 2015, handing the reins to his son Toshihiro Suzuki, he remained chairman and CEO until relinquishing the CEO title following a fuel-economy testing scandal. He accepted full responsibility for the incident, apologizing publicly and accepting a 40% pay cut.
Suzuki’s journey was far from conventional. Born Osamu Matsuda, the fourth son of a farming family, he initially pursued a career in law and banking. His life took a turn after marrying Shoko Suzuki, granddaughter of the company founder, Michio Suzuki. Adopting his wife’s surname, he joined the company in 1958, transforming it into a global automotive giant.
His most significant achievement is widely considered the joint venture with the Indian government, which led to the creation of the iconic Maruti 800. This partnership, established after Suzuki discovered a newspaper article about India’s search for an automotive partner, secured a 26% stake in Maruti Udyog for Suzuki Motor Corp.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, Suzuki Motor Corp sold approximately 3.2 million vehicles globally, more than half of which were sold in India. The company also ranks among the world’s top motorcycle manufacturers, selling around 1.9 million units during the same period. Osamu Suzuki’s legacy extends beyond impressive sales figures; it’s a testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering determination.
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