Suzuki is to showcase its hybrid technology in Europe for the first time, when the doors to the 80th Geneva Motor Show open on March 2, 2010.
It will be the first time a Swift concept with a plug-in hybrid system has been shown to a European audience with the motoring press getting a sneak preview before the show opens its doors to the public on March 4.
The carmaker says its Swift Plug-in Hybrid will be ideal for drivers who travel low mileages every day and is designed to be driven primarily on electric power with its compact 660cc petrol engine used as a back up. It is also equipped with a generator to quickly charge the lithium-ion batteries when capacity level drops. Further recharging when parked is by means of a simple domestic plug socket.
The Swift plug-in Hybrid differs from some other hybrid vehicles as it relies on its 54Kw (73PS) electric motor to travel distances of up to 20km; resulting in greatly reduced emissions. The type of small cubic capacity petrol engine used for the Swift Hybrid is similar to that fitted to Suzuki’s compact dimension and low tax ‘Kei’ cars in Japan; a sector where Suzuki has much experience and success.
No details have yet been released on when and if the Swift will reach full production.
However the carmaker is taking a leap forward into the larger ‘D’ segment; with the exhibition of the Kizashi Saloon for the first time in Europe. The Kizashi is the new flagship vehicle in the Suzuki range and will be on sale in the Swiss market this year. The Kizashi recently went on sale in Japan and North America and will also be launched in Australia in May.
The Kizashi Sports saloon is powered by a 2.4-litre petrol engine with latest design CVT transmission and intelligent i-AWD four-wheel drive technology as standard equipment.
The Geneva show will also premiere some styling changes to the carmaker’s highly successful three and five door Grand Vitara models with both models now incorporating a redesigned tailgate without spare wheel. The new more stylish shape will make the vehicle more suitable for city driving, Suzuki promise without compromising the original lifestyle and 4×4 capability of the model. The 2010 Grand Vitara without rear mounted spare wheel will be on sale in the UK in July.
