As reported last year, Maruti Suzuki is developing a “Series Hybrid Technology” for its mass-market offerings and it will debut on the Fronx Facelift. Recently, the test mule of the Fronx strong hybrid spied testing in Gurgaon ahead of its expected launch by year-end.
Currently, Maruti Suzuki has two strong hybrid models in its portfolio: Grand Vitara and Invicto. Both models use Toyota’s series-parallel hybrid system, which combines both series and parallel hybrid functions. Having said that, the engine can either drive the wheels directly or charge the battery, depending on the driving conditions. This means the electric motor and engine can work independently or together, optimising efficiency. On the other hand, in the Series Hybrid System, the engine doesn’t directly drive the wheels. Instead, it works solely as a generator to charge the battery to provide power to the electric motor, which is actually the only source of propulsion. This setup is also called “Range Extender Hybrid”, which can potentially improve fuel efficiency, especially in city usage, and reduce emissions compared to traditional ICE vehicles.
Maruti Suzuki is reported to use the brand’s latest 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Z12E engine with its series hybrid system. Apart from the Fronx, this new hybrid setup is also expected to power the new Baleno, a Spacia-based MPV (codenamed YDB), and Swift.
Maruti Suzuki is also expected to introduce a three-row version of the Grand Vitara (codenamed Y17); however, it will continue with Toyota’s more advanced series-parallel hybrid system.
Speaking of the upcoming Maruti Fronx Hybrid, it is expected to boast a few cosmetic changes over the ongoing model and a few new features. It is likely to claim a fuel efficiency of around 35-40 kmpl.
In other news, Maruti Suzuki is set to launch its first all-electric offering, the eVitara, in March 2025. With this launch, Maruti will have extended powertrain options, including petrol, CNG, mild-hybrid, strong-hybrid and electric, thus catering to a wide section of the audience focused on fuel efficiency.
