Who needs competition? Japanese car makers are ruling the Tokyo Auto show and Suzuki surprised the onlookers on the second day with its Swift Hybrid model. Nissan GT-R was the show stealer on first day but Suzuki Swift Hybrid model had all the eyeballs on Day 2.
The Swift mainly uses its electric motor for short, low speed journeys. The petrol engine will then be used as a generator, so that as it runs it will charge the batteries. The Swift Plug-In is designed for short city trips with a petrol-driven generator in addition loading the battery of the electric engine. The battery can also be connected to an electric household socket for easy recharge. Suzuki has not yet revealed any official details about its performance, economy and fuel consumption but the car is expected to give a range of 20 km on one charge.
Maruti is also showcasing its SX4-FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle) with a a fuel cell unit designed by General Motors. The high-pressure hydrogen fuel tank has been designed by the Japanese manufacturer with additional energy coming from brake regeneration. It is currently carrying out field tests with the SX4 for possible serial production.
