Maruti Suzuki India Limited, the country’s leading automobile manufacturer, has announced the commencement of exports of its ‘Made-in-India’ SUV, the Fronx, to Japan. This marks the first time Maruti Suzuki will launch an SUV in the Japanese market, highlighting a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion efforts. The move is a testament to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, embodying national pride and the growing prowess of Indian manufacturing.
The Fronx, which has been exclusively produced at Maruti Suzuki’s advanced facility in Gujarat, represents a remarkable achievement for the company. The first shipment, consisting of over 1,600 vehicles, departed from Gujarat’s Pipavav port, destined for Japan. This award-winning SUV is the second model from Maruti Suzuki to be exported to Japan, following the Baleno in 2016. Suzuki Motor Corporation, Maruti Suzuki’s parent company, is set to launch the Fronx in Japan by autumn 2024.
Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “I am proud to share that our ‘Made-in-India’ Fronx will soon be seen on the roads in Japan. Japan is one of the most quality-conscious and advanced automobile markets in the world. Our export to Japan is a testament to Maruti Suzuki’s capability to manufacture world-class vehicles that exemplify cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and internationally recognized safety and quality standards. It underscores our strong commitment to excellence. The Fronx embodies the best of engineering, design finesse, and is a beacon of Indian auto manufacturing excellence. I am confident that it will be received well by Japanese customers.”
Export Performance
Maruti Suzuki continues to strengthen its position as India’s leading passenger vehicle exporter. In FY 2023-24, the company shipped over 280,000 units to more than 100 countries, capturing a 42% share of the country’s passenger vehicle exports. In Q1 FY 2024-25, Maruti Suzuki achieved its highest-ever quarterly export volume, with 70,560 units shipped, setting a new benchmark for the company.