Paris Preview: Suzuki to unveil the new Alto

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We knew it as a concept already but now we get the official pictures. Meet the Alto, Suzuki's smallest model outside Japan. The Alto will be formally introduced during the upcoming Paris International Motor Show next Fall. Suzuki wanted to beat Europe's current gasoline fuel-misers (with the exception of hybrids): the Peugeot 107/Citroën C1/Toyota Aygo triad. Therefore the Alto features lightweight improvements and a low drag coefficient. The automaker also announced two fuel cell vehicles to be shown in Paris as well, the SX4 FCV, which features a GM fuel cell, and a second "crosscage" concept with air-cooled fuel cells supplied by British company Intelligent Energy. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: Suzuki]

Press Release

SUZUKI AT THE MONDIAL DE L'AUTOMOBILE IN PARIS WORLD PREMIERE FOR ALL-NEW GENERATION OF ALTO

* New Alto combines low environmental impact with fun to use
* Two new fuel-cell models display innovative eco-friendliness
* Press Conference on 2 October, 2008 at 8.30h, Hall 3, Stand 302

The Paris International Motor Show (Mondial de l'Automobile), to be held from 2-19 October 2008, is the venue for Suzuki Motor Corporation to exhibit an array of exciting new models and concept cars. At its Stand 302 in Hall 3, the company hosts, among others, the world premiere of the all-new Alto.

New Suzuki Alto offers eco-friendly and enjoyable motoring
The all-new Alto builds on the strengths of Suzuki's unparalleled knowledge of small-car development. It combines eye-catching style and easy urban mobility with great performance in terms of high fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions. The new compact car offers light weight achieved through downsizing yet provides ample interior roominess and comfort. For the compact body, Suzuki designers tailored a stylish, sporty and youthful look that simultaneously exudes solidity and urban energy. It is perfectly matched to European tastes and supports a low drag coefficient. With overall higher levels of quality, comfort, and safety, the all-new Alto is a response to the needs of today's motorists.

Fuel cell models with high environmental compatibility
Suzuki seeks to further strengthen the environmentally conscious advantages of its products and aims for further reductions of their impact on the global environment. One way to achieve this is fuel cell technology. The latest two fuel-cell models will be exhibited in Paris: the first is the SX4 FCV and is equipped with a GM-made high-performance fuel cell stack, a Suzuki-developed 70MPa hydrogen tank, and a light, compact capacitor. The second is the "crosscage" that features a simple, compact, and lightweight air-cooled fuel-cell power system from British specialist company Intelligent Energy, plus a high-performance lithium-ion secondary battery.

Today's Suzuki at a glance
The Suzuki stand will also include other exciting products that embody Suzuki's "Way of Life!" message. The lineup will include production vehicles such as the Swift, Grand Vitara, SX4 and Splash. In addition, the SX4 WRC car as well as the SERT endurance GSX-R1000, will show Suzuki's motorsport spirit.

Detailed information about the Suzuki models and future Suzuki activities can be obtained at the Press Conference on 2 October, 2008 at 8.30h, Hall 3, Stand 302.
[Source: Suzuki]