Everyone is very excited about the launch of Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid at the Tokyo Auto Show 2011 in the last week of November. Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid is one of the highly anticipated vehicles to be launched this year. This hybrid vehicle is engineered for performance at economical mpg rating. The engine comprises both petrol as well as electric version. The ergonomically designed aerodynamic structure makes this car very easy to control and drive. Suzuki has used sophisticated technology for proper car tuning program to manufacture this vehicle. As far as the design is concerned, it is fitted with futuristic accessories. Let’s have a look what it is all about.

First Look
Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid has been remodeled completely to give it more aerodynamic and elegant look. It is fitted with new grille, aerodynamic cover mounting wheels and has large LED lamps at rear and front alike. The interior as aesthetically designed with awe-inspiring patch works on steering wheel and the dashboard. Two large digital screens are fitted within to monitor the power capacity of the battery. In addition, it has a new instrument panel and center console. This plug-in concept car was based on 2009 model with 658 cc engine that easily reaches a peak power of 54-74 bhp and resembles its other conventional models. Insulated upholsters are fitted tightly and are elegant in design. Dashboard and sun visors are very durable and strong. The overall look of the car is compact, trendy and captivating.
The machine
This five-door electric hybrid hatch is all set to roll in the market in 2013. Industry insiders revealed that the system that will drive this concept car is the one used in Chevrolet Volt. Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid is a compact electric vehicle with an engine-driven generator. It can travel 12.4 to 18.6 miles on battery power alone and can extend its range using an engine driven generator. It runs on the battery first and then utilizes the petrol when battery is exhausted. With superior quality battery installed, Suzuki Swift EV hybrid can run up to 30 km on battery power alone. The compact size of battery ensures that it charges quickly, costs less and occupies lesser space. Officially specifications about the Hybrid are not announced but it is believed that the specifications of it will be the same as of Swift Plug-in concept introduced three years ago in Tokyo Auto Show 2009.
What’s Good?
The fuel economy of Swift EV Hybrid is excellent as this powertrain consumes 3.2 liters/100 kilometer. What’s more? Well it has very low carbon emission as low as 70gm/kg which is below the recommended levels. The user-friendliness and brisk performance is the USP of this car. It is fitted with lithium-ion compact batteries fitted in the cargo or load area just behind the seating space to achieve good weight distribution. This concept car is considered as one of the cleanest, most fuel-efficient vehicle in the world. Moreover, if one wants to travel short distances then this car is just perfect as it can go till 30 kms on its electric engine.
What’s not so good?
The model of this car resembles its predecessors in design which dampens its value a bit for people who already own a Swift. The leather seats are not of optimum quality. Swift EV Hybrid is best suited and rightly focused for city driving only where one has to cover small distances. For long distances it may not suit one well as its driving range of 30km on electric engine seems tiny in front of 160km range of the Nissan Leaf. To keep the price low several features have gone missing on this powertrain.
Accessories
Swift EV Hybrid will be installed with futuristic accessories like LED on both front and back, large digital displays to monitor different processes. The wheels are green in color giving it a more go-green effect. A new grille has been fitted on the front with battery attached on the back. In addition, the car will be fitted will be fitted with all standard accessories when it comes on road.
Things to watch out for
This concept car has created a buzz in the market for its Q-concept technology and distinct features. The design is ergonomically created with proper blending features if a motorcycle owing to which Swift EV Hybrid can run at high speeds effortlessly. It also boasts of automatic transmission and outstanding glasswork. The advanced carbon emission prevention technology makes this car score very low in carbon footprint. Inside it has strong chassis, retractable seats and the drag-in engine coefficient is also low to deliver a comfortable ride even in the harshest weather conditions.
Price and availability
The price of Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid Concept has not been decided yet. This car will hit brick and mortar shops in the year 2013.
Bottomline
Suzuki Swift EV Hybrid Concept is a cheap hybrid vehicle for masses. For smaller distance travel this car is best as you won’t require any petrol to reach your destination. So if you were looking for a elegant ride with aerodynamic design, eye-catching look, outstanding fuel economy and comfort at a reasonable price, then do for this hybrid hatch.