KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Maruti Fronx to debut Maruti's own hybrid system.
- Maruti's hybrid tech is a series hybrid setup.
- Maruti's hybrid system is cheaper than Toyota's Hybrid setup.
- Series hybrid uses engine to power electric motor.
- Maruti plans hybrid options for smaller car segments.
2025 Maruti Fronx: The upcoming Maruti Fronx facelift is reported to offer a hybrid powertrain. After the huge success of products like the Grand Vitara and the Maruti Invicto, Maruti is now planning to introduce its strong hybrid tech in smaller cars in its portfolio. While the bigger hybrid options such as Grand Vitara and Invicto are powered by the Toyota Hybrid System which is manufactured by Toyota itself. Check out more details below and join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay updated on the latest auto news.
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Maruti Fronx: First to Get Maruti's Own Hybrid System
The Maruti Fronx is going to be the Maruti's first product to be equipped with the brand's hybrid tech. The automaker has plans to use this hybrid tech in its upcoming smaller HEVs and mild HEVs so that it can have a decent proportion of hybrid vehicles across all categories in its portfolio. We can also expect the upcoming Baleno to feature the same hybrid tech.
Maruti Says Its Hybrid System is Different
A senior official mentioned in his statement that Maruti's hybrid system will have a different architecture than the Toyota Hybrid System (THS). This is because Toyota manufactures a series-parallel hybrid system and Maruti's tech will be a series hybrid setup. Maruti's own hybrid tech will be cheaper than the THS significantly.
What is a Series Hybrid Setup?
The Maruti Suzuki's hybrid system is technically called a series hybrid setup. Also known as a "range extender". In this setup, the engine essentially works as a generator and rather than directly powering the vehicle, it powers the electric motor by sending the electricity which ultimately runs the vehicle. In simple words, the powerplant keeps boosting the battery to run the vehicle.
After the introduction of its own hybrid powertrain, the Maruti Suzuki will have a wide range of powertrain options- petrol mild hybrid, pure petrol, petrol strong hybrid (series), petrol strong hybrid (THS), Pure EV powertrain and bi-fuel CNG-Petrol for all its category of cars in its portfolio.
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Verdict
Maruti Suzuki's introduction of its own series hybrid system in the upcoming Fronx facelift is a strategic move that could democratize hybrid technology for smaller cars. By offering a cheaper alternative to the Toyota Hybrid System, Maruti is expanding its eco-friendly powertrain options, positioning itself strongly in the hybrid market and catering to a broader range of consumers.
