Maruti Suzuki plans REEV Light plug-in series hybrid architecture for compact vehicles
Suzuki has outlined specifications for an upcoming series-hybrid architecture called REEV Light that introduces external plug-in charging for compact models including the Fronx and Baleno.
- 29%
- 1.2 litres
- 3 cylinders
What Happened
Under the proposed REEV Light setup, an electric traction motor drives the wheels while Suzuki's 1.2-litre three-cylinder Z12E petrol engine functions solely as an onboard electricity generator. The system incorporates an external charging port and a moderate battery capacity tailored to daily commuting.
“For compact cars, we are preparing a series HEV that generates electricity from fuel and drives on the motor, and we will further evolve this series by adding external charging capability and a right-sized battery to create a light range extender. It will become a 'REEV Light' that does not carry an oversized battery yet lets you drive without worrying about the remaining charge.”
Engineering projections target an estimated 29 percent cut in vehicle carbon dioxide emissions across small vehicle platforms. The modular series hybrid is being engineered for high-volume entry and mid-tier models to widen electrified adoption across the Indian passenger vehicle market.
29%
Why this matters
The configuration targets a 29 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to conventional combustion powertrains without requiring heavy, expensive traction batteries. By pairing a small battery with an onboard generator, the system offers electrified urban driving alongside long-distance travel flexibility in charging-constrained markets.
Terms in This Story
- REEV
- Range-Extended Electric Vehicle, in which an internal combustion engine generates electrical current to sustain battery charge without driving the wheels directly.
- Series Hybrid
- A powertrain layout where only an electric traction motor is mechanically connected to the drive wheels.
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