Suzuki has announced plans for Range-Extender Hybrid with Plug-in Capability for Compact Cars

Suzuki Motor Corp has confirmed to bring a range-extender technology specifically for compact cars, thus developing an in-house series hybrid technology for a vehicle which can be charged externally. 

The proposed system is called “REEV Light”, which will utilize an electric motor to drive the wheels and use an engine to generate electricity when needed. Suzuki will be also incorporating a charging connection and a specific battery for the vehicle’s use, which will allow the drivers to plug in without depending entirely on the charging, specifically while charging for long highway journeys. 

Suzuki Range Extender Hybrid with Plug-In Technology: How it Works? 

REEV Light Technology is a further upgrade of the series hybrid concept as the series hybrid is capable of generating its own electricity from the fuel and does not require plugging in like traditional EVs. Thus the range extender will also provide an additional option of external charging. 

However, Suzuki has not confirmed whether REEV Light will use the Z12E engine, which is primarily used in Suzuki’s small cars. Suzuki is planning to develop both systems together, sharing core platforms and basic designs. 

However, in the case of smaller cars, the cost of adding a new engine, motor and battery is a potential hindering factor. However, the battery size is also building Suzuki’s approach. As per the company, vehicles should be optimally equipped with batteries, the customer genuinely needs, without adding extra weight and material cost of a bigger battery. 

Suzuki REEV Light System

Suzuki is planning to use external charging for REEV Light as it will supply electricity for trips within the battery’s range, while the engine could generate power for longer highway trips. 

The company has estimated that its compact-series hybrid could reduce CO2 emissions by about 29%, or roughly 300 Kg over 10,000 Km. However, Suzuki has not revealed the battery capacity, numbers or electric-only range for REEV Light. 

The development of REEV Light can also expand Suzuki’s powertrain options beyond petrol and CNG into hybrid and electric models. However, when the plug-in hybrid range-extender joins India, is uncertain at the moment.

Also check: Types of Electric Vehicles | BEV vs PHEV vs HEV vs MHEV