Suzuki 2007 Annual Report Download - page 8

SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
Overseas Markets
Total overseas production saw a significant increase in fiscal 2006 rising to 1,199 thousand units, 112% compared to the
previous year. Total global production, including Japan, reached 2,412 thousand units, 110% compared to the previous
year. And sales of automobiles in overseas markets grew to 1,531 thousand units, 113% compared to the previous year,
while total global sales, including Japan, reached 2,222 thousand units, 107% compared to the previous year.
Of this volume, retail sales in the United States reached a record 102 thousand units, 114% compared to the previous
year. The increase is attributed to a rise in sales of the Grand Vitara (178% compared to the previous year) and the
successful introduction of the new SX4 and XL7 models. In Europe, favorable sales of world strategic models reached 306
thousand units (106% compared to the previous year), a record high. Expanding demand for the Swift and full production
startup of the SX4 lead to production volume at Magyar Suzuki in Hungary reaching 181 thousand units, 121% compared to
the previous year.
In Asia, production of the Grand Vitara started at Indonesia ISI to meet a possible increase in domestic demand of the
compact SUV. And in China, production of the SX4 at Chongqing Changan Suzuki and the Landy at Jiangxi Changhe
Suzuki in order to address increased demand in China. Meanwhile, production at Maruti Udyog in India increased to 667
thousand units (117% compared to the previous year) with sales increasing to 636 thousand units (121% compared to the
previous year). The new Manesar facility was also established in order to create a production system that can meet future
increases in demand. Pak Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd. in Pakistan achieved a significant increase in production, producing 120
thousand units (130% compared to the previous year) and sales increased to 119 thousand units (129% compared to the
previous year).
Following after the Swift and Grand Vitara, sales of our third world strategic model, the SX4, were launched in Europe.
This vehicle received high ratings from European journalists for its new crossover concept, superior driving stability and
handling performance. Global introduction of the SX4 followed after fine-tuning of specifications to fit individual market
needs. Demand remains very high. A sedan version was introduced at motor shows in Beijing and Geneva. We will continue
to meet an expanding range of needs.
Meanwhile, we introduced the Project Splash, a “clinic model” of our new 4th world strategic model, at the Paris Motor
Show in September 2006. In addition to pursuing the sporty concepts of the Swift, Grand Vitara, and SX4, the new model
places a greater emphasis on user friendliness.
Suzuki’s world strategic models are also taking an active role in motor sports. The Swift Super 1600 made it Junior
(World) Rally Championship debut in August 2005 winning five races out of six in 2006 then started the 2007 season in 1st
place.
It was also announced at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006, that the SX4, with its superior chassis potential,
would participate in the World Rally Cup. Since that announcement the SX4WRC has made excellent progress, undergoing
testing and fine-tuning. As a test it participated in the Rally de France in October 2007and will make its official debut will
take place in January 2008.
We are currently using our “Way of Life” campaign to characterize Suzuki’s overseas corporate philosophy and promote
active lifestyles. After fiscal 2007, we will continue to put our best efforts into providing the market with products that are
based on our brand philosophy.
YEAR IN REVIEW
SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
SX4
APV (manufactured at P.T.Indomobil
Suzuki International in Indonesia)
XL7 (manufactured at CAMI
Automotive Inc. in Canada)
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