Is Changan Suzuki a Joint Venture?
2 Answers
Changan Suzuki is a joint venture automobile. Changan Suzuki vehicles are produced through cooperation between China's Changan and Japan's Suzuki, with shareholding divided among three parties: Chongqing Changan Automobile Co., Ltd. (51%), Suzuki Motor Corporation of Japan (39%), and Suzuki (China) Investment Co., Ltd. (10%). Information about Changan Suzuki is as follows: 1. Changan Suzuki includes six series of models: Xiaotu, Vitara, Ciaz, S-Cross, SX4, Swift, and New Alto. 2. The Xiaotu is positioned as a 'capable urban SUV', with its product design concept being 'the best choice for urban families'. Combining some classic elements of the S-CROSS concept car, it integrates the experience of compact cars with SUV technology, offering both vitality and practicality.
Changan Suzuki was indeed a joint venture from the beginning. As an automotive enthusiast, I've been closely following its development. It was first established in 1993 as a 50-50 joint venture between China's Changan Automobile and Japan's Suzuki Motor, co-producing compact cars like the Alto and Swift. The advantage of this partnership was introducing Suzuki's technology and quality control, making vehicles affordable yet durable, which led to years of strong sales in the Chinese market. However, after 2018, Suzuki withdrew due to intense market competition, transferring all its shares to Changan. The brand is now independently operated by Changan and is no longer strictly a joint venture. This change had minimal impact on existing owners, as after-sales service continues, but newer models like the Alivio no longer bear the Suzuki emblem. Looking back, that golden era of joint venture cooperation helped elevate domestic automotive standards, and such vehicles remain highly sought-after in the used car market today. Understanding this history can assist car buyers in making more informed decisions.
