Suzuki Hybrid Technology Explained | Chapelhouse
At Suzuki, all their cars come as hybrid as standard - whether that's either mild hybrid, full hybrid, or plug-in hybrid.
Understanding each type of hybrid, how they work, and their separate functions can be difficult to your average motorist.
Here we're going to explain the differences and benefits of going hybrid with Suzuki.
Mild Hybrid Technology
Every hybrid system consists of an electric motor and battery. These store power to repurpose energy to aid acceleration and reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Unfortunately, they can be large and heavy.
This isn't ideal to be adding to a smaller vehicle, such as the Ignis or Swift. These city cars are designed to be compact and nimble, yet spacious inside for driver and passengers.
The hybrid system in these cars needs to be small and light too, so not to affect their speed and excellent fuel economy.
The Ignis and Swift both use Suzuki's 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine and are fitted with a lightweight motor and a 12-volt lithium-ion battery.
The dynamic Swift Sport is fitted with a 1.4-litre engine and a 48-volt battery.
The batteries are recharged when the car decelerates or brakes, and in turn, uses that energy to assist when accelerating or driving uphill. This is known as regenerative braking.
Essentially, mild hybrid technology allows you to drive you would in a normal petrol car but with great efficiency. There's no plugging-in required.
Full Hybrid Technology
Full Hybrid cars work similarly to Mild Hybrids. One of the few differences is that they use a larger electric motor and more powerful batteries.
These are more effective in mid-size Suzuki models, such as the all-new S-Cross, rugged Vitara SUV, and the Swace estate car.
Despite the motor and batteries being bigger and heavier, you won't notice thanks to the longer leg room and larger cabin space that the larger Suzuki models afford.
You will enjoy all the benefits of the Mild Hybrid cars, such as reduced fuel costs and lower CO2 emissions.
There is also the option to drive short distances powered solely by the electric motor in Suzuki's Eco-mode, making your journey even more efficient.
Plug-in Hybrid Technology
Plug-in Hybrid technology is used in Suzuki's largest model - the Across.
The large SUV requires extra energy for its powerful 2.5-litre petrol engine, so is fitted with a bigger motor and a 355-volt battery.
The Plug-in Hybrid requires to be connected to an external power source, such as a home charging point or a public charging station.
Eco-mode also lets you use the Across as an electric vehicle. It can achieve up to an impressive 46 miles of pure electric driving thanks to its powerful motor. This technology is ideal for short commutes or trips around town that may incur an emissions charge.
Not only does the Plug-in Hybrid system benefit you and your wallet, but pedestrians and the planet thanks to the reduction in carbon emissions. They are much cleaner than regular petrol and diesel cars.
Every new Suzuki model is fitted with a hybrid system. Now that is Good Different!
