Isuzu Consolidates U.S. Operations

CERRITOS, Calif., April 2 -- In a move to increase overall competitiveness in the SUV and diesel engine market, Isuzu has consolidated its U.S. operations. Effective April 1, American Isuzu Motors Inc., the U.S. distributor of the popular sport utility vehicles and diesel engines, and its parent company, Isuzu Motors America Inc., begin operating as one organization -- ``Isuzu Motors America'' (ISZA).

ISZA will be responsible for all facets of business in the U.S., including SUV, Powertrain, Engineering, Sales and Marketing.

The commercial truck sales and support operations, General Motors Isuzu Commercial Truck (GMICT) will remain outside this structure and operate as an independent unit.

In addition to strengthening the company's competitiveness, a company spokesperson said, the consolidation will also help Isuzu accomplish goals outlined in its V-Plan -- released last March -- which calls for creating a lean business structure free of redundancies.

``The goal of the V-Plan is to improve overall efficiency,'' the spokesperson said. ``The consolidation helps us to achieve that goal.''

Under the new organization, Mr. Kozo Sakaino will remain Chairman and CEO for the company as well as continue in his current role as Senior Managing Director for Isuzu Motors Ltd., Japan.

The current President of American Isuzu Motors Inc., Mr. Yasuyuki Sudo, will serve as an assistant to Mr. Sakaino. The current President of Isuzu Motors America, Inc., Mr. Toshio Maeda, will assume the position of Vice Chairman of ISZA.

The consolidation provided the opportunity for Isuzu to identify some of its strongest associates to lead other areas of the new organization.

Among several other management changes, J. Terry Maloney, the former Executive Vice President of Isuzu Motors America, Inc., will assume the position of President/COO for ISZA operations. He will also assume the position of Executive Vice President of the SUV division, formerly held by Duke Hale, who left the company to pursue other interests.