Suzuki スズキ

Suzuki was founded in 1909 by Michio Suzuki as Suzuki Loom Works in Hamamatsu, making weaving machines for Japan's silk industry. As the textile industry declined after World War II, Suzuki diversified, building its first motorized bicycle in 1952 and its first automobile, the Suzulight, in 1955; the company was renamed Suzuki Motor Co. in 1954.

Suzuki built its identity around compact, fuel-efficient vehicles for cost-conscious markets. It became a major force in emerging economies, most notably through Maruti Suzuki, a joint venture launched in India in 1982 that grew into India's best-selling carmaker. Suzuki remains one of the world's leading motorcycle and small-car manufacturers, alongside a strong marine outboard engine business.