In this age of electrification, hybrid powertrains are emerging as great options for those who want high mileage and no charging issues
Recently, I got a chance to speak to Partho Bannerjee, Senior Executive Officer – Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. During my interaction, the executive shared his opinions about the hybrid versions of cars like the Swift and Baleno. As the market moves towards electrification, EVs and hybrids are two of the most prominent methods to achieve carbon neutrality. We see the number of EVs rise in India and around the globe. Nevertheless, strong hybrid mills can serve as a robust stepping stone for the transition from ICE to EV. Still, the customers have not really been all that welcoming towards strong hybrids in India.
Maruti Suzuki Boss on Swift, Baleno Hybrid Launch Prospects
As a part of my interaction with the top Maruti Suzuki official, I discussed a wide range of avenues for the brand’s future. Among other things, hybrid powertrains were a key point of conversation. When asked by me about the launch of hybrid iterations of cars like Swift, Baleno and Fronx, the Maruti official mentioned that the company is working on multiple technologies, including ICE, hybrid, CNG and electric. It doesn’t want to limit itself and wants to keep itself flexible according to the market requirements.
Similarly, he said that profitability and financial viability can only be the focus of the company after it ensures that the customers adapt to these technologies. We know that a price-conscious market like India can be challenging for automakers to introduce and educate customers about emerging new tech. Perhaps that is the reason why strong hybrid cars from Toyota, Maruti Suzuki and Honda have not been all that successful. The high initial cost is a prime reason why consumers often don’t understand the long-term mileage benefits of these cars.
Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Victoris Test Drive Review – Victory Through Value?
Editor’s View
Yatharth Chauhan, Managing Editor
I believe that cost will be an even more concerning matter in the segment of Swift, Baleno, Fronx, etc. Therefore, it will be extremely challenging to sell these cars in hybrid versions. Additionally, as I experienced on my first drive review of the Fronx and other Maruti hatchbacks, these are easily the most fuel-efficient vehicles in the market. Hence, customers already experience low running costs. That is also the reason why the real need for strong hybrid cars in this segment is not there. Still, we shall keep an eye out for more details in this regard in the times to come
Also Read: Maruti e Vitara Spotted with Black Edition Elements
