It is no secret that Maruti Suzuki India is looking at an electric future. Reports have already confirmed that the company will launch their first electric car in India by 2020. Maruti Suzuki will also convert their current cars into hybrid electric to meet the stringent emission norms of the future. But ahead of such cars getting launched, here is a sneak peek into the future from GIIAS.
The Suzuki Swift hybrid hatchback, which is already on sale in Japanese markets since June 2017, has now been showcased at 2018 GIIAS by PT Suzuki Indomobil Motor where it is branded as the Swift Strong Hybrid.
In terms of its exteriors, the new Swift Strong Hybrid looks identical to its conventionally powered counterpart on sale in India. Except for a new honeycomb mesh grille in the front and distinctive ‘Hybrid’ badging on its front fender.
Its interiors are seen with blue inserts on gear lever and a blue light above the MID on its instrument cluster while it is also equipped with lasers and cameras for better pedestrian detection along with dual sensor brake support for better braking control. A screen displays state of battery and electric motor and whether it is in charging or discharging mode.
Suzuki Swift Strong Hybrid is powered by a 1.2 liter, 4 cylinder VVT petrol engine offering 91 PS peak power along with a 10 kW electric motor. These two in combination power the front wheels via a 5 speed automatic manual transmission. The Swift Hybrid can also run exclusively on battery power though only for short distances and under low load conditions. It offers mileage of 32 kmpl.
Speaking about the development of hybrid vehicles in India, it is still at a very nascent stage. Just when the demand was growing thanks to increased awareness, there was a setback. The Indian Government had increased taxes on hybrid vehicles to 43% last year due to which the company had to increase prices of both the Ciaz and Ertiga SHVS by Rs 60,000. Hopefully in the next budget, these taxes are pulled back, to allow the growth of hybrid cars in India.