Report - Maruti working on low-cost hybrid technology for Alto, Swift

23/09/2014 - 15:32 | Maruti Swift, Maruti Suzuki | Anjan Ravi

To be offered in cars right from the Alto.

In a bid to improve the fuel efficiency of its cars, Maruti Suzuki, India's largest carmaker, is working on affordable and low-cost hybrid technology. Over the next three to four years, the carmaker wants to introduce hybrid technology from the entry-level Alto till the Swift.

Maruti Swift Range Extender front three quarter right live — The development work on Maruti's low-cost hybrid system is in the advanced stages.

According to sources who spoke to Economic Times, the development is in an advanced stage. A large portion of the work is being done in Japan, though Indian inputs are also being taken into account. Fuel efficiency gains in the range of 20 to 30 percent are being targeted.

Suzuki SX4 hybrid at the 2010 Delhi Auto Expo — Maruti has showcased several electric and hybrid vehicles at motor exhibitions. Seen here is the SX4 Hybrid Concept at the 2010 Delhi Auto Expo.

Maruti's chairman, R C Bhargava, told the newspaper that he believes a low-cost hybrid system for small cars is necessary, and the company aims to recreate what it did with the AMT system. The AMT (automated manual transmission) adds the convenience of a clutch-less drive, yet it does not compromise on efficiency, and is only marginally pricier than a manual.

Maruti SX4 hybrid front — The report says that the carmaker seriously believes in making hybrid technology affordable to masses.

Also Read: Maruti Swift Range Extender (Hybrid) showcased at Auto Expo

Under the proposed National Mission for Electric Mobility, 1.4 million electric and hybrid vehicles would be sold in 2020, and a minimum of 0.4 million tonnes of liquid fuel will be saved.