Maruti Suzuki’s New Hybrid Technology
Maruti Suzuki is working on a new “Series Hybrid Technology” that is set to be introduced in the Fronx Facelift. This development was announced last year, and the launch is expected by the end of this year.
Testing the Fronx Strong Hybrid
Recently, the test mule for the Fronx strong hybrid was spotted in Gurgaon. Currently, Maruti Suzuki offers two strong hybrid models: the Grand Vitara and the Invicto. Both of these cars use Toyota’s series-parallel hybrid system, which allows the engine and electric motor to work together or separately for better efficiency.
Understanding Series Hybrid System
In a Series Hybrid System, the engine does not drive the wheels directly; instead, it acts as a generator to charge the battery that powers the electric motor. This setup, also known as a “Range Extender Hybrid,” is designed to improve fuel efficiency, particularly in city driving, while reducing emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Upcoming Models and Engine Details
Maruti Suzuki plans to equip the Fronx with a new 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Z12E engine for this series hybrid system. Besides the Fronx, this hybrid technology may also feature in the new Baleno, a Spacia-based MPV (codenamed YDB), and the Swift. Additionally, a three-row version of the Grand Vitara (codenamed Y17) is also in the works.
Features and Expectations
The upcoming Maruti Fronx Hybrid is anticipated to have some cosmetic updates and new features compared to the current model. It is expected to achieve an impressive fuel efficiency of around 35-40 kmpl.
Future Electric Offerings
Earlier this year, Maruti Suzuki announced plans to launch its first all-electric vehicle, the eVitara, in March 2025. This move is significant as it expands the brand’s powertrain options, including petrol, CNG, mild-hybrid, strong-hybrid, and electric, catering to a diverse audience focused on fuel efficiency.
| Feature |
Details |
| Series Hybrid Technology |
Developing for mass-market offerings debuting on Fronx Facelift. |
| Current Models |
Grand Vitara and Invicto using Toyota’s series-parallel hybrid system. |
| Fronx Strong Hybrid |
Test mule spied in Gurgaon; expected launch by year-end. |
| Engine Type |
1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Z12E engine for series hybrid system. |
| New Models |
New Baleno, Spacia-based MPV (YDB), and Swift to feature hybrid setup. |
| Fuel Efficiency |
Expected 35-40 kmpl for Fronx Hybrid. |
| eVitara Launch |
First all-electric offering expected in March 2025. |
| Powertrain Options |
Petrol, CNG, mild-hybrid, strong-hybrid, and electric. |
