Toyota-Suzuki Alliance to roll out Electric and Hybrid cars

According to a media report, the Toyota-Suzuki alliance is planning to launch electric and hybrid cars in the Indian market that will be shared between the two brands. These are likely to include four electric vehicles (EV), which are expected to debut around 2020-21, while models like the Baleno, Vitara Brezza and Corolla are likely to get hybrid options.

Maruti Suzuki is reportedly testing a full-electric version of the Wagon R featuring a 72 V system with a 10-25 kWh battery. The car is expected to be showcased at the Move Summit to be held from September 7-8 in New Delhi. Reports suggest that around 50 prototypes of the Wagon R EV have been built and are currently being tested in Mumbai and Bangalore. Toyota could also launch a re-badged version of the Wagon R EV.

While the Corolla could use a 72 V hybrid setup, the Baleno and Vitara Brezza might get a 12 V hybrid system featuring a lithium-ion battery pack. These could be updated to 48-72 V once revised corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) rules come into force in 2023.

It is said that the electric vehicles could be built at Maruti's Gurgaon plant, while the hybrid models are likely to be manufactured at Suzuki's Gujarat facility, where the company will also setting up a lithium-ion battery unit.

Source: Economic Times