Paris preview: Suzuki to show new SX4 FCV


Suzuki already has a little experience with vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel cells, as its Crosscage motorcycle concept has been around the block a few times already since it first debuted in Tokyo last year. That two-wheeler is now a running prototype and will again be shown off in its latest form at the upcoming Paris Motor Show. Along with the Crosscage will be Suzuki's SX4 FCV, a hatchback with a fuel cell provided by General Motors.

Along with the hydrogen-powered electric machines on display, Suzuki will also debut its new Alto economy car. Built in India by the Suzuki/Maruti joint venture, the seventh-generation Alto will likely get a 1.0-liter engine which will be fully Euro V emissions compliant. While the fuel cell vehicles are likely still a ways off from regular production, the Alto will be on sale in India and in Europe shortly after the Paris Motor Show in October. We've pasted the press release after the break.


[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.

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