Promotion through products

Welfare vehicles (WITH series)

TOPICSSuzuki and Datatec start verification tests of monitoring and communication system for electric senior vehicles

Suzuki and Datatec Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Ota-ku Tokyo; Representative Director and President: Keiichiro Morishima; “Datatec”) started verification tests of a monitoring and communication system using an automotive IoT device in June 2023. The system is being developed to provide more peace of mind and safety to users of electric senior vehicles, motorized wheelchairs with a loop-shape steering handle,^*1 and their families, among others.
Through these verification tests, the two companies will increase their understanding of the functions and services required of electric senior vehicles and apply the findings to future product development.

About the verification tests

In these verification tests, the automotive IoT device SR-LPWA^*2 developed by Datatec will be installed on Suzuki’s electric senior vehicles to acquire position data and detect any falls during use. The position data acquired during the tests will be viewable by pre-registered family members using a monitoring app^*3 via a dedicated server. If a fall is detected, family members will be notified via e-mail, allowing them to monitor the electric senior vehicle’s condition in real time.

■System composition^*4 of verification test

• *1 Motorized wheelchairs with a loop-shape steering handle are mostly used as a means of daily transportation by seniors who find it difficult to go out by walking or riding a bicycle. The operating speed can be adjusted between 1 and 6 km per hour. A driver’s license is not required because motorized wheelchairs are regarded as pedestrian traffic under the Road Traffic Act.
• *2 SR = Safety Recorder; LPWA = Low Power Wide Area
• *3 An app to view position data and other information acquired by SR-LPWA on a smartphone
• *4 A system used in verification tests by family members of electric senior vehicle users, among others. It refers to the entire setup in which a dedicated server receives position data, fall detection data and other information acquired by SR-LPWA and connects it to the monitoring app.

• * The names of products and companies, etc. shown here are the trademarks or registered trademarks of each respective company.

TOPICSSuzuki starts trial operation of electric senior vehicles with Nijo-jo Castle

Suzuki conducted the trial operation of electric senior vehicles as a proposed means of transportation for visitors within the grounds of the former Imperial Villa Nijo-jo Castle (“Nijo-jo Castle”) from March 6 to 19, 2023.
Every year, more than 2 million people visit Nijo-jo Castle. It had long wished for people who find it difficult to walk for long periods of time to be able to fully enjoy the expansive castle grounds. Currently, Nijo-jo Castle provides a motor-assisted wheelchair lending service to such visitors. These wheelchairs, however, require the aid of a caregiver.
In this initiative, Suzuki explored the benefits of electric senior vehicles by conducting a trial operation of these vehicles as a new option in addition to Nijo-jo Castle’s existing wheelchairs.
Electric senior vehicles are motorized wheelchairs with a loop-shape steering handle. They are mostly used by seniors who find it difficult to go out by walking or riding a bicycle. Visitors to Nijo-jo Castle can get around site comfortably by riding electric senior vehicles on the gravel paths of the castle grounds.
Suzuki donated the electric senior vehicles used in the trial operation. The vehicles feature a special color scheme that complements the World Heritage Site Nijo-jo Castle’s rich history, culture and scenery.
Through the trial operation at Nijo-jo Castle, Suzuki will introduce its efforts to develop a diverse range of mobility and services from the customer’s perspective, paving the way for further growth with a view to expanding services to various locations.

Initiatives to solve community issues

●Participation in the Hamamatsu Automated Driving Yaramaika Project

●Support for mini-truck markets

Moving forward with educational support

Educational support activities

●Introduction of Suzuki’s Monozukuri to local students

For the purposes of cultivation of human resources and activation of research, we set up Suzuki Donated Courses at Shizuoka University and dispatch automotive engineering experts as university lecturers.

●Monozukuri Workshops

Support for manufacturing workshops of the Society of Automotive Engineering of Japan, Inc.

●Interactive manufacturing workshop for elementary school students

●Formula SAE Japan activities

Participation in and cooperation with the Lake Hamana Environmental Network

As part of environment education for employees and their families, Suzuki is actively participating in and cooperating with the Lake Hamana Environmental Network established in 2005.
The Lake Hamana Environmental Network receives entrustment from the Environmental Protection Bureau of Shizuoka Prefecture, and continues to actively conduct activities including an education program in relation to environmental conservation of Lake Hamana, a project that involves recycling eelgrass and sea lettuce, and transmission of local environment information. As of October 2023, 74 groups and bodies such as local civic groups, schools, nonprofit organizations, and various trade associations and public companies are registered in this network, serving as the “place for gathering” for the environmental conservation of Lake Hamana.
The Lake Hamana Environmental Network holds environmental events every year, which are open to participation by the general public. In FY2022, an interactive learning event to survey Lake Hamana’s natural environment was held. As part of the event, Suzuki introduced its outboard motor with a Micro-Plastic Collecting Device, and displayed micro-plastic samples collected during test runs.
Going forward, Suzuki will continue to participate in environmental education and conservation activities so that the rich natural environment of Lake Hamana, which is a brackish water lake and a precious asset for the local area, can be appreciated by as many people as possible through classroom lectures and hands-on experiences such as observation, cleanup activities, and farm work.

■ Interactive learning event to survey Lake Hamana’s natural environment (October 8, 2022)

JapanDomestic sales distributors

TOPICSSuzuki signs agreements with two Indian Institutes of Management
- Research in business diversification and new business development in India -

In order to further develop its Indian business, Suzuki Motor Corporation (Suzuki) has signed agreements with the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (hereinafter referred to as IIMA) and Kozhikode (hereinafter referred to as IIMK), respectively.
Since starting its operations in India in 1982, Suzuki has locally produced compact cars needed by Indian customers and progressed in line with the economic development. We believe that flexible business activities are needed in the recent years where we are globally facing urgent issues of environmental initiatives including carbon neutrality. Suzuki has signed agreements with the two Indian business schools to conduct research on such issues.
IIMA was established in 1961 and is India’s premier management school with a global reputation for excellence and leadership in business management research and education. IIMA and Suzuki will collaborate to conduct research on strategic business diversification, business portfolio restructuring, and new market entry strategies.
IIMK was founded in Kerala in 1996 and has strengths in corporate culture research and striving for global excellence in the field of higher education. IIMK and Suzuki will analyze Suzuki's 40-year history in India, clarify its strengths, and study the future direction of Suzuki’s business in the country, from a long-term perspective.
Since establishment of IIT Hyderabad (hereinafter referred to as IITH) in 2008, Suzuki has been conducting exchange of technical personnel with IITH. In addition to our relationship with IITH, we will also deepen exchanges with faculties and students of IIMA and IIMK.
Kinji Saito, Director and Senior Managing Officer of Suzuki, who attended the ceremony, said, “This year marks the 40th year anniversary of Suzuki’s operations in India. By concluding this agreement, we hope to utilize each other’s assets and contribute to the growth of everyone involved and the economic development of India.”
Suzuki will continue to strive to be a company that is needed by society, supporting the mobility of people around the world.

TOPICSSuzuki’s third Japan–India Institute for Manufacturing receives accreditation by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

IndiaMaruti Suzuki India Limited

Skill development projects

Maruti Suzuki India aligns with the government of India’s “Skill India” mission and has taken up a set of well-established skill development programs. The programs focus on enhancing the employability of the youth and provide “Earn While You Learn” opportunities to the students. In its endeavor to promote skill development, the company adopts a holistic approach to impart high-quality vocational training to enhance the capabilities of individuals and create a skilled and industry-ready workforce.
One of the key initiatives focuses on improving the infrastructure and capacity of trainers of existing Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). By enhancing the infrastructure, the company aims to provide a conducive learning environment for students, equipped with modern tools and equipment necessary for skill development. Additionally, it ensures that trainers at these ITIs receive specialized training to enhance their teaching skills and stay updated with the latest industry practices.
To further strengthen its engagement with students, the company has established the Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing (JIM). These institutes serve as a platform to provide comprehensive training, incorporating theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Recognizing the importance of skilled manpower in the automobile service trade, the company has also taken the initiative to establish Automotive Skill Enhancement Centers. These centers focus on improving the quality of manpower by providing specialized training in automotive servicing, maintenance, and repair. By upskilling individuals in this sector, the company contributes to the overall development of the automobile service industry.

●Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing

- Since inception, over 1,400 students have been trained at the Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing.

Japan-India Institute for Manufacturing (JIM) is a flagship skill development initiative of Maruti Suzuki India. Through JIM, students have the opportunity to learn advanced manufacturing techniques and efficient shop-floor management practices based on Japanese manufacturing principles. The JIM serves as a pathway for students to enter the manufacturing industry with the requisite skills and knowledge. It is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the governments of India and Japan in fostering skill development and promoting excellence in the manufacturing sector. The company has set up three JIMs-two in Gujarat and one in Haryana.

The soft skill curriculum has been developed by the Association for Overseas Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Partnerships (AOTS), Japan under the guidance of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan. The courses offered at JIM are recognized by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) and the institute is accredited by the METI, Japan.
These training courses offered are based on the Dual System of Training (DST), wherein students undergo paid On-Job-Training (OJT) at the industries to complement their theoretical learning offered at JIM. During the OJT, the students actively participate in real-world manufacturing processes gaining first-hand experience in a professional setting. The OJT allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge, understand industry practices, and develop crucial employability skills. Since its inception, over 1,400 students have been trained at JIMs. In FY2022, under the DST program, 434 students underwent OJT.
Also, in 2022, the third JIM at IACE (International Automobile Centre of Excellence), Gandhinagar Gujarat, received an accreditation certificate from METI Japan and affiliation from the Directorate General of Training (DGT), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) for four trades: Fitter, Painter (general), Electrician and Mechanic Motor Vehicle.

●Upgrading of Industrial Training Institutes (ITI)

- More than 7,000 ITI students trained at Maruti Suzuki India supported ITIs during FY2022, and around 1,500 ITI students trained at ASECs during FY2022.

Maruti Suzuki India undertakes the upgrading of the existing government ITIs in the country by setting up skill labs and providing specialized training to ITI trainers and students. Through the skill labs, industry-oriented training aids like Safety and MSBT Lab are provided to the ITIs to make the students ready for production lines. Over 7,000 students across 22 adopted ITIs were trained during the reporting period.
Additionally, the company has also set up Automobile Skill Enhancement Centres (ASECs) in 31 ITIs across India to impart specialized training on automobile service and maintenance-related trades such as Mechanic Motor Vehicle (MMV), Auto Body Repair (ABR) and Auto Body Paint (ABP).

●Industrial Training Institute, Tathagat

Among the skill development initiatives of Maruti Suzuki India, support to Tathagat ITI is a unique CSR initiative. The institute specifically targets local tribal youth and improves their employability skills and contributes to the socioeconomic development of the local community. ITI Tathagat is located at Darhia village, a remote and less developed area of Mirzapur district and aims to improve employability and empower the youth of underprivileged and economically less developed communities in the region. Maruti Suzuki India also provides training and employment opportunities for the students of the ITI. Also, the company supported building a hostel complex for the students and staff.

●Apprenticeship Programme

- More than 3,000 youths given apprenticeship opportunity at Maruti Suzuki India plants.

Through the Apprenticeship Programme for Industrial Training Institute (ITI) students, over 3,000 aspiring youth from various ITIs across 17 states were trained at Maruti Suzuki India’s plant. They have been given the opportunity to engage with Maruti Suzuki India experts and improve their employability skills by working on the shop floor.
The Apprenticeship Programme helps the trainees to understand the dynamics of the manufacturing industry, familiarize themselves with industry standards and practices, and cultivate a strong work ethic. Additionally, exposure to actual workplace scenarios enhances their problem-solving abilities, teamwork skills, and adaptability.

PakistanPak Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd.

●Kaizen & 5S management training session for university students and employees’ families

IndonesiaPT Suzuki Indomobil Motor

●Manufacturing plant tour for students

●Teaching factory activity for vocational schools

HungaryMagyar Suzuki Corporation Ltd.

●Collaboration with national and regional educational institutions

Magyar Suzuki Corporation attributes its competitiveness and success in Hungary to its rich and talented workforce. The company has a responsibility to share the knowledge and know-how that it has with the younger generation; by doing this, it will be able to enhance the professionalism in the company and the industry, continue development, and lead the company to achieve success. For these reasons, one of its goals is to continuously collaborate with national and regional educational institutions and local vocational schools, which are training and sending engineers and technical experts out into Hungary.
The company sponsored several events related to innovation and education such as the “Youth Scientific and Innovation Contest” run by the Hungarian Innovation Association, which is located in Budapest, and the “Annual Conference of European Society for Engineering Education” held in Budapest.
In addition, it accepts trainees from junior high schools and universities.

Efforts at Suzuki Plaza

Suzuki Plaza
https://www.suzuki-rekishikan.jp/ (Japanese language only)

Introduction to Suzuki Plaza

●Suzuki’s history floor

Visitors can see Suzuki’s history which started with looms in 1909 and products in old times such as Power Free, the motorized bicycle engine launched in 1952, Suzulight, the first mass-production mini vehicle in Japan launched in 1955, the first Jimny (LJ10) launched in 1970, and the first Alto which went on sale starting at ¥470,000 in 1979, through elaborate presentations.

●Suzuki’s Monozukuri floor

Based on the current manufacturing of automobiles as the theme, the process from planning and development to production and sales of a new model is displayed in order.
You can see how Suzuki’s automobiles are manufactured at the plant in the spectacular 3D theater Factory Adventure. In addition, there is a full-size assembly line and visitors can experience the simulated manufacturing site of automobiles.
This is a facility that can be enjoyed by not only car lovers but also children who are at an age where they are beginning to show interest in cars, with various displays including robots utilized at the plant, a movie titled “World Adventure” that introduces manufacturing by Suzuki in foreign countries, and a section that introduces the local Enshu area, etc.

●Field trips

The Suzuki Plaza is utilized by many local elementary schools as a place for field trips to deepen understanding of the automotive industry. Students can learn about the manufacturing process of automobiles in detail.
In FY2022, Suzuki Plaza was visited by 12,861 students from 168 elementary schools in nearby Hamamatsu City as well as from central and eastern Shizuoka Prefecture. After the tour, we linked the Suzuki Plaza and our plants online and held an online Q&A session in which the students could ask plant personnel questions in real time.
By accepting field trips from many elementary schools, we hope for children to deepen their knowledge of the automotive industry.

Field trip

●Monozukuri events

Support through sports

Track and field training program

Aiming to train athletes who can compete in international competitions such as the Olympics and the World Athletics Championships, the Suzuki Athlete Club has been dispatching Japanese national athletes for four consecutive Olympic Games from 2004 (Athens) to 2016 (Rio de Janeiro). Ryota Suzuki was selected to represent Japan in the men’s 4 x 100-meter relay race at the 2022 World Athletics Championships held in Oregon, and Marina Saito competed in the javelin throw in the 2023 World Athletics Championships held in Budapest.
The top-level athletes, including Olympians such as Akihiko Nakamura (who represented Japan in the decathlon at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro) and Ryohei Arai (who represented Japan in the javelin throw at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro), who are active inside and outside of Japan, cooperate in a track and field training program and lectures held in various regions. Based on their own experiences, they contribute to the popularization and development of track and field in Japan, as well as the enhancement of children’s physical strength.
The Suzuki Athlete Club will continue the activities to awaken children’s interests in track and field, as well as to communicate excitement and dreams that can be gained through sports.

Support and popularization of competitive aerobics

Suzuki provides widespread support for competitive aerobics through the Japan Aerobic Federation.
Aerobics originated from the therapeutic exercise prescription of aerobics proposed in the U.S. that later developed into a sport that technologically systemized aerobic dance and exercise.
In recent years, aerobics has been positioned as an expressive sport and point-scoring sport in the same way as artistic gymnastics. Aerobics spread around the world, including to Japan where the 1st All-Japan Fitness Aerobics Championship (currently the SUZUKI JAPAN CUP) was held in 1984. Currently, the sport is practiced in 80 countries around the world and there are international tournaments, such as the SUZUKI WORLD CUP and the Aerobic Gymnastics World Championships held by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG).

Slow aerobics, adapted aerobics

AustriaSuzuki Austria Automobil Handels GmbH

●Support for parasports activities

Suzuki Austria supports various para-athletes such as Jasmin Plank, who achieved 5th place at the home World Championship in 2018, and Andreas Onea, bronze medalist in the 100 m breaststroke at the 2016 Rio De Janeiro Paralympics. We also hold various charity events like the Suzuki Power Team Charity Run^*.

* Suzuki Power Team Charity Run: We sponsored an event for amateur athletes and their families in front of the Olympic Ice Canal in Igls near Innsbruck.

FranceSuzuki France S.A.S.

●LA SOLITAIRE DU FIGARO: Support for solo sailing Atlantic & transatlantic races

La Solitaire du Figaro is a mono-hull sailing race that has been going on for over 50 years. This race is considered a race to raise future world-class skippers and teams.
Route du Rhum is a world-class transatlantic yacht race, which takes place every four years. The race consists of six boat categories and over 120 boats take part in it, with over 1 million spectators gathering at the starting point to watch the race.
As an official partner, Suzuki France S.A.S. has been supporting the two races held in France, one in Solitaire (from 2005) and the other in Rhum (from 2014).
As a customer loyalty program and PR campaign, we have set up our booth before and during the races, and exhibit our vehicles, marine products, their catalogs, etc. in collaboration with our local dealers.
We have been implementing the following CSR activities and support.
The Suzuki Combativeness Award is given to the most active and combative competitor in each race. This award is given not only to the winner, but also to the person who had the most fighting spirit.

<Support details>

• We provide the Solitaire race with 7 cars and Rhum race with 15 cars respectively so that race organizers, each race team, skippers, medical and logistical staff can move freely throughout race venues.
• We also provide the Route du Rhum race with 36 outboard motors to ensure the participants’ safety on the sea from start to finish.
  https://www.routedurhum.com/en
  https://www.lasolitaire.com/fr

●Support for Stephane Paulus, disabled motorcycle racer

Suzuki France has developed a strong partnership with Stephane Paulus since 2017, a French motorcycle champion. We support him by supplying parts and motorcycles and lending him a Vitara.
Paulus was injured 14 years ago and founded the Handi Free Rider association in 2014 which helps disabled people to become motorcycle riders. He also organized the first international championship, Bridgestone Handy Race, which was held during Moto GP.
As he is a Suzuki fan, Paulus is very proud to sign an official contract with us. We also appreciate his positive image communication.
He takes part in many events such as autograph sessions in Moto GP, stunt shows riding our customized GSX-S1000, and social events for children. His activities are taken up by many media.
He gives a lot of hope to people with disabilities and plays an important role to set a good example for trying to achieve your dreams.

South AfricaSuzuki Auto South Africa (Pty.) Ltd.

●Imvuselelo Soccer Tournament sponsorship

Imvuselelo Sports Organization (ISO), an NGO based in Tembisa, is addressing the improvement of the environment for young people in Tembisa so that they can realize their full potential and avoid getting involved in drug abuse and crimes by playing sports such as soccer. The organization encourages sports and education for a bright future for young people. In addition to running the organization, it holds tournaments three times a year during school holidays. Since there is only one soccer field, each tournament is held over a week.
To make these tournaments more attractive, we provide financial support for them and contribute to paying referees' salaries and maintaining the soccer field.

Co-creation with various business partners

TOPICSSuzuki signs agreement with SkyDrive for the manufacture of flying cars
- Utilize Suzuki Group’s plant, and aim to start manufacturing by spring of 2024 -

TOPICSSuzuki reaches agreement with LOMBY for the joint development of autonomous delivery robots

Suzuki has signed an agreement with LOMBY Inc. (headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo; Tomoharu Uchiyama, Representative Director; hereinafter “LOMBY”) for the joint development of autonomous delivery robots.
LOMBY, established in April 2022, is a startup company engaged in the development, supply, and service operation of autonomous delivery robots. They are working to solve the last-mile logistical issue of delivery packages, which is increasing with the recent expansion in the use of online shopping and food delivery.
Since 2022, Suzuki and LOMBY have been exploring the possibility of an autonomous delivery robot using a base of Suzuki's motorized wheelchair. In this joint development, Suzuki will oversee the design and development of the base, while LOMBY will prototype and modify the autonomous delivery robot, develop a delivery system, and conduct demonstration tests. We will also study the use of common parts for delivery robots and motorized wheelchairs, to reduce manufacturing costs for mass production of autonomous delivery robots. In addition, we aim to register these vehicles as remotely-controlled micro mobility, which will be legalized on public roads under the revised Road Traffic Act of Japan that came into effect in April 2023, and hope to contribute by supplying robots to the last-mile logistics field.

TOPICSSuzuki and Daihatsu jointly exhibit at 10th NEXT GENERATION AGRICULTURE EXPO TOKYO

Suzuki and Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (Daihatsu) jointly exhibited at the 10th NEXT GENERATTION AGRICULTURE EXPO TOKYO at the 13th Agriculture Week held at Makuhari Messe from Wednesday, October 11 to Friday, October 13, 2023, as they did last year.
Suzuki and Daihatsu are companies that have continued to market light commercial vehicles used mainly by farmers for approx. 60 years, communicated their intention to continue to solve farmers’ problems and to join in fellowship with those supporting this intent of the companies make friends who agree with the will of both companies. The companies jointly exhibited for the first time in 2021.
This year’s joint exhibition was held under the theme of “Find what delights farmers and give it shape.” In addition to light commercial vehicles from both companies (Suzuki’s Spacia BASE and Daihatsu’s Hijet Truck), Suzuki exhibited the Mobile Mover, a multi-purpose robotic dolly, and Daihatsu’s agricultural drone and easy operation devices.
Going forward, the companies will continue to cooperate in efforts to support activities to solve customers' problems, based on their shared desire to enrich regional communities by helping farmers and other customers in their daily lives.

TOPICSSuzuki strengthens collaboration with African startup
- Signs MOU with Moove and MUFG Bank regarding support for global business expansion -

Suzuki signed a Memorandum of Understanding with African startup company, Moove Africa B.V. (Moove) and MUFG Bank, Ltd. (MUFG Bank) at the 8th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD8).
In addition to strengthening cooperation within the African continent, the MOU will utilize the respective global networks of Suzuki and MUFG Bank to support Moove’s business expansion beyond Africa.
Moove is a mobility fintech company founded in Nigeria. They provide auto finance under their unique business scheme to sole proprietors, and support Mobility as a Service (MaaS)-related businesses such as ride-hailing and food delivery. It also aims to have at least 60% of its future financing vehicles to be electric or hybrid.
Suzuki has been supplying vehicles to Moove through its automobile distributors in Africa since 2022. To date, we have supplied more than 4,000 Indian-made compact cars such as S-PRESSO in South Africa, Nigeria and Ghana.
Director and Senior Managing Officer, Kinji Saito, Executive General Manager of Global Automobile Marketing, said, “With the penetration of vehicle finance provided by Moove, we will contribute to the creation of new jobs, address social issues such as mobility and driver shortages, and promote the formation of a MaaS eco system in the countries where we operate.”

■ Overview of Moove

■ Suzuki’s sales in Africa

FY2022 114,624 vehicles

TOPICSCorporate venture capital fund Suzuki Global Ventures established
- Collaborating with start-ups to create products and services that matter to Suzuki’s customers and the world -

Suzuki established Suzuki Global Ventures (hereinafter “SGV”), a Silicon Valley (US)-based corporate venture capital fund, in October 2022.
Suzuki launched SGV to provide values that customers and society demand and deserve. We will accelerate the co-creation activities between Suzuki and start-ups, and create new businesses and business models. Moreover, by making SGV the access point of the start-up ecosystem, Suzuki aims to make investments that will address issues faced by customers and society not only in Japan but globally including the United States and India. Suzuki also hopes for SGV to contribute to the development of an ecosystem of collaboration and innovation between large corporations and start-ups.

Message from the President, Toshihiro Suzuki

Suzuki also began as a small start-up focused on making looming machines in 1920. Suzuki’s founding story goes back to when our founder Michio Suzuki created the innovative and userfriendly pedal-driven looming machine with the hopes of helping his mother, who had to work hard to weave cotton cloth.
Since its founding, Suzuki has been making it our mission to serve society by putting ourselves in the customers’ shoes and understanding their point of view.
Our roots of always striving to solve customers’ problems remain unchanged.
Through SGV, we look forward to taking the same steps toward addressing social issues by collaborating and innovating with the start-ups that share Suzuki’s mission.

■ Overview of the Suzuki Global Ventures corporate venture capital fund

■ Overview of World Innovation Lab (WiL)

World Innovation Lab (WiL) is a venture capital firm with bases in Silicon Valley in the U.S., and Tokyo, and discovers, nurtures and invests in promising venture companies, mainly in Japan and the U.S. While forming partnerships with major companies in Japan it proactively engages in open innovation promotions such as creating spin-out ventures and nurturing in-house entrepreneurs.
https://wilab.com/

Promotions by Suzuki Foundation

Suzuki Foundation

Suzuki has been supporting the scientific and technological research of various researchers through the Suzuki Foundation since 1980.
The Suzuki Foundation was established as The Mechanical Industry Development & Assistance Foundation in 1980. The Foundation served as a commemorative business to mark the 60th anniversary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, with funding from donations made by Suzuki and related companies. On April 1, 2011, the foundation officially changed its name to Suzuki Foundation.

Philosophy

Today, in the face of increasingly serious problems such as energy issues and global warming, the compact motor vehicle industry is expected to solve more advanced and complex issues than anything faced before. These issues encompass not only efforts to achieve carbon neutrality throughout the product lifecycle, from production to use and disposal, but also efforts to raise the sophistication of advanced safety technologies to achieve zero traffic accidents. To meet these expectations, it is more crucial than ever to promote advanced technological innovation in relevant industries and secure talented engineers. The foundation will continue to aid and subsidize technological development, as well as encourage and support young people who are motivated to engage in these fields.
Furthermore, the foundation will provide financial assistance for scientific research related to the production, use and consumption of machinery and other equipment that help to make people’s daily lives easier and more convenient, including compact motor vehicles, and will widely publicize the results of such efforts. Through these activities, the foundation will contribute to the overall development of Japan’s machinery industry and to the improvement of its national welfare.

Foundation activities

●Financial assistance for scientific and technological research projects

The foundation offers financial assistance for fundamental and unique research projects related to environmental, information, control, material, production and other technologies that lay the groundwork for societal development. Notably, in order to support young researchers, the foundation has set up a financial assistance program for young researchers aged 35 and under, in addition to its program for general researchers. In FY2022, the foundation provided financial assistance for 69 projects totaling ¥132,570,000, comprising the programs for both general and young researchers. From FY1980 to FY2022, we awarded financial assistance totaling ¥1,814,810,000 for 1,275 projects for researchers at universities, technical schools, and research institutes nationwide.

●Financial assistance for proposed subject research projects

The foundation also funds projects that concentrate the combined intellect of researchers in finding solutions to high priority concerns that should be addressed by the automotive engineering field and other sectors, such as safety issues, global environmental conservation, and natural energy resource saving. This financial assistance was initiated in FY2003, and each year it invites a wide range of researchers to submit research proposals on subjects including challenges that must be resolved immediately and problems that will arise in the future. Financial assistance is provided for outstanding proposals. In FY2022, the foundation disbursed funds of ¥32,700,000 for 4 projects. From FY2003 to FY2022, the foundation has disbursed funds totaling ¥418,660,000 for 45 projects.

●Financial assistance for publicizing research findings and overseas training of researchers

The foundation provides funding for symposiums and conferences held in Japan and overseas and assistance to subsidize the costs of attending symposiums and conferences held overseas, for the purpose of further improving and developing fundamental and unique research findings in the science and technology fields. In FY2022, the foundation made 35 disbursements of financial assistance totaling ¥9,260,000. It has provided a total of 689 disbursements of funds totaling ¥196,030,000 through to FY2022.

●Grants for scientific research and training for foreign nationals

Based on researcher exchange agreements between Shizuoka University and the Budapest University of Technology and Economics and the Indian Institutes of Technology, and such agreements between Toyohashi University of Technology and universities in India, the Suzuki Foundation has been supporting international study programs that bring researchers to Japan since FY1999.
In FY2022, the Suzuki Foundation awarded a total of ¥8,690,000 in grants to five researchers, including one from Budapest University of Technology and Economics in Hungary to Shizuoka University and one from the Indian Institutes of Technology to Shizuoka University and Toyohashi University of Technology. From FY1999 to FY2022, the Suzuki Foundation awarded grants totaling ¥147,980,000 to a cumulative total of 28 researchers.

●Yaramaika Grand Prize and Yaramaika Special Prize awards program

In 2020, in commemoration of the 40th anniversary of its founding, the Suzuki Foundation established the Yaramaika Grand Prize and the Yaramaika Special Prize, with the aim of further developing mechanical industrial technologies in Japan. This is an annual awards program to recognize motivated researchers who constantly take on new challenges with the “Yaramaika (give it a try) spirit” and make outstanding achievements.
The Yaramaika Grand Prize honors researchers who have made outstanding achievements in the development of scientific research related to the production, use, and consumption of machinery and other equipment that helps to make people’s everyday lives easier and more convenient, including compact motor vehicles. In addition, the Yaramaika Special Prize recognizes researchers who have received the Suzuki Foundation’s financial assistance for scientific and technological research projects and proposed subject research projects in the past and made achievements that will continue to benefit society well into the future. Winners of the Yaramaika Grand Prize will receive a prize certificate, a gold cup, and a supplementary prize of ¥10 million, while winners of the Yaramaika Special Prize will receive a certificate, a gold cup, and a supplementary prize of ¥3 million.
The third Yaramaika Grand Prize was received by Professor Emeritus Hiroshi Shimizu of Keio University, while the Yaramaika Special Prize was awarded to Professor Takanori Fukao of the University of Tokyo.

●Total assets and number and amount of disbursements

• Total assets:

¥11,111,930,000 (as of March 31, 2023)

• Number of disbursements:

113 in FY2022; cumulative total of 2,037 disbursements from FY1980 to FY2022

• Amount of disbursements:

¥183,220,000 in FY2022; cumulative total of ¥2,577,480,000 from FY1980 to FY2022

Support for the Motoo Kimura Trust Foundation for the Promotion of Evolutionary Biology

It is our wish to find causes of disease and pursue good health so that we may all lead pleasant and plentiful lives. In admiration of the efforts of the late Dr. Motoo Kimura, who was nominated for a Nobel Prize for his research in evolutionary studies, the Motoo Kimura Trust Foundation for the Promotion of Evolutionary Biology was established in December 2004 with funds donated by Suzuki. This trust foundation rewards those who have conducted research in the field of evolutionary biology and have made major contributions to research in this field.

Suzuki Education and Culture Foundation

Since 2000, Suzuki has been conducting support activities through the Suzuki Education and Culture Foundation to contribute to the sound development of youth in Shizuoka Prefecture. This foundation was established with full funding from the Suzuki Group as a commemorative business for the 80th anniversary of Suzuki’s foundation.

Foundation activities

●Offering scholarships to high school and university students

●Donation of goods to the PTAs of special-needs schools

●Management assistance for the Mundo de Alegria School for foreign nationals

●Track record of support (as of March 31, 2023)

• Scholarships provided: 577 students (¥441,820,000)
• Financial assistance to special-needs schools:129 disbursements (¥109,810,000)
• Financial assistance to schools for foreign nationals:13 disbursements (¥113,500,000)
• Scholarship aid to Shizuoka University of Art and Culture:10 scholarships (¥15,300,000)
• Financial assistance for Hamamatsu City learning support for foreign national children: 1 case (¥2,000,000)

Total amount: ¥682,430,000

Suzuki Education and Culture Foundation website (Japanese language only)

https://www.suzuki-ecfound.com

Support for the local community

The Suzuki Group carried out the following support for the local community in FY2022.

JapanDomestic sales distributors

At our sales distributors, we are conducting various support activities in alignment with the SDGs and using methods best suited to each company.

• PET bottle cap collection

• Food bank initiative

• Furugi de vaccine (secondhand clothing for vaccines) initiative

IndiaMaruti Suzuki India Limited

Community development

Community development projects are currently undertaken in 26 villages in Haryana and Gujarat. The company recognizes that the rapid industrialization in these areas has led to an influx of people and increased pressure on the already overburdened local bodies. Therefore, it has taken various initiatives to help bridge the gap in terms of resources and facilities for the people residing in these areas. Through its community development initiatives, the company aims to provide better healthcare, education, water, sanitation, and infrastructure facilities to improve the quality of life for the local communities.
Among the various community development initiatives, the latest initiatives which have been creating a significant positive impact are a state-of-the-art multi-specialty hospital and a fully equipped English medium school in Sitapur, Gujarat.

●Multi-Specialty Hospital, Sitapur

Sitapur general hospital interior (Sitapur, Gujarat)

The hospital improved the accessibility of healthcare services to people who previously had to travel long distances to access quality secondary and tertiary medical care. To serve the low-income population, the hospital is empaneled with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY) health insurance policy of the government of India.
During FY2022, the hospital has been instrumental in addressing the healthcare needs of more than 39,000 people through outpatients care and more than 3,000 people through inpatients care covering the nearby villages. Since inception, more than 60,000 patients have been treated and over 2,000 surgeries have been conducted. To further improve the specialty services in the cardiology area, a cath lab facility was set up in March 2023. It has a team of highly skilled and experienced doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who provide round-the-clock care to patients.
The hospital also demonstrated commendable efforts in providing treatment to over 170 dengue patients from July 2022 to September 2022. The outbreak of dengue posed a significant health challenge in the community, and the hospital swiftly mobilized its resources to cater to the increasing number of patients. In addition to providing quality medical treatment, the hospital has also conducted more than 30 health camps to promote preventive healthcare and healthy living.

●Maruti Suzuki Podar Learn School in Sitapur, Gujarat

●Village development project

- 16 tons of domestic waste collected from 8,500 households daily.

The company has been actively engaging in village development projects focused on water, sanitation, village infrastructure, and other similar crucial areas. These projects are tailored to address the specific needs of local communities and are implemented in different phases.
Over the years, the company has successfully undertaken initiatives such as setting up water ATMs at the community level and constructing household toilets, which have brought continuous benefits to the community members. These interventions have significantly improved access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities, positively impacting the health and wellbeing of the villagers.
During FY2022, the company has extended its village development efforts by undertaking specific activities that include the construction of paver streets, maintenance of sewer lines, and other initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall quality of life in the villages. Also, as an ongoing effort, support for door-to- door household waste collection and sweeping is provided in the nearby villages. Through the waste collection activity, more than 16 tons of domestic waste are collected from around 8,500 households daily. These activities are strategically designed to address critical infrastructure needs and contribute to the development of the project villages.
The company’s village development projects demonstrate its deep commitment to creating a positive impact on the lives of people residing in rural areas. Through its comprehensive approach, the company strives to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the villagers, foster community empowerment, and promote a better quality of life.

IndiaSuzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited

●Improving education environment and ensuring safety of public school students in low-income communities

Suzuki Motorcycle India Private Limited started a support project to repair and renovate three public schools around our company and enhance regional infrastructure. These schools are attended by students from low-income families. Government Sr. Secondary School, Darbaripur in Hasanpur (Secondary & Primary Wing) was in very harsh social circumstances; the safety of students and school staff was not guaranteed, and they faced serious health problems. For the other two schools, we built libraries and supplied school furniture. The total cost of the project is 12.33 million INR.

●Community health—Financial support for establishing two eye care centers

We provided financial support for the establishment of two eye care centers in Basai, Gurgaon and Tauru, Haryana, which are for low-income patients, to continuously support community health. We also provided financial support for cataract eye operations for around 100 low-income patients. The financial support cost is 7.77 million INR.

PakistanPak Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd.

●Donation for “Flood Relief Assistance”

From July to August 2022, Pakistan, particularly the Sindh province, was severely damaged by the devastating floods due to the record-high monsoon rains. Pak Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd. decided to donate food to “Flood Relief Assistance” in Sindh and Punjab to support flood victims. Local vendors and dealers also participated in this donation. In September 2022, a total of 7,300 food bags were distributed to various areas affected by the disaster.

●Support for educational institutions

IndonesiaPT Suzuki Indomobil Motor

●Distribution of relief supplies to Cianjur earthquake victims

HungaryMagyar Suzuki Corporation Ltd.

●Support for Angyalkert Kindergarten in Esztergom

●Donation

●Support for UNICEF national campaign against child abuse

Magyar Suzuki Corporation Ltd. is supporting the UNICEF national campaign against child abuse. In addition, we have participated in initiatives aimed at preventing and addressing bullying, including cyberbullying, for three consecutive years.
The main objective of UNICEF Hungary is to draw the attention of parents and teachers to the importance and seriousness of this problem, and to provide assistance and support to the children who have problems with bullying. To achieve this, we have further improved the HelpApp application, allowing victims and witnesses to access expert assistance with just one click. Additionally, an online knowledge repository has been prepared to help teachers and parents deal with bullying situations.
In early 2022, UNICEF and we updated the HelpApp so that Ukraine refugees can search in four languages to find the most important local information including how to obtain refugee status and application documents needed to emigrate from their country to other countries.

AustriaSuzuki Austria Automobil Handels GmbH

●Support for sustainability projects

The company provided the Hohe Tauern National Park with three VITARA Hybrid ALLGRIP cars. Thanks to these cars, the staff of the park can move comfortably and safely in the park to carry out their daily tasks.

• * The Hohe Tauern National Park is the largest protected area in the entire Alpine region and, with an area of 1,856 km2, a refuge for numerous animals and plants of the Alpine habitat. Endangered animals such as bearded vultures and golden eagles can be found there, as well as plant species such as gentians and edelweiss.

ItalySuzuki Italia S.p.A

●Suzuki Green Friday

The company decided to allocate 0.5% of its profits generated on November 25, 2022, Black Friday, to donate trees to the Parco Regionale della Mandria (La Mandria Regional Park), which was damaged by a storm.
This activity is one of its “Suzuki Green Friday” projects. More than 200 dealers from automobile, motorcycle, and marine divisions participated in the “Suzuki Green Friday” project and planted at least one Japanese cherry tree at each of their sites. On March 7, 2023, it planted 72 trees to reforest an area of the park that had been damaged.

FranceSuzuki France S.A.S.

●Support for Rêves de Gosse

●Support for La Voix de l’Enfant

●Support for Tara Ocean Foundation

●Support for L’Odyssée Bleue of Stephane Mifsud

In collaboration with many scientists, athletes, and team members, L’Odyssée Bleue of Stephane Mifsud suggests various activities to observe the natural environment at the bottom of a sea and protect it. One of the important tasks is to do educational work to get people to understand how important it is to protect our environment. Recently, L’Odyssée Bleue of Stephane Mifsud held the educational campaign “Get better knowledge and protect our environment” at Guadeloupe and Martinique, which are included in the French Antilles. The company provided it with one Suzuki Vitara car and three outboard motors for use in rib boats.
https://stephanemifsud.fr/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYwRoqk0tCg

●New partnership with OceanoScientific

●New mission for the Centre Terre association

U.K.Suzuki GB PLC

South AfricaSuzuki Auto South Africa (Pty.) Ltd.

●Filmgro Driving Academy

●Kalahari Endangered Ecosystem Project (KEEP)

●Support for South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind

●“Rally to Read” campaign

●Safety Beanie Project

Awards and recognitions

IndiaMaruti Suzuki India Limited

The company has been recognized and awarded for its outstanding efforts in various areas such as community development, skill development, and road safety. Below are the numerous awards and recognitions that the company has received in the past year for its CSR activities. These accolades are a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to creating a positive impact on society and its environment through its CSR initiatives.

■ Awards and recognitions