Osamu Suzuki, who led Suzuki Motor for over 40 years, passed away on Christmas Day at 94. He died because of lymphoma, said the company. In his capacity as chairman and CEO, Suzuki ambitiously led Suzuki Motor outside of the primary Japanese minicar market. His focus on cost-cutting established itself in the automaker’s culture. He was known for his grounded behaviour, which included flying in economy class and requesting lower factory ceilings to save on air conditioning.
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Born Osamu Matsuda, he took his wife’s family name through adoption, a common practice in Japan when families lack a male heir. Joining Suzuki Motor in 1958, he became president two decades later. Suzuki prevented the company’s demise in the 1970s by convincing Toyota Motor to provide engines that complied with new emission regulations. The company’s expansion was further solidified in 1979 with the introduction of the Alto minivehicle.
Osamu Suzuki has left a legacy in automative industry for all times to come.
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