Maruti, Toyota and Honda Cars To Soon Come With Full Hybrid Systems

by Vivaan Khatri | 25/03/2019
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Car manufacturers would put a strong focus on developing full hybrid models in India. Here are some models that are expected to go full hybrid in the upcoming time.

In the upcoming years, we will see the rise of full hybrid vehicles. Going full hybrid plays as a stepping stone for India to become a world-leading EV market. Besides planning for their far-future EVs, many car manufacturers, including Maruti Suzuki, Toyota and Honda, have also decided to take their time and is going to venture the hybrid segment beforehand.

Maruti and Toyota, after announcing their strategic partnership, will join forces to create new models. Moreover, they are going to work together in developing full hybrid systems. It is reported that Maruti will rebadge a number Toyota Corolla Altis sedans. On entering Maruti’s range, this sedan, which is currently available with internal combustion engine only, will go full hybrid technology. On the other hand, Maruti Ciaz is going to get the full hybrid treatment as a part of the cooperation. From Toyota’s side, in line with Maruti’s plan, the Japanese manufacturer will extend their hybrid range with the next-gen Corolla Altis and their version of the Ciaz.

Also ReadIndian and African Market To Get Toyota-badged Ertiga and Ciaz

The 1.5-litre K-Series petrol engine that is currently powering the Ciaz will be brought to the new-gen Toyota Corolla Altis. It is reported that Toyota is working on the hybrid version of this engine. Besides the new Corolla Altis, this engine will also take the powering job on the Toyota-badged Ciaz as well.

Toyota Corolla Altis front look

Toyota Corolla Altis is among the expected models to become full-hybrid 

Another car maker that will also join this hybrid trend is Honda. Honda is considering between two options, City and the Civic, for full hybrid treatment. Both of the two popular vehicles are going to the second generation soon. The inclusion of a new hybrid system will be an important generation change for either the City or the Civic. The existing Honda City has already available with a full-hybrid technology in the international market. Therefore, the new-gen City stands a higher chance of becoming a full-hybrid powertrain.  

Honda City front look

Honda City is likely to get a full hybrid system in the upcoming time 

Notably, all of these three manufacturers along with other carmakers in India are aggressively demanding for the bigger subsidy on the hybrid vehicles under the second-phase FAME scheme, as the current duty cuts of up to Rs 20,000 is not so encouraging.

Also Read - FAME II: Rs 1.5 lakh Subsidy On Electric Car Confirmed

With regards to the recently electric vehicle infrastructure in India, mainstreaming full-hybrid engines will be a more sensible solution, according to the carmakers. It might take years for the government to establish the groundwork and upgrade the charging infrastructure for EV-focused automobile industry. With a hybrid system which combines both ICE and electric motor, it provides a clean option while helping to prompt customers’ preference for electrified vehicles.

Rajesh Goel, Senior Vice President and Director for Sales and Marketing, has remarked hybrid as a “midway option” between internal combustion engines and electric vehicle in India.

In between ICE engines and electric vehicles, hybrid stands as a midway option as far as pollution concerns and fuel efficiency are concerned, and our headquarters is working on a product for the Indian market.

Be updated on the latest car news in India by visiting our website  IndianAuto.com

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