Tag Archive: hybrid

Suzuki launches the new Across

October 20, 2020
  • Suzuki’s first new model to launch under the collaborative agreement between Suzuki Motor Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation.
  • On sale in the UK in November 2020
  • Suzuki’s first plug-in Hybrid vehicle offering CO2 emissions of just 22g/km (WLTP)
  • Weighted combined WLTP fuel consumption of 282mpg (1litre/100km)
  • Combined power output of electric motors and petrol engine of 306HP.
  • Class leading EV range of 46 miles
  • 0-62mph in 6 seconds
  • One very high specification model available which includes E-Four electronic 4×4 system, leather seats, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, Dual Zone Automatic Air Conditioning, auto function opening tailgate and 9” multimedia touchscreen
  • Very limited supply availability in the first full year
  • Priced at £45,599
  • Low Company Car BIK Banding of 6 per cent. (2020/2021)
  • Metallic and Mica Paint available as a no cost option from a choice of six colours

Suzuki is launching the new Across in Autumn 2020, a robust and sporty SUV equipped with a sophisticated Plug-in Hybrid system and E-Four electronic 4×4, delivering uncompromising performance and efficiency with the capability and styling of a full-fledged modern SUV.

The Across is the first model supplied from Toyota Motor Corporation under the collaborative business agreement between Toyota and Suzuki. UK sales are set to start in November 2020 and followed soon after by the second new collaborative model, Swace, which is based on the Corolla Estate Hybrid and manufactured in the UK.

Striking SUV design
The bold and sporty design of the Across conveys confidence from every angle. Robust polygonal motifs across the body form a bold physique that is further highlighted by characteristic SUV wheel arch mouldings, a sporty large open grille and a front bumper with a prominent silver under garnish that helps to express the car’s all-round capabilities.

Further key features include sophisticated LED headlamps with a bi-beam projector (combining low and high beams) and an LED DRL. Premium quality 19-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard with black gloss coating and distinctive polished face.

Storage space
While cabin space is designed for ample comfort in both the first and second rows, there has been no compromise in luggage space. The large 490-litre* luggage compartment provides plenty of space to store luggage for a wide range of lifestyles and purposes. For added versatility, the right-hand side of the luggage compartment is equipped with a mains voltage (220V) electrical outlet and 12V accessory socket.

Body colours
The Across is available in six different colours – White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic,  Attitude Black Mica, Sensual Red Mica, Grey Metallic and Dark Blue Mica.

(Data correct as of October 2020)

Cutting-edge Plug-in Hybrid performance
The Plug-in Hybrid system in the Across provides unparalleled fuel economy and smooth acceleration, with CO₂ emissions of just 22g/km**.

At the core of the Plug-in Hybrid system is a powerful front electric motor that delivers vigorous torque at low speeds and combines with a powerful 2.5-litre petrol engine for rapid acceleration at higher speeds.

With maximum output of 134kW and 270Nm of torque, the front electric motor draws its energy from an 18.1kWh (50.9 Ah) high capacity lithium-ion battery mounted beneath the floor. This provides a class leading EV range of 75km (46.6 miles).

Engine
Paired to the electric motor is the A25A-FXS Dynamic Force engine, which functions as a charger for the battery and provides power assistance to the electric motor during high-speed driving if required. Designed to deliver both high output and excellent fuel efficiency, the engine features a long stroke and high compression ratio, and both direct cylinder fuel injection (DI) and port fuel injection (PFI) that vary depending on driving conditions to raise output and fuel efficiency while lowering emissions.

The Plug-in Hybrid system is equipped with four modes which are: Default EV mode, Auto EV/HV mode, HV mode, and battery charger mode which the driver can select depending on driving conditions and battery status. In EV Mode the vehicle is driven entirely by the power of the electric motor even under full acceleration. When in Auto EV/HV mode and HV mode, the engine contributes to power delivery when required, such as when the accelerator is pressed strongly. To store electricity for EV mode when the charge is low, the battery charger mode runs the engine to fully re-charge the battery. The powerful lithium-ion battery has 96 cells, voltage of 355V and a capacity of 50.9 Ah.

Advanced 4×4 capability
The state-of-the-art E-Four electronic 4×4 system in the Across provides drivers with genuine 4×4 performance as well as maintaining superior fuel efficiency.

The system features an independent 40kW rear motor that works in conjunction with the front motor to provide front : rear torque variation ranging from 100:00 to 20:80. Benefits of this system include enhanced stability during take-off on slippery surfaces such as snow covered roads, and confident handling when cornering on varying road surfaces.

AWD Integrated Management (AIM)
Central to the E-Four system is the highly sophisticated AWD Integrated Management (AIM), which controls not only drive force distribution, but also engine throttle control, transmission shift scheduling, Electric Power Steering (EPS) assistance and braking, according to the driving conditions.

Trail Mode
Trail Mode is an automatic limited slip differential control feature that ensures the best possible grip and control on slippery surfaces. The system works by applying the brakes to the wheels that begin to lose grip and redirects torque to wheels that maintain grip. The feature also adjusts the throttle and transmission shift pattern to keep the vehicle moving.

Advanced safety and technology features
Fully equipped with the latest smart safety features, the Across offers confidence and peace of mind for both driver and passengers on every journey. Some of the key safety features include driving assist functions such as Pre-Collision System (PCS), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), which use a millimeter-wave radar and monocular camera.

*Measured by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) method. **Measured on WLTP combined standard.

Suzuki launches the Swace

September 16, 2020

The Swace is the second vehicle to be supplied to Suzuki by Toyota Motor Corporation under a collaborative business agreement between the two companies. Sales are set to start in Europe this winter and UK specifications will be announced closer to the launch date.

Highlights of the new Swace

Dynamic and athletic exterior styling
Designed with a low centre of gravity, the Swace stands out with its wide stance and powerful rearward-flowing body lines, matched to a sporty front face with sharp bi-beam LED headlamps and large honeycomb-patterned grille.

Versatile interior design
Crafted with comfort and practicality in mind, the interior offers a feeling of open and comfortable spaciousness, and generous luggage capacity to suit a variety of lifestyles and recreational needs.

Advanced hybrid performance
Delivering optimal power distribution between the engine and motor according to driving conditions, the sophisticated hybrid system provides exhilarating direct-response acceleration while maintaining low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Dynamic and athletic exterior design
The exterior design of the Swace fuses stable and functional wagon styling with sporty aesthetics.

Its planted stance, condensed upper body proportions and flared bumpers convey on-road stability, while the dynamic rearward flowing lines in the windows and shoulders give an impression of athleticism.

The unique front-face design centres around its bi-beam LED headlamps and large honeycomb-patterned hexagonal grille. The headlamps and upper grille are placed in a single continuous curve for a sporty and wide appearance, while the bumper, lower grille and fog lamp bezel are positioned close to the ground, bringing further emphasis to the car’s planted posture.

Further exterior features include integrated roof rails for simple roof carrier mounting, a sculpted rear door that is constructed of lightweight resin to enhance fuel efficiency, and sporty and sophisticated 16-inch alloy wheels.

Body colours
The Swace is available in seven different colours – White Pearl Crystal Shine, Super White, Precious Silver, Black Mica, Dark Blue Mica, Phantom Brown Metallic and Oxide Bronze Metallic.

White Pearl Crystal Shine

Super White

Precious Silver

Black Mica

Dark Blue Mica

Phantom Brown Metallic

 

Oxide Bronze Metallic

 

Versatile interior design
A ‘less-is-more’ approach has been taken inside the Swace, with an elegant yet simple interior design that focuses on spaciousness, comfort and practicality.

Contributing to the sense of openness inside the cabin is a wide instrument panel designed with continuous lines that dynamically flow to the door trim. A combination of soft padding and chrome or silver accents throughout the cabin highlights the overall quality and elegance of the interior.

Interior functionality

The Swace is equipped with an 8-inch multimedia audio system with AM/FM/DAB radio, Bluetooth® function, and controls on the steering wheel for ease of use. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay for iPhone, as well as Android Auto™ and MirrorLink™ for compatible smartphones.
   
A Qi wireless charging pad is available in the front console to charge smartphones, along with two USB terminals and an AUX terminal within easy reach of the driver and front passenger.

Other key interior features include steering wheel and front seat heaters, an S-FLOW air conditioner system with occupant detection, and ambient lighting throughout the cabin.

Cabin comfort

The cabin offers versatility and comfort to support the active lifestyles of both its driver and passengers. With a generous tandem distance of 928 mm between the front and rear seats, the rear cabin comfort and legroom is one of the best in its class.
   

Front console tray with wireless charger (GLX)

Front cup holders

Centre console box

Rear centre armrest

Convenient storage spaces can be found throughout the cabin, offering ample room for storing small items such as phones and drinks in both the first and second rows.

Luggage space



Reversible deck board (resin side up)

2-way deck board in lower position

Rear seats folded

The large 596-litre luggage compartment provides ample room for a variety of luggage or recreational items. For added versatility, the rear carpeted floorboard can be placed in a lower position to store taller objects, and is also reversible with a resin backside that can be used for stowing wet or dirty items. The compartment can be easily expanded into a fully flat space by using the remote folding lever to fold down the second-row seats. Privacy needs are addressed with a detachable tonneau cover that can be retracted with a single touch, and the luggage compartment is equipped with auto-illuminating lights and a DC12V accessory socket for added convenience.

Hybrid performance

The Swace’s hybrid system combines a powerful electric motor with a 1.8 litre petrol engine exclusively designed for hybrid system use, delivering a seamless driving feeling with powerful acceleration as well as excellent fuel economy and low emissions. The hybrid system optimally drives the Swace with the motor, engine or both depending on driving conditions.

EV drive mode

Leveraging its high output motor and large battery capacity, the Swace is equipped with an EV drive mode function. In EV drive mode, the vehicle is driven solely by its motor with power supplied from the battery. This mode can be used for driving short distances without having to worry about noise or emissions, especially in residential areas early in the morning and late at night, or in garages and indoor parking lots.

Driving comfort
The Swace offers smooth driving comfort and stable, responsive handling with a low centre of gravity design and finely tuned suspension. The low hood and placement of the hybrid battery beneath the rear seats help give the car its low center of gravity, reducing body roll around corners, improving stability and contributing to a smooth and easy ride. The MacPherson strut front suspension and double wishbone rear suspension are designed for excellent handling stability and ride comfort. For further drivability, the drive mode select function allows the driver to choose from three driving modes according to their preference or driving needs.

Drive mode select
The drive mode select function allows the driver to adjust the vehicle’s performance to suit driving conditions. The Swace is equipped with three modes – NORMAL, ECO or SPORT.

NORMAL mode: Provides an optimal balance between ride comfort, stability and fuel economy, and is suitable for normal driving.    

ECO mode: Helps the driver accelerate in an eco-friendly manner and enhance fuel economy through more gradual throttle response and minimal air-conditioning use. This mode is useful during stop-and-go city driving.   

SPORT mode: Controls the hybrid system to provide quick and powerful acceleration, making it suitable for when agile driving response is desired, such as on winding roads.

Advanced driving assist function
Fully equipped with advanced safety features, the Swace offers confidence and peace of mind for both the driver and passengers on every journey.

Simple-Intelligent Parking Assist (S-IPA)
S-IPA assists the driver when reversing into a parking space, parallel parking, or departing from a parallel parking space, by providing audio and visual guidance while automatically operating the steering wheel. The system uses ultrasonic wave sensors for sensing and allows accurate parking even in narrow spaces.

Pre-Collision System (PCS)
PCS helps prevent collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists by monitoring the road ahead with a millimetre-wave radar and monocular camera and applying braking assist and automatic braking if needed.

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
When the LTA determines that an unintended lane departure is likely to occur on an expressway or marked public road, it assists steering operation to keep the vehicle in the centre of the lane.

Road Sign Assist (RSA)
RSA monitors the road for traffic signs and displays them on the multi-information display when they are detected.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
DRCC automatically maintains ample distance with the vehicle ahead, including stopping the vehicle when the preceding vehicle comes to a halt and following it when it restarts.

Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
BSM alerts the driver when a vehicle is approaching or detected in a rear blind spot.

Rear Crossing Traffic Alert (RCTA)
RCTA helps the driver avoid collisions when reversing out of parking spaces. When it detects a vehicle approaching in a rear blind spot, it warns the driver by sounding a buzzer and conveying the location of the approaching vehicle.

eCall
If the vehicle is involved in a traffic accident, the eCall system alerts emergency services with a phone message that includes the precise location of the vehicle.

Brake Hold
When the vehicle comes to a stop such as at a traffic light, the electric parking brake holds the vehicle by maintaining braking pressure to prevent the vehicle from rolling forward or backward until the driver presses the accelerator pedal.

Major Specifications


Swift Hybrid has a new Attitude

July 7, 2020

Suzuki GB PLC is pleased to announce further availability of its Special Edition Swift Attitude which is now Hybrid equipped and limited to just 350 cars.  The Attitude is based on the popular SZ-T model and offers a unique exterior design from its numerous styling upgrades. Swift Attitude offers good affordability and low running costs and is one of the most powerful and economical cars amongst its direct competitors.

In addition to the comprehensive SZ-T standard specification which includes air conditioning, smartphone link display with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, rear privacy glass and LED daytime running lights, Attitude adds mesh front grille with chrome trim, rear upper spoiler and front, side and rear carbon effect skirts.

With its unique to model styling upgrades and 1.2-litre Dualjet Hybrid engine, Attitude offers a sporting design and is ideal for younger buyers who may perhaps aspire to the 1.4-litre Sport Hybrid model in the future.

Attitude Hybrid is powered by Suzuki’s K12C 1.2-litre Dualjet four cylinder engine and 12 volt Hybrid system with an output of 90PS and is equipped with five speed manual transmission. It has a COemissions figure of 121g/km (WLTP regulation) and WLTP Combined fuel consumption is 52.7 mpg.

Suzuki pioneered the compact and low cost 12V Hybrid system in 2016 and it is ideally suited to its small cars such as Swift; the hybrid components add just 10kg to the overall kerb weight whilst reducing CO2 emissions by an average of 11 per cent.

The Hybrid system is a compact and lightweight unit that incorporates an Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) which acts as both a generator and starter motor. the ISG is belt driven and assists the engine during vehicle take off and acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking.

Until the end of September 2020 or when stocks run out, Swift Attitude is priced at £15,999 and available with a very attractive Zero per cent PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) offer too. A deposit of £2,312 is all that is required followed by 48 monthly payments of just £189 and a final optional payment of £4,615 to keep the car.

Swift Attitude is available in Fervent Red as a solid colour and Pure White, Premium Silver, Super Black, Speedy Blue, Mineral Grey and Burning Red as metallic colours as a £485 cost option.

Suzuki steps up its self-charging hybrid models

December 13, 2019

In line with continued plans to further reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel economy across its range of vehicles, Suzuki GB PLC is excited to introduce three 48-Volt Self-Charging Hybrid equipped derivatives to its range in Spring 2020 which will also include the launch of the new K14D Boosterjet petrol engine.

The new Hybrid Powertrain will be introduced for Swift Sport, Vitara and S-Cross models and offer up to 20 per cent lower CO2 emissions, a greater level of torque and 15 per cent overall improvement in WLTP Combined fuel consumption. These models will directly replace the current 1.4-litre Boosterjet derivatives with manual transmission.

Similar in basic principle to the 12V Hybrid SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) system that Suzuki pioneered in 2016 and fitted to all manual transmission models in the Ignis range and Swift SZ5 models, the newly developed 48V Hybrid Powertrain remains very lightweight in design and the components add less than 15kg to the overall weight of the vehicle.

The new and higher-powered Suzuki SHVS system consists of a 48V lithium-ion battery, Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) and 48V-12V (DC/DC) converter to power components requiring lower voltage including lights, audio and air conditioning. The ISG acts as both a generator and starter motor, is belt driven and assists the petrol engine during vehicle take off for a higher level of torque with 235Nm available from 2,000rpm.

The compact and high-performance lithium-ion battery stores electrical energy recovered from deceleration and braking and incorporates an idle stop function operated via the Integrated Starter Generator. This battery, along with the DC/DC convertor unit, are located under the front seats to assist overall weight distribution.

A further benefit of the new 48V Hybrid system is the introduction of electric motor idling when the clutch is disengaged and the engine speed is approximately 1,000rpm. This feature essentially replaces fuel injection with power from the electric motor to then control and maintain engine idling at vehicle speeds below 10mph and when stationary.

This function therefore eliminates fuel consumption under these conditions as engine momentum is electrically controlled by the ISG unit and the car is ready to re-accelerate on request with no engine restart delay.

Further detail and full specifications of the three new Hybrid models will be announced in advance of media and public launch which is planned for March 2020.

Hybrid News in Brief – Ignis

September 12, 2019

In line with plans to further reduce CO2 emissions across its range of vehicles, Suzuki GB PLC is pleased to announce the introduction of two further Hybrid grades for the Ignis range. Suzuki’s system is now available across all manual transmission 1.2-litre Dualjet models which are SZ3, SZ-T, SZ5 two-wheel drive and SZ5 ALLGRIP 4X4.

Suzuki is the pioneer of the compact low cost 12V Hybrid system which is ideally suited to a small car; its components add just 6.2kg to the overall kerb weight of 865kg for the SZ3 whilst reducing CO2emissions by an average of eight per cent.

The SHVS system (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) is a compact and lightweight unit that incorporates an Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) which acts as both a generator and starter motor, the ISG is belt driven and assists the engine during vehicle take off and acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking.

The system also uses a compact high performance lithium-ion battery placed under the front passenger seat to store energy and incorporates an idle stop function operated via the Integrated Start Generator. This in turn helps all Ignis manual two wheel drive models attain CO2 emissions of 98g/km (NEDC) and achieve a combined fuel consumption figure of 54.1mpg on the WLTP combined cycle. The SZ5 ALLGRIP is only just behind at 105g/km and 48.6mpg on the combined cycle.