Suzuki 2002 Annual Report Download - page 11

* We introduced many new models along with many full model change and
minor change models in Japan, in response to changes in user demands
reflected in the market trends.
* We enhanced our automobile lineup, by introducing new models such as
the Chevrolet Cruze, Aerio Sedan, MR wagon and Alto Lapin, and by
implementing minor changes and offering special versions and other new
versions, for other models.
* The Chevrolet Cruze, jointly developed by Suzuki and General Motors,
was introduced in October 2001 and sales began through sales channels of
both Suzuki and General Motors. Suzuki also reached basic agreement with
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. in April 2001 for OEM supply of mini vehicles.
Sales of this OEM supplied vehicle, based on the MR wagon and named
Nissan Moco, started from April 2002. OEM supply of mini vehicles to
Mazda Motor Corporation continues.
* We have been enhancing our Suzuki Arena dealerships to further heighten
the strength of our domestic sales network. Having achieved our initial
target of 1,000 Arena dealerships by the end of March 2002, we will
henceforth aim to heighten the quality of each Arena dealerships.
* Our automobile production has been moving forth steadily. For instance,
aggregate production at Iwata Plant reached 8 million units in February
2002.
* In March 2002, construction work of the assembly line at Kosai No. 1 Plant
was completed and operations began. We introduced new methods at the
Kosai No. 1 Plant's new assembly line, such as the use of a highly productive
line which features a streamlined process and which enables production at
low cost, and new measures to achieve product quality.
* As for the development of automobiles, on October 2001, we announced
the start of mutual cooperation with General Motors in the technological
field of fuel cells, and put on exhibit a concept car called Covie at the Tokyo
Motor Show held the same month. Also on display at the Tokyo Motor Show
were various concept cars that reflected Suzuki's strength as a maker of small
cars, including the GSX-R/4, a new-sensation sports model incorporating
many of Suzuki's unique ideas and technology.
Domestic Topics
Automobiles
* Suzuki once again during this fiscal year introduced many new models in the Japanese domestic mini vehicle market, and made various efforts
to boost sales, with various active sales promotion measures. As a result, in this fiscal year, we were able to once again become the top seller of
mini vehicles, for the 29th consecutive year.
BUSINESS REVIEW
MR wagon
Motorcycles
* New motorcycle models such as Birdie 90, 250SB, GSX250FX, Let's II Standard and VanVan 200 were introduced, as well as minor-change
versions of the Love, an electric power-assist bicycle, Verde, GS1200SS and Address V100. With the Let's II Standard, we were able to offer a
domestically produced scooter at a low price.
* We promoted the advanced designs of Suzuki motorcycles by exhibiting concept models such as the B-King, a new motorcycle that smoothly
incorporates IT technology, and V-Strom 1000, a sports enduro tourer powered by a 1000cc V-Twin engine.
* Suzuki reached a basic agreement to form a business alliance with Kawasaki Heavy Industries on August 2001 for the purpose of establishing
a highly profitable motorcycle business. Based on this basic agreement, we started mutual OEM supply from January 2002.
Marine, Power Products, and others
* New products introduced to our lineup of welfare, elderly care and marine products included an electric wheelchair MC2000S/MC3000S, a
Senior Car electric wheelchair ET-4G, 4-stroke outboard motor DF140, Package Boat Splash R, fishing boats F250 Hard Top and F250 Hard Top
Slide Door.
Overseas Topics
Suzuki, with its policy of contributing to the local economy and society, has been undertaking numerous local production enterprises. At
present, we have established a global manufacturing network of 40 companies in 22 countries with production bases for automobiles, motorcycles
Alto Lapin
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
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