The Maruti Suzuki Board has appointed Hisashi Takeuchi as the managing director and CEO with effect from April 1, 2022. Current MD Kenichi Ayukawa’s term comes to an end on March 31, 2022, and he will continue as executive vice chairman and whole-time director till September in order to facilitate a smooth transition.

“India is one of the most interesting and promising automobile markets in the world and it has been both a challenging and a fulfilling stint for me,” Ayukawa said. “Hisashi Takeuchi has an excellent understanding of the Indian as well as international markets and is placed well to lead Maruti Suzuki into the future. I wish him a successful journey ahead.”

Takeuchi, who joined Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) in 1986, is experienced in handling international operations at SMC. He has been on the board of Maruti Suzuki since July 2019, and was later appointed as the joint managing director (Commercial) in April 2021. Ayukawa took over as the managing director of Maruti Suzuki India in April 2013.

Takeuchi added, “It will be my endeavour that we [Maruti Suzuki] keep serving more and more customers both in India and the world with exciting cars that are good for them, environment and society. We will also try to build our business in a manner that strengthens Atmanirbhar Bharat and the economic growth of India.”

Upcoming Maruti Suzuki cars and SUVs: 2022 and beyond

Maruti Suzuki is currently updating almost every single model in its passenger vehicle range in India. The brand introduced thenew Celerioa few months ago, followed by anall-new Baleno, updated theWagonRand launched theDzire CNG. Next, a refreshed Ertiga and XL6 are lined up for launch followed by the all-new Brezza and the brand'sfirst mid-size SUV- a Creta rival later this year.  An all-new Alto will market introduction later this year followed by the Jimny which will most likely go on sale sometime next year.