New vans will be fully mixed

If a scheduled launch is released, the Wagonr will be remembered as the world’s first mini-stage equipped with a full hybrid system

For several years, vans have been on the list of best-selling cars in India. Tall boys hatch are preferred for its reliable performance, high fuel efficiency and spacious interior. Suzuki is currently developing a new model, which is expected to be launched in Japan later this year. Reports show that new vans can be fully hybridized. Let’s uncover the details.

New Wagonr fully hybrid powertrain, features

Suzuki’s powerful hybrid setup for the new van will take advantage of the combination of drive motors currently used with the Solio and AGS (Automatic Gear Movement). This is used in conjunction with the 660cc, inline 3, DOHC petrol engine. The gasoline engine produces 54 ps and 58 nm of torque. The motor contributes 10 ps and 29 nm and is connected by an electric continuous transmission.

In addition to the complete hybrid powertrain, the new truck will also undergo additional upgrades. For example, a standard rear door will be replaced by a sliding door. This change is in line with industry trends where other tall hatchbacks in Japan have begun to use sliding doors. It ensures easy access for passengers and also makes loading of all kinds of luggage and cargo easier. These seats will be highly customized, allowing users to configure them as needed.

Size-wise, Japan’s new truck is expected to be 3,395 mm long, 1,475 mm wide and 1,650 mm high. The hatchback has a wheelbase of 2,460 mm, while the vehicle weighs 850 kg. Japan’s new strong truck is expected to be offered at a price of 1.3 million yen, about 7.65 lakh rupees. The highest version costs about 1.9 million yen (Rs 1.119 lakh).

Mixed trucks in India

For the Indian market, Maruti said earlier that it is developing a new affordable hybrid system. This will be used for its smaller cars such as Wagonr, Swift, Dzire, Fronx, etc. The Maruti’s affordable hybrid setup will likely work with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder petrol engine. While the Maruti may be able to use Toyota’s hybrid technology from Toyota, it will be expensive for Maruti’s smaller cars. That’s why Maruti develops its own cost-effective hybrid solution in-house.

Maruti’s plan to introduce hybrid technology to its smaller cars will also depend on government policy. As of now, electric cars have more power than hybrids. For example, the GST rate of electric vehicles is 5%. Additionally, many states declare full or partial exemption of road/registration tax on electric vehicles. All-electric vehicles also benefit from subsidies under II.

In contrast, the powerful hybrid attracted a higher GST rate of 28%. There is also an additional compensation that increases the tax burden to about 43%. The hybrids also received no tax exemptions or subsidies. There are only a few exceptions in Uttar Pradesh, with registration tax exemptions for powerful hybrids announced in 2024. Some other states may follow a similar approach. However, to bring a lot of impetus to powerful hybrids, incentives should be obtained nationwide.

source