Suzuki will introduce a new 48-volt
self-charging hybrid powertrain early next year, which will be offered in the
Swift Sport, Vitara and SX4 S-Cross models. The Japanese automaker claims that
their new hybrid powertrain will offer up to 20 percent lower CO2 emissions,
more torque and a 15 percent improved fuel economy in the WLTP combined cycle.
The new 48-volt hybrid powertrain will
directly replace the current 1.4-liter Boosterjet engine offering more power as
well, although the company didn’t share any numbers at this point. The newly
developed powertrain is very lightweight in its design, with the company
claiming a weight penalty of less than 15 kg. It consists of a 48-volt lithium-ion
battery, an integrated starter generator (ISG) and a 48V-12V converter. The
system will be attached to the new K14D Boosterjet engine, an improved version
of the outgoing unit.
he ISG is belt-driven and will assist
the petrol engine with extra torque from low down, offering 235 Nm from 2,000 rpm. The battery, together with the converter unit, will be located
under the front seats for better weight distribution. The upcoming 48V
self-charging hybrid system will also be able to use electric power alone at
city speeds below 16 km/h to further improve fuel consumption.
Suzuki will announce all the details
and specifications of the new 48-Volt hybrid versions of the Swift Sport,
Vitara and S-Cross in advance of their launch in Europe, which is planned for
March 2020.
