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Saturday, December 03, 2011

Suzuki Plans Electric Car Launch In India

The Japanese auto maker, Suzuki Motor Corporation is mulling over the option of launching electric vehicles in India in the near future. However, they see the major challenge in introducing them is the current lack of sufficient infrastructure. Apart from this with more and more rise in petrol prices, the company has declared to introduce more and more diesel engine options in their cars for the Indian market.

    “It is under consideration to launch electric vehicles in India. We cannot tell you what are the specifications. There is possibility, but the only problem is infrastructure in terms of electric plugs,” Toshihiro Suzuki, Executive General Manager (Corporate Planning Office), Suzuki Motor Corporation, said.

He also added that currently, the company is facing difficulties in introducing alternative fuel powertrains like CNG and LPG in the Indian market due to the lack of proper infrastructure. Mr. Suzuki added that even in CNG models, there is a limitation in the number of gas stations. Thus, it clearly gives us a hint at the scale of difficulties the company will face in introducing CNG models. For this reason, he declined to give any proper timeline on the introduction of these models in the market. Suzuki Motor Corporation showcased the Swift electric hybrid and the new version of Alto, the Alto Eco at the ongoing Tokyo Motor Show. The Alto Eco created some sensation among the people due to the company’s claim of the car returning a class leading fuel efficiency figure of 32 kmpl. The JDM Suzuki Alto was spotted in India, with HR26 plates.