Maruti Suzuki Baleno’s Strong Hybrid version was recently spotted testing with strain gauges attached to its all four wheels around the Lonavala ghats in Maharashtra.
What Is Expected To Change?
Interestingly the design and style of the prototype are exactly the same as the existing model.
At the same time, the speculations are at their peak that the carmaker is testing the hatchback with a new powertrain.
With this in place, it could be a full-hybrid system developed under its partnership with Toyota or a BS6-compliant 1.5L diesel engine.
So far, Maruti Suzuki is the largest car manufacturer in the country with a variety of products in their portfolio.
With the increase in competition and changing trends, the carmaker is working on new products.
This seems to be the fruit of that initiative.
Prior to this, Maruti Suzuki had shared their plans for India and Strong Hybrid vehicles at the Auto Expo.
This latest move indicates that Baleno is probably going to be the first vehicle in Maruti’s stable to get a strong hybrid system in India.
Although, the current version also offers a mild hybrid system that just acts as a torque assistant at lower RPMs, and helps in boosting the fuel economy.
How Would This Help?
After the launch of the Strong Hybrid or fully hybrid system in Baleno, the electric motor will generate enough power to drive the vehicle for a very short range.
Unlike plug-in hybrid vehicles,
Also, there will be no need to recharge the batteries in a Strong Hybrid vehicle because Baleno Hybrid will work just like the normal smart hybrid system.
The best part about this implementation is that batteries will be recharged using the power that is generated while the car is driven around.
More Powerful Motor
According to the speculation, the petrol engine will continue to power the front wheels of the Baleno, while the rear wheels would get an electric motor in the hub.
This implies that it would be using a more powerful motor that can easily generate enough power to drive the car for around 25-30 kms.
Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid systems make more sense to a country like India, as our recharging infrastructure would take some time to develop.
But the implementation of the Strong Hybrid system in Baleno will definitely give a boost to the fuel economy of Baleno.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.