Suzuki Partners With Tata Gotion, FinDreams for EV Batteries

Suzuki Moto Corp has entered into multiple strategic partnerships with Tata Gotion, TDS Lithium-ion Battery Gujarat (TDSG), FinDreams Battery and ELIIY Power to secure a stable and sustainable battery supply for future operations.

These collaborations will support Suzuki Motor’s growing electric mobility business and ensure a diversified procurement strategy. They will strengthen the company’s supply chain and accelerate its transition towards electrification across different segments. Each of these partners specializes in various types of batteries tailored to specific vehicle applications. 

Tata Gotion supplies batteries for electric motorcycle, while TDSG provides lithium-ion batteries for mild and strong hybrid cars. FinDreams Battery is the designated supplier for automobile BEVs, ensuring a steady battery supply for Suzuki’s electric vehicle production.

Additionally, Suzuki is collaborating with ELIIY Power to establish a battery R&D center at their Kawasaki Plant, focusing on in-house production and developing domestically manufactured batteries.

The automaker’s investor presentation noted that the strategy is to procure batteries with proven performance and quality with the cooperation of partners and prepare for future demand expansion by considering the joint development of domestically produced batteries towards in-house production.

"The company is committed to its technology strategy of energy minimization, lean battery, and efficient battery reuse system by optimizing battery procurement based on regional production conditions. Additionally, there is a focus on enhancing localization in India to align with the expanding electric vehicle market,” Suzuki Motor said. 

India is set to play a pivotal role in Suzuki’s battery and electric vehicle strategy. The company is positioning the country as a global production and export hub for its electric cars, with plans to increase its overall annual production capacity to four million units.

During his recent visiting to India, Suzuki Motor President Toshihiro Suzuki said: “India will be a global production hub for Suzuki electric vehicles…India will also be the export hub for hybrid vehicles.” The automaker recently unveiled its first electric car e-Vitara, which will first be exported to Europe from India, before selling in India. It has also unveiled the electric version of its popular Access scooter in India.

Suzuki Motor eyeing a portfolio of four battery electric cars in the passenger vehicle segment in India by 2030, and is estimated to have an annual volume of around 381,000 electric cars by the end of this decade. BEVs are expected to comprise 15% of Maruti Suzuki’s powertrain mix by the end of this decade while the mix of CNG, and traditional ICE and hybrid vehicles are seen at 35% and 25%, respectively.

The focus on localization will support domestic demand and enhance India’s role as a key supplier to international markets. Suzuki will continue to expand its supply chain, invest in new manufacturing facilities such as the Kharkhoda and Gujarat plants, and leverage India’s growth potential to drive its global electrification plans.

Through these partnerships and strategic investments, Suzuki is securing its position in the evolving automotive landscape, ensuring a sustainable and efficient transition towards electric mobility in India and beyond.

Additionally, Suzuki aims to commercialize high-safety and durable batteries suitable for mobility and stationary storage applications. The company is also exploring building a battery factory and securing battery materials through in-house procurement to enhance self-sufficiency and competitiveness in the evolving electric vehicle market.