Maruti Suzuki had unveiled its strategy to bolster its alternative fuel lineup by introducing a range of new hybrid (mild and strong), CNG, flex-fuel, ethanol-blended fuel, biogas, and EV models. Regarding hybrid technology, the company currently employs a mild hybrid system in some of its existing models and Toyota’s strong hybrid tech in the Grand Vitara mid-size SUV. A recent media report suggests that the Indo-Japanese automaker intends to develop its own hybrid system for mass-market vehicles.
Maruti Suzuki Series Hybrid Tech
In contrast to Toyota’s series-parallel hybrid tech, Maruti’s hybrid system (codenamed HEV) is anticipated to be significantly cost-effective. It will utilize a series hybrid powertrain that receives mechanical power from the electric motor, powered by either a petrol generator or a battery.
The vehicle’s computer will determine the proportion of power from the battery or the generator. It can choose to exclusively use the battery pack to power the motor, thus preserving the engine for scenarios where it is more efficient. The series hybrid configuration is most effective in stop-and-go traffic situations. Read: 4 Upcoming Maruti Suzuki Cars In Next 12 Months
Upcoming Hybrid Models
Maruti Suzuki’s new HEV hybrid system will incorporate the brand’s new Z12E, a 3-cylinder engine (which will function as a generator), an electric motor, and a battery pack with a capacity of 1.5kWh to 2kWh. The Maruti Fronx facelift, scheduled for release in 2025, will be the first model to feature the brand’s new affordable hybrid system.
The same setup will also be integrated into the new-generation Baleno and the Spacia-based MPV in 2026, followed by the Swift hybrid in 2027 and the new-generation Brezza in 2029. The report further indicates that Maruti Suzuki aims to derive 25 percent of its total sales from hybrid vehicles by the end of the decade.
More details on the new Maruti Suzuki hybrid system and upcoming models are likely to be revealed in future. Stay tuned to IndiaCarNews.
