The eVitara presented a few days ago is the first Suzuki 100% electric. An important step for the Japanese brand, which will also launch other battery-powered models in the coming years. Among these, however, there will not be Jimnyalways one of the most iconic Suzukis in the entire range.
A choice already made by the leaders of the Japanese brand, who – at least for the moment – do not want to change the spirit of the small off-road vehicle.
The Jimny must remain “true to itself”
Why will the Jimny never be electric? The reason was given by the president of Suzuki, Toshihiro Suzuki, according to whom the weight of the battery pack and the electric motors would “ruin” one of the main features of the Jimny, namely the lightness.
The impression, therefore, is that until progress in the technological field allows it, Suzuki will only fit internal combustion engines.
It must be said that these statements are in open contrast to what was announced in the 2023when in the presentation of its roadmap Suzuki had clearly included an image of an electric off-road vehicle with the unmistakable appearance of a Jimny.
Suzuki’s roadmap shown in 2023 anticipating the arrival of the electric Jimny
No to hybrids, yes to e-fuels
In addition to an electric version, Suzuki has also ruled out plans for a model hybrid based on the Jimny, regardless of the degree of electrification (mild hybrid, full hybrid or plug-in). No mechanical innovations on the horizon, therefore, for the off-road vehicle, which in the near future will continue to be sold in Europe as a two-seater light commercial vehicle, due to emissions regulations.
At the same time, the number one Japanese brand said that the Jimny of tomorrow could be powered with synthetic fuels o biofuelsbut in any case it will not give up the combustion engine. So we’ll see how it ends.
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Source: it.motor1.com
