Hybrids have always been a formidable choice for users who seek eco-friendly mobility with minimal charging related challenges and range anxiety. For all such users Suzuki, is now planning an extensive Hybrid launch that could revolutionize the current scenario in the auto industry. As per an exclusive by Auto Car the brand has learned from the resolute sales record of the Grand Vitara Hybrid and are planning on using the learning for a future launch.
The Vitara Hybrid used the Toyota’s famed hybrid powertrain and accounts for about 15 to 20% of total Grand Vitara sales. The Brand has showcased extensive plans to bring in new Hybrid variants of cars such as the Fronx, Baleno, and Swift. Suzuki would not be using the Toyota’s Hybrid technology that it did earlier. Rather, the brand has been developing a new in-house cheaper Hybrid powertrain that is essentially a range extender. Codenamed HEV, these extenders would help the brand bring Hybrid features to their vehicles at reduced costs. Suzuki plans to manufacture Hybrid Powertrains at much lower costs than the series parallel and parallel only Hybrid powertrains.
Considering, that the Production of Hybrid powertrains has not been aided with any tax benefit and the high rate of 43% GST compared to that of 5% of EV’s is, Suzuki has found a solution with a series Hybrid model.
Series Hybrid model / Range Extender Hybrid
Series Hybrid models are generally cheaper to manufacture since the petrol engine that works in series with the Hybrid system only works as a range extender. The engine hence works only as a charger for the EV powertrain batteries that would power the electric motor. This is a much simpler powertrain than the complex Hybrid systems that the brand had launched earlier.
In such a powertrain the motor draws power from a generator run by the petrol engine to keep on recharging the batteries. Such systems help manufacturers in various ways. The most significant advantages would be the cost effectiveness of the solution, minimal maintenance costs, lower mechanical losses and optimized efficiency in city driving.
However, such Hybrid models can fail when driven on highways, parallel Hybrid models work better in long distance travelling.
Hybrid System Specifics
As per the exclusive by Autocar the Suzuki’s HYBRID system would use a Z12e, three cylinder engine, the compact Z12E would act as a generator to charge a 1.5-2KWH battery pack and an efficiency motor that drives the front wheels. The Hybrid Tech would be launched along with a new range of vehicles starting from the new Baleno, Swift as well as the Next Gen Brezza.
In accordance with the capabilities of the new Hybrid system, since it is only works to charge the EV batteries at a constant speed the cars using this technology are expected to churn out fuel economy to the tune of around 35 to 40 Kmpl- based on findings on the test cycle.
