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Suzuki unveiled a petrol-electric
concept variant of its Kizashi sedan at the company's 2011 New York
International Auto Show (NYIAS) this evening. With the moniker Kizashi
EcoCharge Concept, this innovative and eyecatching four-door further
illustrates Suzuki's global eco-mobility story, and accentuates the
company’s effort in socially-conscious motoring. “We are continuing to
study the virtues of the gas-electric technology found in the Kizashi
EcoCharge Concept,” said Steve Younan, director of automotive marketing
and product planning for American Suzuki Motor Corporation. “Our basic
concept was to attain substantial gains in fuel economy without the
traditional sacrifices in drivability required with today’s mid-size
hybrid sedans. The proof of our concept is that the Kizashi EcoCharge
has the capability to deliver a 25% fuel economy gain in real-world
driving through an electric charge to the powertrain system while still
retaining the production Kizashi’s dynamic handling and braking
advantages that make it a standout category performer.”
Kizashi Powertrain
Electrification
The Kizashi EcoCharge Concept derives power from a 2.0-litre inline-four
gasoline engine, working in tandem with an advanced electric propulsion
system, which consists of a liquid-cooled 15-kW motor/generator unit
tied to a 115-volt air-cooled lithium-ion battery. The combination
optimises fuel economy and delivers an electric power boost during
acceleration for a more spirited driving experience. The Kizashi
EcoCharge Concept delivers a 25% lift to highway fuel economy over
today’s Kizashi.
To help maximise efficiency, the
Kizashi EcoCharge Concept also utilises numerous fuel-conserving
technologies, including regenerative braking, automatic engine shut-off
when the car comes to a stop, fuel cut-off during deceleration events
and low-rolling resistance tyres Power management is provided via an
advanced six-speed automatic transmission designed for smooth operation
and a seamless flow of power when called upon by the driver.
Simple, But Striking
Exterior Styling
The exterior of the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept is highlighted by a unique
luminescent white satin paint design with a subtle blue undercoat. To
further set the concept apart from its production Kizashi sibling, it
has been given a specialised headlight treatment, as well as LED
foglight illumination integrated into the front fascia. The lightweight
aluminium wheels communicate a futuristic feel, and are wrapped in
lowrolling resistance tires.
Eco-friendly Interior
Within, the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept utilises advanced seat materials.
These materials require 84 percent less energy to produce, and create 80
percent fewer emissions than virgin material production.
Kizashi EcoCharge Concept
Specifications
Engine
Type: J20B DOHC I-4
Displacement (cu in / cc): 1,998
Valvetrain: Intake-VVT
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 144 / 106 @ 6500 rpm
Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm) 127 / 173 @ 4500 rpm
Fuel economy target (Hwy): 25% improvement over production Kizashi
Transmission
Type: 6-speed automatic
Electric Drive System
Type: Belt-driven, liquid-cooled induction motor/generator unit and
lithium-ion battery system; air-cooled power electronics and battery
pack
Maximum electric generating power: 15 kW @ 1,570-3,180 rpm
Maximum electric motor power (electric assist): 15 hp / 11.2kW @
1000-2200 rpm
Lithium-ion battery: 115V, 0.5-kWh, 15 kW peak power
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