Suzuki Swift Plug-In hybrid at Tokyo Car Show

Posted on October 21, 2009

Suzuki is unveiling a Swift with a Plug-In hybrid and a Suzuki SX4-FCW hydrogen drive under the slogan: ‘Small Cars for a Big Future’ at the Tokyo Motor Show .

The Swift Plug-In is designed for short city trips with a petrol-driven generator in addition loading the battery of the electric engine. The battery can also be connected to an electric household socket that gives the car a range of 20 km on one charge.

The model, which is just a concept at this point, uses a 660 cc engine, sourced from a kei car. The engine charges the lithium-ion batteries, which are placed between the front seats ‘“ we suspect they extend into the middle of the rear seat as well. The batteries power a 54 kW motor that moves the front wheels.

Suzuki is also showcasing the SX4-FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle) with a a fuel cell unit designed by General Motors. The high-pressure hydrogen fuel tank has been designed by the Japanese manufacturer with additional energy coming from brake regeneration.

Suzuki is currently carrying out field tests with the SX4 for possible serial production.