Toyota and Suzuki team up to launch hybrid SUV in August

Toyota and Suzuki will jointly manufacture their first hybrid sport utility vehicle (SUV) in India starting August.

Suzuki Motor Corp has developed the SUV model which will be produced at Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd plant in Bengaluru. Though it is a joint production, the two multinational giants will sell the hybrid SUV separately.

The new model will be called Toyota HyRyder and is likely to be unveiled on July 1, 2022.

The two companies will also explore international markets for their hybrid SUV, starting with Africa.

Akio Toyoda, President of Toyota said, “We are pleased to announce the new SUV with Suzuki, a company that has a long history of local involvement in the Indian business. Today, the automotive industry is facing various challenges such as electrification and carbon neutrality. By leveraging the respective strengths of Toyota and Suzuki to provide Indian customers with a variety of options, we hope to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions and realize a society where ‘no one is left behind and ‘everyone can move freely.”

Toshihiro Suzuki, President, Suzuki said, “Production of the new SUV at TKM is a project that can contribute to the growth of India through providing eco-friendly mobility needed by customers. We recognize that it is a big milestone toward further deepening our collaboration in the future. We appreciate the support from Toyota, and at the same time, will explore new synergy and business opportunities through continuous collaboration.”

As per media reports, the hybrid SUV will be a 1.5-litre petrol engine, backed by an electric motor. The base trims are likely to get a mild-hybrid petrol engine, possibly the 1.5-litre K-Series motor from the new Ertiga and XL6.