Mazda's DNA in Mexico
¡Hola Amigos!
In October 2014, Mazda and MMVO (Mazda de Mexico Vehicle Operation) celebrated the beginning of the Mazda2 (Mazda Demio in Japan) production in Mexico. A newly constructed production plant in Salamanca, Mexico, MMVO is expected to play a key role in driving Mazda’s business growth strategy. The Mazda2 is a first mass-production model coming out of the MMVO.
To deliver the Mazda SKYACTIV models to more customers around the world, MMVO’s engine machining plant also began operation to support the Mazda2 production. The engine machining plant shares the latest production and manufacturing technologies with Mazda’s Hiroshima Plant, and is equipped with a highly efficient engine parts machining line capable of producing a wide variety of parts.
Fully committed to delivering high-quality cars safely and proudly to customers, MMVO is aggressively investing in facilities as well as in its own people. Tsuyoshi Kunobu is one of Mazda’s “master craftsmen” who was given an MMVO assignment. Now a resident of Mexico, Kunobu works tirelessly to transfer Japan’s specialty - outstanding craftsmanship and perfect attention to every detail, to local engineers with MMVO. Kunobu’s days at MMVO are spent teaching Mazda’s engine machining technologies and training the local engineers, but his real mission is to literally “transplant” Mazda’s commitment and passionate dedication to manufacturing. Outside work, Kunobu goes out with his fellow engineers to local bars and restaurants to enjoy local culinary traditions and even some dancing, to build a spirit of teamwork.
Mr. Tsuyoshi Kunobu
“My job is to pass Mazda’s manufacturing DNA on to our local people, so that the DNA will be deeply rooted at MMVO”, Kunobu says. “I want to see our local people taking active roles at an operational level. I’m training them as leaders so that one day, MMVO will boast higher quality standards than the Hiroshima Plant. My dream is to see them working as a strong leader, instilling Mazda’s manufacturing DNA in their team members.”
MMVO’s success definitely relies on Mazda’s “master craftsmen” like Kunobu. The new plant in Mexico is expected to set an example to Mazda’s other production facilities. Regardless of the location, Mazda is committed to pursuing excellent-quality car manufacturing, and aspires to make Mazda a unique and special automotive brand that delights each customer beyond expectation and makes his or her life truly rewarding.
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