The Maruti Suzuki We Deserve…

Summary

Maruti Suzuki, once a pioneer in India's automotive industry, now faces challenges in inspiring new generations of car buyers. Despite a strong presence in India, the company struggles with a perception of lacking excitement and safety, as evidenced by poor crash test results. However, Maruti is adapting with a partnership with Toyota to develop efficient hybrid vehicles and has taken steps towards better safety standards with its Nexa initiative. The company must balance safety improvements with affordability to maintain its market leadership.

Takeaways

• 🚗 Suzuki used to be known for making desirable, exciting, and futuristic cars 40 years ago.
• 🤝 Suzuki formed a successful partnership with the Indian government, leading to the creation of the iconic Maruti Suzuki 800.
• 🏆 Maruti Suzuki became a leader in efficiency, dependability, and performance, setting the standard in India’s car market.
• 🏙️ Today, Maruti Suzuki is deeply embedded in India, with a presence in over 2,000 cities, making it the top choice for first-time car buyers.
• 🐢 However, Maruti Suzuki is losing appeal among second and third-generation car buyers, as it no longer excites or inspires.
• 🤖 Suzuki’s new partnership with Toyota is yielding strong hybrid vehicles like the Grand Vitara, combining Toyota’s hybrid technology with Suzuki’s platforms.
• 🔋 Maruti Suzuki is investing in electric vehicle (EV) technology, with a manufacturing plant already operational in India.
• ⚠️ Safety concerns are a growing issue for Maruti Suzuki, with poor performance in Global NCAP crash tests compared to European standards.
• 💰 Maruti Suzuki faces a dilemma: improving safety features may raise costs, making their cars less affordable for the masses.
• 🔄 The company is evolving slowly, but they need to improve both safety standards and perceptions to stay competitive in a young, dynamic market.

Q & A

What was the significance of the Maruti Suzuki 800 when it was introduced?

The Maruti Suzuki 800 was significant because it was efficient, dependable, and performed better than other cars at the time. It set the template for what Maruti Suzuki would stand for.

How has Maruti Suzuki's strength evolved over time?

Maruti Suzuki's strength has evolved from being known for their efficient cars to having a deep understanding of the Indian market, with a presence in 2000 cities and being the first choice for many first-time car buyers.

Why has Maruti Suzuki lost its ability to inspire and excite car buyers?

Maruti Suzuki has lost its ability to inspire and excite because it has become slower to move and innovate, leading second and third generation car buyers to not consider it in their shopping list.

What is the nature of the partnership between Suzuki and Toyota?

The partnership between Suzuki and Toyota involves combining their strengths to create efficient and versatile vehicles, such as the Grand Vitara, which uses Toyota's hybrid powertrain and Suzuki's European chassis.

How is Maruti Suzuki addressing the future of electric vehicles?

Maruti Suzuki is addressing the future of electric vehicles by partnering with Toyota and having a cell manufacturing plant operational in India, with another one planned.

What is the issue with Maruti Suzuki's safety perception?

Maruti Suzuki's safety perception is negatively affected by poor crash test results from Global NCAP, which tests cars at 64 kilometers per hour, compared to the 55 kilometers per hour standard in India and Japan.

How does the Global NCAP crash test differ from those in India and Japan?

Global NCAP crash tests are conducted at a higher speed of 64 kilometers per hour, which is more stringent than the 55 kilometers per hour standard used in India and Japan.

What is the controversy surrounding the Grand Vitara's safety?

The controversy is that people find it hard to believe that the Grand Vitara, which feels robust, is not a Toyota, and its safety might not be proven soon because Global NCAP is unlikely to test it, and Maruti Suzuki won't send them any cars.

What is the dilemma Maruti Suzuki faces regarding safety features and pricing?

Maruti Suzuki faces a dilemma between adding more safety features and technology, which could make their cars more expensive and less accessible, or continuing to offer decent cars that transition people from less safe motorcycles.

What steps is Maruti Suzuki taking to improve its safety image?

Maruti Suzuki is taking steps to improve its safety image by introducing new products and focusing on safety, as seen with their Nexa brand, which emphasizes safety alongside a better experience.

What is the expected change in India's crash test norms?

India's crash test norms are expected to change to align with global standards, increasing the test speed to 64 kilometers per hour.