At the age of 94, Osamu Suzuki, the longtime CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation who turned the business into a major force in the automobile industry worldwide, passed away. The business confirmed in a statement that lymphoma was the cause of death.  

For over forty years, Suzuki, who is known for his keen business sense and thrift, led the automaker based in Hamamatsu. During that time, he helped the company enter foreign markets, especially in India. 

Early years and professional career of Osamu Suzuki

Suzuki's entry into the automobile industry began with an arranged marriage into the Suzuki family, the company's founders. He was born Osamu Matsuda on January 30, 1930, in Gifu, Japan. He joined the company in 1958 and became president in 1978, taking on the family name.  

Under his leadership, Suzuki Motor developed into a worldwide brand, partnering with General Motors and Volkswagen to grow in both North America and Europe. Suzuki persevered as a leader until his retirement in 2021 in spite of setbacks, including as a fuel-testing scandal in 2016.

Changing the automotive scene in India

Osamu Suzuki's choice to invest in India's nascent car industry was his most audacious and significant action. He formed Maruti Udyog in 1982 in collaboration with the Indian government, and a year later the renowned Maruti 800 hatchback was introduced. The automobile transformed transportation in India by providing middle-class households with an economical and effective choice.  

With over 40% of the market, Maruti Suzuki, as the firm is now known, is still the biggest automaker in India. Cultural changes were also brought about by Suzuki's dedication to workplace equality, which included common areas and consistent rules for all workers, regardless of position.

Honoring a 'visionary'

Global personalities and leaders in the industry have honored Suzuki, acknowledging his achievements to the automobile industry and his crucial role in the economic growth of India. His inventive strategy and unwavering commitment to establishing Suzuki Motor as a household brand will be remembered for a long time.

His wife, Shoko Suzuki, and their three kids are the only survivors of Osamu Suzuki. The millions of automobiles on the road today and the revolutionary impact he had on the global auto industry are testaments to his legacy.