Monitoring Page

Gearing up for the coming year, Suzuki Philippines Inc. held a national dealer conference for its automotive dealers at the Diamond Hotel in Manila last November 19, 2009. Appropriately entitled “On The Road To Success”, the conference included a review of year-to-date business performance, serving as inputs for 2010 business planning activities.

Vehicle Sales

One of the highlights during the conference was the marketing report which reflected Suzuki’s 10.8% increase in year-to-date sales of 2,078 units from Jan-Oct 2009, as compared to the same period in 2008. The positive sales growth classifies Suzuki with four other car brands to have posted increased sales in spite of the economic crisis, while the majority of other players suffered a constriction in number of units sold.

Suzuki passenger cars registered a 2.8% market share on sales of 1,067 units, placing Suzuki in the 7th spot well ahead of the other manufacturers/distributors in this category. In the same period, Suzuki was one of only two brands which posted growth in passenger car sales. Next year, Suzuki is aiming for the 4th position in this category. Meanwhile, in the highly competitive commercial vehicle category, Suzuki gained 15.5% increase in sales, selling 1,011 units for a 1.5% market share in 9th spot. Next year, Suzuki is targeting to hit and exceed the number 8 position in this category.

With the announcement of exciting plans for 2010 new model introductions, company officials expressed optimism that Suzuki would further strengthen its market position in the local automotive industry.

Top Dealers

Suzuki Philippines uses a balanced score card system for rating dealer performance in sales, parts and service, with points awarded for various criteria. With three quarter evaluations already completed, Suzuki announced the preliminary leaders for the Top Dealer award, with Suzuki Auto Laguna, Suzuki Auto Kalookan, and Suzuki Auto Cebu in the running for the sales category, and Suzuki Auto Kalookan, Suzuki Auto Cebu and Suzuki Auto E. Rodriguez vying for the top spot in the service category.

Also discussed during the dealer conference were changes in reporting procedures with emphasis on paperless communications. Currently, Suzuki has 18 auto dealerships nationwide catering to the needs of the public for Suzuki vehicle sales, genuine parts and reliable service.

Bestsellers

The Suzuki APV Type II SGX , a 7-seater family van, was recently chosen as the “2009 Compact People Carrier of the Year” by local automotive publication, C! Magazine. The Suzuki Alto, meanwhile, has recorded worldwide sales of 10-million units, and is the best-selling car in India with an average of 20,000 units sold monthly.

Has comprehensive Philippine maps for 110 key cities; 40,000 points-of-interest


AVT, the premiere provider of trendsetting, high-quality mobile audio-video systems, has introduced the new AVT Navigator P820, marking a significant upgrade to the Philippines' first portable GPS navigation system. Launched earlier this year, AVT Navigator GPS devices quickly gained strong market acceptance with the most updated maps not only of Metro Manila but many of the country's key cities and major travel destinations — a service that could not be matched by other, more well-known brands. Comprehensive iNAV map coverage now includes 40,000 points of interest and close to 100% of road networks for Metro Manila, as well as updated maps for 110 key cities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

With its latest offering, the new AVT Navigator P820 features a high-resolution touch-screen color display, SD/MMC card slot, multimedia functionality, and voice-prompt technology. Backed by superior Japanese technology, the AVT Navigator P820 is equipped with a powerful Centrality ARM926T AT 4X04 CPU that is able to quickly position the device and plot alternative routes based on the user's preference. The new AVT Navigator P820 is extremely portable, and can be set-up in any car in minutes. Users can also add favorite locations and set their home location, so coming back from unfamiliar places shouldn’t present a problem.

Aside from the upgraded hardware, the new AVT Navigator P820 is served by a stronger local support team with the recent incorporation of iNAV from OE Works Manufacturing Inc., a subsidiary company devoted exclusively to updating and verifying the maps loaded on AVT navigation devices.

AVT navigation systems project team leader William Chong, who is intimately involved in the development process notes, "Our company was the first to make a strategic commitment to a Philippine-based GPS navigation system. First, we invested in developing the equipment with our AVT Navigator devices. Now, through the iNAV, we have made another major long-term investment in our proprietary software and navigation technology to ensure the most accurate and updated maps. With our dedicated mapping team, we now have people on the ground all over the country, continuously updating our map information. We believe it is this commitment to local support that sets us apart from other brands. Filipino IT workers are valued all over the globe for their technical skills and creative solutions — we are harnessing this talent to create the leading GPS navigation system customized for Philippine road conditions.”

The new AVT Navigator P820 is very reasonably priced, allowing users to experience this ultimate time-saving tool for reaching unfamiliar destinations at a price that won’t break the bank. AVT navigation devices have received the thumbs-up from leading local car manufacturers, and is factory-installed as OE (original equipment) for high-end models such as the Ford Everest, Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Galant, and Isuzu Alterra.

AVT (which stands for Audio-Video Technology) specializes in premium audio-visual entertainment systems for mobile applications. It offers a wide range of in-car mobile electronics, including display monitors, DVD players, digital and analog terrestrial receivers, sound processor/high-power amplifiers, specialist speakers, and AV controllers and accessories to suit all types of in-vehicle installations. For the mobile entertainment market, it also carries all-in-one LCD DVD players in various screen sizes to meet every budget and application. Aside from consumer products which retail in car dealer accessories shops, AVT is also an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for many of the country’s leading car brands. iNAV is a subsidiary company dedicated to providing mapping support exclusively for AVT navigation devices.

Suzuki Philippines Inc. (SPH), the country’s only integrated motoring company has launched the latest-generation scooter, the Suzuki Skydrive 125 which, with its futuristic design and advanced technologies, promises to bring fresh excitement to the local motorcycle community.

Development Concept

During its conceptualization, the Skydrive development team focused on designing a scooter that would implement the most advanced technology features. The result was a concept bike that was aerodynamic, very agile, and comfortable with adjustable honeycomb-style seats. First exhibited at the 2008 Bangkok International Auto Show, the two SD concept models created a buzz with their revolutionary design. Public perception judged the SD prototypes as the first-ever Japanese scooters that managed to dethrone the Italian style.

Suzuki Way of Life

Team Suzuki ends 2009 season on high note

Suzuki Philippines has emerged as one of the top racing marquees in the local motorsports scene as Team Suzuki ended the 2009 season with national championships in the 115 Open Class and 115 Sports Production categories, and first runner-up overall standings in the 150 Open and 180 Automatic Open categories.

In the season-ender held last October 18 at Clark International Speedway, Team Suzuki clinched championship points with 1-2 finishes by Johnlery Enriquez and Paul Mark Doblada, both riding the Suzuki Smash Revolution in the 115 Open Class and 115 Sports Production categories.

In the highly competive 150 Open Class, Johnlery Enriquez, riding a Suzuki Raider R150, emerged as overall 1st runner-up. Similarly, Ivan Santiago posted overall 1st runner-up points in the 180 Automatic Open Class on a Suzuki Step 125.

According to Suzuki racing team manager Lito Alontaga, “Racing has always been part of the Suzuki heritage, and Suzuki motorcycles have a well-deserved reputation as powerful, high-performance machines. In the Philippines, the Suzuki Team has been rejuvenated with stronger management initiatives, as well as our partnership with Yoshimura Japan to develop performance kits for our bikes. We are very pleased with what we have achieved this year and look forward to an even more competitive season next year.”

The Suzuki Smash Revolution, which dominated the 115cc competitions, is a revolutionary motorcycle that combines power and fuel efficiency for everyday use. This race-proven powerhorse has a high-revving, strong-pulling 110cc engine that is also extremely economical. This is thanks to Suzuki’s patented Pulsed Secondary Air Injection (PAIR) system that maximizes engine efficiency by igniting unburned gases inside the exhaust port. In addition, improved bodyworks and trendy decals give the Suzuki Smash Revolution its distinctively sporty look and fashionable style.

The Suzuki Raider R150 is a trailblazing sporty underbone with a powerful twin-cam 150cc engine that delivers a class-topping maximum power of 16-horsepower. Its lightweight frame, combined with telescopic front and rear mono-shock swing-arm suspensions, makes the Suzuki Raider R150 one of the best road-handling bikes as well. Suzuki has partnered with Yoshimura Japan to develop a performance kit consisting of exhaust pipe and intake camshaft. These enhancements are expected to provide a performance boost by maintaining maximum power at higher rpm.

Not to be outdone, the Suzuki Step 125 also turned in excellent race results in the 180 Open Automatic category. Its high-power, high-torque 125cc engine, combined with a continuously variable transmission system lives up to its billing as a power-fully automatic machine that takes comfort and excitement to a new level. Outside of the race track, the Suzuki Step 125 is packed with high-end features such as a terminal power source for mobile charging, a large underseat compartment with multi-purpose pouch, and anti-theft magnetic key ignition shutter lock.

Official Team Suzuki riders consist of Johnlery Enriquez, Paul Mark Doblada, and Ivan Santiago. They are ably supported by Lito Alontaga, team manager; Mel Aquino, team captain; Noel Villapando, team assistant ; Jeric Guevarra, chief mechanic; Robert Ulang, assistant team mechanic ; Ricardo Ortiz, team parts control coordinator; Malvin De La Cruz, Glen Lastra and Armstrong Herber, pit crew.

Profitable Operations

Despite the current global financial crisis, Suzuki Motor Corporation has maintained a solid reputation due to its strong position in the mini-vehicle market, thus bolstering its operational performance.

In June this year, Suzuki’s worldwide vehicle sales topped the 40-million mark, with 19.67-million units sold in Japan, and 20.33-million in overseas markets. In March 2009, it reported 30-billion yen in net earnings from worldwide operations, the largest such earning among automotive companies, and one of only two companies which registered a profit for fiscal year 2008. Suzuki has an unbroken track record of consistently profitable operations for the past 30 years, an achievement of particular significance as it celebrates its centenary in October 2009.

Winning Legacy

Suzuki motorcycles have always been a strong presence in the global racing scene, capturing trophies and championships in Grand Prix and other international races. This winning track record has given Suzuki products a well-deserved reputation for power, consistency, and durability.

In 1970, Suzuki became the first Japanese manufacturer to win a motocross world championship when Joel Robert won the 250cc title. In succeeding years, Suzuki established itself in the motorcycle racing world with world championships in the premier 500cc category of road racing and motocross.

Suzuki’s winning legacy has resulted in a Guinness record for the Suzuki Hayabusa, recognized as the “world’s fastest production bike,” capable of achieving a top speed of 317kph.

In its own understated way, Suzuki automobiles also have a solid following, particularly in the mini-vehicle and off-road 4x4 categories. Relying on performance, quality, value and high-technology, Suzuki is one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, outselling Mazda, Subaru and Porsche combined.
The Suzuki Alto and Suzuki Swift are leading models in the mini-vehicle category, while the Suzuki Grand Vitara, Suzuki Fronte, and Suzuki Jimny are well-loved among off-road enthusiasts.

The Suzuki Swift debuted in the JWRC (Junior World Rally Championship) in 2005, and has since enjoyed several winning moments. In 2006, the Swift won five out nine events, and was rated as the best in the Super 1600 category. In 2007, P-G Andersson won the championship on the Suzuki Swift.

Strong Global Presence

From industrial looms in 1909, Suzuki now produces a full range of automobiles, including light trucks, off-road sport-utility vehicles, mini-cars, as well as racing bikes, scooters, all-terrain vehicles, and marine outboard motors.
The Suzuki brand has a strong market base in Europe, particularly in Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and England. The Suzuki Alto is the best-selling car in India, averaging 20,000 units sales monthly.

Globally, Suzuki employs over 45,000 people, has 35 main production facilities in 23 countries, and distributors in 196 countries. Its manufacturing philosophy is grounded on providing value-packed, high-quality products offering both reliability and originality. Suzuki R&D efforts are devoted to creating products that will meet the challenges of the next generation.

Suzuki Philippines recently announced a special service assistance to Ondoy victims by offering 25% discount on flood-damaged parts and 20% discount on labor for repair of flood-damaged vehicles.

According to Suzuki President Satoshi Uchida, “Our company philosophy has always been to offer our customers value-packed, high-quality products that enhance their quality of life. By offering this service assistance to Suzuki vehicle-owners, we hope to help ease their recovery so that they can continue to enjoy the Suzuki way of life.”

The special service assistance is available for current Suzuki vehicles like the APV, Grand Vitara, Swift, SX4, Celerio, Alto and Jimny models. To facilitate servicing, only units sold by authorized Suzuki dealers are eligible for the special discounts. Similarly, only customers with Ondoy/flood-affected Suzuki vehicles are qualified for the service assistance.

The Suzuki flood assistance discount is available at the following Metro Manila and Luzon dealers: Alabang (02 6592954 –55 –57 & 58), Commonwealth (02 9512201 to 09), E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave. (02 7263747, 02 7262709, 02 7260569), Kalookan (02 3649093 & 02 3666547), Makati (02 8933820 & 02 8140803), Manila Bay (02 5561579, 02 5561485), Pasig (02 5716870 & 78), Shaw (02 7181834 & 02 724 8901), Cabanatuan (044 4635248 & 02 463 0089), Dagupan (075 5171717 & 075 5178888), Laguna (02 5206725 & 049 4111060), Naga (02 6642173 & 054 4723577), Pampanga (045 9613573 & 045 8605971).

The Suzuki APV Type II SGX , a 7-seater family van, was recently chosen as the “2009 Van of the Year” by local automotive publication, C! Magazine. The Suzuki Alto, meanwhile, has recorded worldwide sales of 10-million units, and is the best-selling car in India with an average of 20,000 units sold monthly.

In the Philippines, Suzuki is the only integrated automotive brand selling both automobiles and motorcycles through a nationwide dealer network.

First introduced in 1979, the Suzuki Alto has established a solid heritage in many international markets through its proven fuel economy.  In the Philippines, the Suzuki Alto topped the Department of Energy’s 2008 fuel economy run by delivering 34-Km/L in a controlled environment.  Its rated fuel consumption is 17-Km/L on combined city and highway driving. With the ever-increasing fuel prices, the Suzuki Alto is a smart choice for practical motorists who wish to have a reliable ride that is also easy on the pocket. 

One of the most popular compact cars worldwide, the Suzuki Alto is recognized for its fuel efficiency, stability and affordability.  It is powered by a sophisticated 796cc, 32-bit computer-controlled three-cylinder, 12-valve engine that delivers maximum output of 47hp @ 6,200rpm and maximum torque of 62Nm @ 3,000rpm, making it the perfect city car for zipping around crowded metro streets.

Its compact dimensions (L=3495mm, W=1495mm, H=1455mm) make the Suzuki Alto an extremely nimble and agile vehicle, with its small 4.6m turning radius giving it a definite advantage in tight parking spaces.

Comfortably seating four adults, the Suzuki Alto can be handily converted to carry small cargo through its 50-50 fold-down rear seats.  Safety features are not compromised, with 3-point ELR seatbelts, third brake light, side impact beams and childproof rear door locks.

Available in two variants, the Suzuki Alto Deluxe and Suzuki Alto Standard sport a 5-speed manual transmission, rack-and-pinion steering, McPherson strut with anti-roll bar on the front suspension and 3-link rigid suspension with coil spring on the rear, as well as front ventilated disc brakes and leading/trailing drum rear brakes.  Designed for durability, these features allow the Suzuki Alto to deliver solid and reliable driving performance on Philippine road conditions.

Thoughtful amenities include an in-dash CD audio system, powerful airconditioning, a headlamp leveling device, front cupholders, and a cargo cover.  Exterior features include multi-reflector halogen headlamps, multi-reflector taillights, and rear wiper-washer. The Suzuki Alto Deluxe variant also has electronic power steering, front power windows, power door locks, and color-keyed bumpers.

Possibly the most affordable Japanese sub-compact in the Philippine car market, the Suzuki Alto Standard, priced at P369,000.00, comes in Superior White, Virgin Blue Metallic, and Silky Silver Metallic.  The Suzuki Alto Deluxe is priced at P408,000.00 and comes in an additional color, Bright Red.

According to Mr. Hisashi Sunaga, Suzuki Philippines general manager for automobile sales and marketing, “Suzuki has long specialized in compact vehicles with excellent fuel efficiency.  With the current economic conditions and the increasing fuel prices, the Alto is a smart choice for the urban motorist, as proven by its strong sales performance in Europe and other global markets.” 

In its 30-year history, the Suzuki Alto has sold over 10-million units worldwide — testament to its solid performance and universal appeal.  It has a strong following in Europe, particularly in Italy, Germany, the Netherlands and England, and is currently the best-selling car in India, with sales averaging 20,000 units monthly. 

Suzuki’s worldwide vehicle sales topped 40-million units in June 2009.  It is one of only two automotive companies which registered a profit in 2008, posting 30-billion yen in net earnings from its worldwide operations, the largest such earning among automotive companies.  It also takes pride in its unbroken track record of consistently profitable operations for the past 30 years, never registering a loss in its annual financial reports.

Globally, Suzuki employs over 45,000 people, has 35 main production facilities in 23 countries, and distributors in 192 countries.  Its manufacturing philosophy is grounded on providing value-packed, high-quality products offering both reliability and originality.  Suzuki R&D efforts are devoted to creating products that will meet the challenges of the next generation.

The new look of the Suzuki Raider R150 has revolutionized how motorcycles should be created and takes the rider one step closer to riding a true racing bike, the Suzuki GSX-R. Inheriting the looks of its more powerful big brother, this trailblazing sport underbone bike has been radically redesigned for a more edgy, race-track feel, in keeping with its GSX-R lineage.

The Suzuki Raider R150’s powerful twin-cam, 4-valve, 6-speed, 150cc engine delivers a class-topping maximum power of 16hp @ 9500rpm with maximum torque of 12.76Nm @ 8500rpm. Its lightweight frame (105kg), combined with telescopic front and rear mono-shock swing-arm suspensions, makes the Suzuki R150 one of the best road-handling bikes as well.

Suzuki reaches out to tricycle operators

Suzuki Mola Bira, Bida Ang Toda includes a service campaign offering free service check-ups for Suzuki motorcycles/tricycles. Participants get free engine oil plus snacks and give-aways.

Suzuki, one of the country’s leading motorcycle brands, is reaching out to tricycle drivers and operators with its Suzuki Mola Bira, Bida ang Toda provincial roadshow. During the three-day campaign, tricycle drivers and operators are treated to a fiesta-like celebration which includes a stunt show, fun games, trike-khana challenge, a talent contest dubbed as Talentadong TODA, as well as a safety riding and preventive maintenance seminar.

Suzuki owners get free engine oil plus snacks and give-aways when they avail of the service campaign which includes free oil change and service check-up. Several test units of the Suzuki Mola 150 and Suzuki Mola 125 are also available for test rides.

According to Suzuki president Satoshi Uchida, “Because tricycles are the most common means of public transportation, especially in the provincial areas, we would like to reach out to tricyle drivers and operators through the Suzuki Mola Bira, Bida Ang Toda program. As transport operators, we want to help enhance their safety and preventive maintenance awareness through our seminars. At the same time, we want to show our appreciation by entertaining them with our games and contests.”

The Suzuki Mola models are four-stroke motorcycles designed specially for the heavy-duty requirements of tricycle operators and delivery services. These livelihood models have been upgraded to make them more powerful and more durable.
Stylish decals and sporty mufflers give the Mola its distinctive look, and muffler guards thoughtfully protect passengers from accidental burns. The front and rear fenders are painted for improved rust resistance, giving long-term value to the Mola.

The Suzuki Mola 150 is powered by a fuel-efficient 145cc four-stroke air-cooled engine that delivers up to 67km/li, making it one of the most economical motorcycles for business use. The Suzuki Mola 125, meanwhile, features a 124.5cc four-stroke engine compliant with Euro 1 emission standards.

The first leg of the Suzuki Mola Bira, Bida ang Toda campaign, kicked off in Cabanatuan City last August 5 to 8, 2009 in partnership with Royce Motorcycle Trade Corporation. Other legs are scheduled for Tuguegarao, Bulacan, Zambales, Balayan, Lipa City, Roxas City, and Nasugbu. Interested tricycle drivers and operators may see posters and print ads for details.