Suzuki Japan is Aiming to Make Alto Even Lighter and Cheaper

On Wednesday, Suzuki Motor Corporation outlined its plan to prioritize lightweight body structures and small batteries for its vehicles, including electric models, across various markets. The Japanese automaker emphasized that compact and lightweight vehicles significantly reduce CO2 emissions both during use and production, aiding in resource conservation and CO2 reduction. This strategy is part of Suzuki’s technology roadmap for the next ten years.

Suzuki aims to advance its ‘HEARTECT’ lightweight and safe body technology while minimizing energy consumption through weight reduction techniques. The company seeks to offer the most energy-efficient electric and hybrid vehicles based on regional renewable energy ratios and usage conditions.

In pursuit of this goal, Suzuki plans to reduce the weight of its small Alto hatchback by 15 percent over the next decade, targeting a 100 kg reduction from its current weight of 680 kg. Smaller motors and batteries from these weight reductions are expected to lower the prices of Suzuki’s models.

Furthermore, Suzuki is developing software and advanced driver assistance technologies to ease traffic congestion. The automaker also aims to create an affordable system for software-defined vehicles (SDV) that minimizes energy consumption, making software updates user-friendly with a combination of wired and wireless (OTA) methods.

Suzuki introduced a high-efficiency Z12E engine in 2023, focusing on improved combustion. The company plans to expand the use of this engine globally and reduce energy consumption through carbon-neutral fuels and next-generation hybrids.

Additionally, Suzuki plans to achieve minimal energy consumption through a circular economy approach. This involves designing products for easy disassembly, recycling, and reuse, thereby conserving resources. The company will also share hardware and reuse software to cut component and development costs.