Suzuki Motor Corporation has unveiled its powertrain roadmap for the next decade, incorporating internal combustion engines, battery electric vehicles, and hybrid technology. This strategy aligns with the company’s carbon neutrality targets, aiming to eliminate carbon emissions entirely in Japan and Europe by 2050 and in India by 2070. Suzuki’s multi-powertrain strategy underscores its commitment to both traditional petrol engines and the development of electric and hybrid vehicles.
As part of this roadmap, Suzuki plans to introduce new models with fuel-efficient hybrid engines and vehicles utilizing biofuel or e-fuel technology. The company believes that offering different powertrain options based on market needs and infrastructure will be a balanced solution for the automobile industry in the future. This plan will not only strengthen Suzuki’s competitiveness in global markets but also provide a new direction for environmentally friendly mobility in rapidly growing auto markets like India.
The Japanese automaker has confirmed its plan to introduce FFVs (Flex Fuel Vehicles) capable of using up to 85% bioethanol within this fiscal year, which ends in March 2026. Maruti Suzuki India began offering E20 bioethanol-compatible engines in April 2025.
The Maruti Wagon R flex-fuel prototype was first presented in December 2022, followed by presentations at the 2023 Auto Expo and the 2024 Bharat Mobility Global Expo. This is expected to be India’s first mass-market flex-fuel car, capable of running on ethanol-petrol blends between 20 percent (E20) and 85 percent (E95) fuel. This model has been developed by Maruti Suzuki engineers, with input from Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan.
Indo-Japanese automaker will implement its multiple powertrain strategy in India with the introduction of the eVitara electric SUV and the Fronx hybrid compact crossover in 2026. The Maruti Fronx will be the brand’s first hybrid offering, also marking the debut of the brand’s in-house developed strong hybrid powertrain. Reports indicate that Maruti Suzuki’s new strong hybrid system will be more economical than Toyota’s Atkinson hybrid powertrain. The automaker plans to include this new hybrid powertrain in its new generation Baleno, an economical mini MPV, and cars like the next generation Swift and Brezza.
