BMW and Suzuki are two big names currently displaying new hybrids at the New York International Auto Show.
Suzuki revealed its Kizashi EcoCharge concept. Given that descriptive name, no prizes for guessing that the Kizashi is a petrol-electric hybrid version of the regular saloon car. It uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine supplemented by a 20bhp electric motor. As with other hybrids, this is meant to improve performance and deliver better fuel economy at the same time.
The concept also uses a regenerative braking system, stop-start and low-rolling resistance tyres to get the very best economy out of the drivetrain. Continuing the green theme inside, the interior uses advanced materials that require 84 percent less energy to produce, according to Suzuki.
Also making an appearance in New York is BMW’s 5-Series plug-in hybrid, a car that is also starring at the Shanghai motor show. That’s appropriate, given that the BMW will be built in long-wheelbase form at a factory in China from 2013. The car will be based on the 5-Series long-wheelbase that has been built in BMW Brilliance Automotive’s Shenyang factory since 2010.
The 5-Series plug-in hybrid packs a 215 hp turbocharged petrol engine and an electrical motor with an output of 94 hp. The electrical motor draws its energy from a high-voltage battery housed in the luggage compartment, which can be charged via the mains power supply. Range on electric power only is 43 miles (at less than 40mph). |
Print
New york auto show welcomes new hybrids