2011 New York: Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge Concept debuts next to Apex Concept like a Mr. Hyde
American Suzuki Motor Corporation unveiled its gas-electric hybrid concept of the Kizashi earlier today at the 2011 New York Auto Show. Debuting next to the Kizashi Apex Concept, the Kizashi EcoCharge shows Suzuki’s other efforts on the complete opposite spectrum, kind’a like a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde display.
Power is provided from a 2.0L I4 gas engine with a liquid cooled 15-kW motor/generator that stores its juice in a 115-volt air-cooled lithium ion battery. The projected result is a 25% increase in highway fuel economy over the current, standard Kizashi while also maintaining quick acceleration for a more spirited driving experience.
Regenerative breaking, engine auto-off at stops and fuel cut-off systems for deceleration events are all part of the package, including low-rolling resistance tires. Also equipped is a new six-speed automatic transmission.
Check out the high-res gallery and the press release after the jump.
2011 New York: Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge Concept:
All Photos Copyright © 2011 Nikolina Kostrevski – egmCarTech.
Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge Concept:
Press Release:
SUZUKI REVEALS KIZASHI ECOCHARGE CONCEPT
AT 2011 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
Innovative Gas-Electric Concept Leads Automaker’s U.S. Advanced Propulsion Strategy
NEW YORK (April 19, 2011) – American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) unveiled a gas-electric concept variant of its Kizashi sedan at the company’s 2011 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) press conference this evening. With the moniker Kizashi EcoCharge Concept, this innovative and eye-catching 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 percent 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-liter 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 optimizes fuel economy and delivers an electric power boost during acceleration for a more spirited driving experience. The Kizashi EcoCharge Concept delivers a 25 percent lift to highway fuel economy over today’s Kizashi.
To help maximize efficiency, the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept also utilizes 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 tires.
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 specialized headlight treatment, as well as LED foglight illumination integrated into the front fascia. The lightweight aluminum wheels communicate a futuristic feel, and are wrapped in low-rolling resistance tires.”
Eco-friendly Interior
Within, the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept utilizes 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 percent 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 |
– By: Chris Chin
