Maruti set to reveal future game-plan at Auto Expo 2018

Homegrown domestic Auto major Maruti Suzuki is planning to make a powerful statement for its future product offerings at the Auto Expo 2018. The company today has announced that it will showcase concepts for cleaner technology along with its future compact vehicle design.

Built around its theme of ‘Transformotion’ the Maruti Suzuki pavilion will be spread over 4200sqmt. It has revealed that its largest vehicle display will have a spectacle of over 18 vehicle models on display in Arena, Nexa and Motorsports zones. The star attractions at the Maruti Suzuki pavilion is planned for include – concept Future S, concept e-Survivor, its next-gen hybrid vehicle and the launch the all new third-generation Swift.

The concept Future S is pegged as the showstopper for the 2018 Auto Expo by Maruti Suzuki, which it says presents an all ‘new design language’ for compact cars in India. Designed in-house by Maruti Suzuki designers, the Future S marks a big shift in the way compact cars are designed in India.

It will also showcase its first concept EV, the e-Survivor, which was showcased at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show.  The design study model for a compact SUV pays tribute to Suzuki’s proud 4WD heritage. The company says the reveal of the model at Auto Expo 2018 symbolizes its commitment to help develop the entire lifecycle of EVs in India including local manufacture of components, charging infrastructure and recycling of batteries.

The carmaker will also showcase a working model of the next generation Suzuki Hybrid system (HEV) that currently powers Suzuki Solio and Suzuki Swift cars manufactured and sold in Japan, it says is an efficient and low on emissions vehicle, with capability of pure electric drive.

The company will also launch the third-generation Swift is engineered with the best of Suzuki’s design capabilities and built on the innovative fifth generation ‘Heartect’ platform, which it says brings more strength and rigidity and helps to improve the power to weight ratio, leading to better acceleration performance for a peppy and fun to drive experience.

Commenting on the announcement Kavan Mukhtyar, partner and leader - Automotive, PwC India, said: "Indian EV market is picking up momentum. The government's mass procurement of electric vehicles is acting as a catalyst to activate the electric car market. We expect several OEMs to announce their EV plans over the next year."

"Maruti’s announcement will further accelerate the race to make EV options available to the customers. Increasing model options will have a positive impact on EV sales especially in the institutional market. Long term several enabling factors like customer acceptance, favourable regulations, charging infrastructure and reducing battery prices will be necessary for EV market to grow rapidly," concluded Mukhtyar.