Osamu Suzuki, the man who led Suzuki Motor Corporation for over five decades and was the longest serving head of a global automaker for more than 28 years as president, passed away on 27 December 2024 due to lymphoma.

A former bank employee Osamu Matsuda took over his wife’s surname Suzuki after their marriage. He joined Suzuki Motor Corporation in 1958 and worked in several roles before assuming the role of President in 1978.

It was in 1982, when the Indian government was scouting for bringing automotive manufacturing in India, Suzuki Motor Corporation picked up 26 percent stake in Maruti Udyog. This set the stepping stone for where Maruti Suzuki India is today.

Among various achievements, he will be fondly remembered for his bet on entering the Indian automotive market, which now serves as one of the largest markets for Suzuki Motor Corp.

As per media reports, Toshihiro Suzuki, the eldest son of Osamu Suzuki issued a statement that said: “The funeral was held privately with close family members until the ashes were interred. We respectfully decline condolence ceremonies, perfumes, flowers, condolence telegrams, etc.”

A statement issued by Maruti Suzuki India said, "Maruti Suzuki is deeply saddened on the passing of Osamu Suzuki, Senior Advisor, Suzuki Motor Corporation and Director & Honorary Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India. O. Suzuki was a visionary leader whose remarkable contributions shaped the global automobile industry. In India, his foresight and leadership were instrumental in the formation of Maruti Udyog in 1981. With his vision O. Suzuki played the pivotal role in realising the dream of putting India on wheels by empowering millions of Indian families with affordable, reliable, efficient and good quality vehicles. Under his stewardship, Indian automobile industry adopted the Japanese manufacturing and work practices that are globally recognised for teamwork, productivity and cost effectiveness. O. Suzuki’s legacy will live on as an inspiration to all of us at Maruti Suzuki and the entire automotive community in India. His passion to bring smiles to people’s lives through mobility will forever be cherished. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, business partners and colleagues in this moment of distress."

R C Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “It is with the deepest personal sorrow that I have learnt of the passing of Osamu Suzuki San. Without his vision and foresight, his willingness to take a risk that no one else was willing to take, his deep and abiding love for India, and his immense capabilities as a teacher, I believe the Indian automobile industry could not have become the powerhouse that it has become. Millions of us in this country are living better lives because of Osamu San. He won and enjoyed the trust of several Prime Ministers. He had a very close understanding with the present Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. Osamu San’s contribution to the Indian economy, and for building bridges between India and Japan was acknowledged by the conferment of the Padma Bhushan on him.”

“He will be missed by his innumerable admirers and beneficiaries in the country. I have lost someone who was closer than a brother to me. He changed my life and showed how nationality is no barrier to people building unbreakable bonds of trust in each other. He was my teacher, mentor and a person who stood by me even in my darkest days. If I played a role in the success of Maruti, it was because I was his student and he had taught me how best to grow a company and make it competitive.”

“Osamu San came to Delhi at the end of July this year despite not being in good health. He came because he wanted to attend my 90th birthday. It was the most touching event in my life. Little did I know that this would be the last time I would see him. Osamu San will no longer be there to guide us. His legacy and teachings will never be forgotten and he will be remembered every time Maruti reaches another milestone as a part of the progress of India. May God give strength to his family to bear this irreparable loss,” added Bhargava.

Shradha Suri Marwah, President, ACMA & CMD, Subros, said, “It is with profound sorrow that we bid farewell to Osamu Suzuki, the legendary former Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, whose visionary leadership and indomitable spirit transformed the global automotive industry. Over his remarkable career spanning several decades, he was instrumental in shaping Suzuki into one of the most trusted and admired automobile brands worldwide. His exceptional contributions to India through Maruti Suzuki not only revolutionised the Indian automotive landscape but also strengthened the bonds between India and Japan, fostering a partnership that set benchmarks for the global auto industry and the creation of a robust supply chain that empowered countless businesses. A trailblazer, mentor, and innovator, Suzuki's unwavering commitment to excellence, humility, and sustainability has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know him. His legacy will continue to inspire generations in the automotive and business communities. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Suzuki Motor Corporation family during this time of grief.” 

Image: File photo: Flickr

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The Honda India Foundation handed over 101 Emergency Response Vehicles to the Mumbai Police at a ceremony held in Worli, Mumbai. The deployment includes 100 Honda CB350 motorcycles and one Honda Elevate vehicle modified for police use to support patrolling and field response capabilities in Mumbai.

The flag-off ceremony took place in the presence of Mohd. Suvez Haque, IPS, Joint Commissioner of Police (Administration), Mumbai; Piyush Mittal, Vice-President & Operating Head, General Affairs & Corporate Affairs, Honda Cars India; Rajeev Taneja, Operating Officer, Honda India Foundation and representatives from the police and the foundation.

The motorcycles are equipped with sirens, public-address systems, LED emergency lights, front display boards, windscreens and storage boxes. The Honda Elevate has also been customised for police duties.

This deployment forms part of the Honda India Foundation programme, ‘Sadak Sahayak – Surakshit Marg, Surakshit Jeevan.’

With this handover, the foundation has deployed a cumulative 613 motorcycles to support police mobility and field operations across India.

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Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the 19th edition of the India Couture Week.

The event, in its fourth consecutive year in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India will run from 23rd to 29th July 2026.

For the first time, the event commences with a showcase by designer Anamika Khanna at the Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad on 23rd July 2026. Subsequent showcases take place at the Taj Palace in New Delhi from 24th to 29th July 2026, featuring designers including Falguni Shane Peacock, Rohit Bal, House of Masaba, JJ Valaya, Tarun Tahiliani, Roseroom by Isha Jajodia, Rimzim Dadu, Arpita Mehta, Kunal Rawal, Dolly J, Jayanti Reddy, Aisha Rao and Rahul Mishra. The event will also include a display of the IONIQ 5.

Tarun Garg, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India, said, “As we celebrate 30 remarkable years of driving progress in India, we are delighted to continue our partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India for the fourth consecutive year at Hyundai India Couture Week 2026. This enduring association reflects our shared belief that exceptional design, innovation and craftsmanship have the power to inspire and create meaningful experiences. At Hyundai, design goes beyond aesthetics, it is at the heart of how we shape future mobility. Through platforms like India Couture Week, we are proud to celebrate India’s vibrant creative talent while strengthening our connection with discerning customers who value innovation, style and excellence. As we look ahead, we remain committed to enriching lives through smart mobility solutions and meaningful collaborations that reflect the aspirations of a new India.”

Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI, said, "Our partnership with Hyundai Motor India enters its fourth successful year, reflecting a shared commitment to design excellence, innovation and craftsmanship. Hyundai India Couture Week has evolved into India's most prestigious and awaited couture platform, championing the artistry of our designers and artisans while setting new benchmarks for creativity season after season. We are proud to once again present the 19th edition that celebrates the richness of Indian couture, while shaping the future of global luxury fashion."

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Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has added two dual-tone colour options, Shimla Green and Steel Grey, to the Slavia Monte Carlo range. The limited edition is restricted to 200 units and will be available in the 1.0 AT and 1.5 DSG variants.

The Monte Carlo version features blacked-out exterior styling elements and a black and red interior theme. Customers can select between a 1.0-litre TSI engine paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission and a 1.5-litre TSI engine paired with a 7-speed DSG. The 1.5-litre unit includes Active Cylinder Technology and Plasma-Coated Cylinder Liners.

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “The Slavia Monte Carlo has been well received by customers for its distinctive design, premium appeal, engaging driving dynamics and strong connection to our motorsport heritage. We are further enhancing the individuality and desirability of the Monte Carlo range, offering customers greater choice and exclusivity. The Slavia Monte Carlo continues to embody the perfect blend of style, performance, and modernity. We will continue to strengthen our sedan portfolio, in line with the evolving aspirations of our customers.”

The Monte Carlo trim pays homage to Skoda's involvement in the Rallye Monte Carlo.

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Stellantis-owned French automotive brand Citroen India has announced the launch of the Basalt X Comfort Edition, priced from INR 875,000.

The new edition is introduced as part of the brand's 108th anniversary celebrations and marks the extension of Citroen’s Comfort philosophy to the Basalt lineup.

The Basalt X Comfort Edition features Metropolitan Beige Leatherette Seats as standard and introduces curated Comfort AXS Packs. These packages include equipment such as JBL Audio, dash cameras, a reverse parking camera, a wireless charger and a 10-inch Android touchscreen.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, "At Citroen, comfort has always been at the heart of everything we do. As we celebrate Citroen's 108th anniversary globally, the introduction of the Basalt X Comfort Edition further reinforces our commitment to bringing comfort-led innovation to Indian customers. Following the encouraging response to the Aircross Comfort Edition, we are extending this philosophy to the Basalt, making premium comfort features more accessible across our portfolio. The Basalt X Comfort Edition combines premium factory-fitted interiors with thoughtfully curated Comfort AXS Packs that enhance convenience, technology and personalisation – delivering greater value and an ownership experience that truly reflects Citroen's Advanced Comfort philosophy."

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