In addition to the plug-in series hybrid version of the Swift subcompact hatchback that Suzuki will display at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, the Japanese company will also be bringing along three separate concepts powered by fuel cells.
First up is the SX4-FCV, which uses an 80 kW hydrogen fuel cell stack supplied by longtime partner GM paired with a Suzuki-designed hydrogen storage tank that compresses the gas at 10,000 psi. A lightweight capacitor reportedly takes the place of the more common battery pack and helps smooth out the flow of electrons to the 68 kW electric motor and aids in regenerative braking. Road testing is currently underway of the SX4-FCV in Japan.
Next on the list is a version of Suzuki's popular Burgman scooter that's propelled by an electric motor that gets its power from a small hydrogen fuel cell from Intelligent Energy and the first 700-bar storage tank in the motorcycle world. The final fuel cell-powered concept from Suzuki is a personal mobility vehicle called the MIO that uses easily replaceable methanol fuel cell cartridges in lieu of batteries that should theoretically allow for unlimited range. Check out all three concepts in our gallery below and hit the jump for the press release.
PRESS RELEASE
Suzuki Exhibits at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show 2009
We are pleased to inform you that Suzuki will have a major presence at the Tokyo Motor Show 2009, which will be held at the Makuhari Messe International Convention Complex in Chiba City from 21 October to 4 November 2009. It will be organized by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association.
At the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, the Suzuki booth will bring together automobiles, motorcycles, power-assisted bicycles, and electric wheelchairs under an overall theme of "small cars for a big future". As well as showing Suzuki products, it will highlight the company's future-oriented initiatives. Visitors will see how Suzuki's automaking spirit and technologies realize exciting lifestyle possibilities.
Automobiles
Exhibition Models
* All-New Alto Concept
The all-new Alto Concept points to the future of the minivehicle by combining newly honed performance with minivehicle economy and user-friendliness. Styling that appeals to people regardless of age and gender makes the Alto Concept an outstanding proposition for motorists who want minivehicle economy and convenience. A big, simple, highly legible speedometer, an easy-to-use floor-mounted shifter, and user-friendly switches and storage spaces realize convenience for people of all ages. And low weight reflects a concerted effort to realize fuel economy and environmentally sensitive low-emission performance at levels that will be demanded in the years ahead.
* Swift Plug-in Hybrid
The Swift Plug-in Hybrid is a series hybrid incorporating a propulsion motor, a battery, and an engine-powered generator. Reflecting a close focus on daily convenience, it's designed primarily to be driven only on electric power on short day-to-day drives.
For the short distances involved in daily shopping or commuting, the Swift Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a battery that's charged from a household mains socket. When the battery runs low, an engine of a kind usually used in minivehicles powers a generator that charges the battery. This means the Swift Plug-in Hybrid not only meets the needs of the many people who drive no more than 20km each day but also saves users from worrying about being stranded or having to search for a charging stand if the battery runs low.
With the Swift Plug-in Hybrid, anyone can easily do something for the environment while enjoying daily mobility.
* SX4-FCV (Fuel-Cell Vehicle)
The SX4-FCV combines a General Motors-produced high-performance fuel cell with a Suzuki-developed high-pressure (70MPa) hydrogen tank and a light, compact capacitor, which promotes driving performance by recovering energy during brake application and using it to reduce fuel-cell loading during acceleration. With a view to commercializing the SX4-FCV, Suzuki is testing it on public roads with government approval and using the resulting data in ongoing development.
* MIO (Fuel-Cell-Powered Electric Wheelchair)
Suzuki's MIO electric wheelchair is powered by a direct-methanol fuel cell rather than by a conventional lead-acid battery. The methanol solution is held in a cartridge-type bottle that's easy to replace with a full spare one, so the user gains extra freedom and doesn't need to worry about running out of fuel on the road. Suzuki began joint trials of the MIO with the Shizuoka prefectural government in November 2008 with a view to enhancing its reliability ready for commercialization.
Production Models
The Suzuki booth will feature the following production models: Wagon R; Lapin; Palette SW; Splash, Swift, SX4, Jimny, and Escudo (overseas name: Grand Vitara)
Motorcycles
Exhibition Models
* Burgman Fuel-Cell Scooter
Having stunned the motorcycling world with the Crosscage fuel-cell bike at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki applied the technologies to a more practical and accessible form of two-wheel transportation: a scooter. The result is the Burgman Fuel-Cell Scooter. The fuel cell is air-cooled and concomitantly light, compact, and structurally simple. A 70MPa hydrogen tank (the highest-pressure tank used on a bike thus far) allows a usable riding range. And the tank is mounted within a robust frame for safety.
* Gladius 400 ABS
The Gladius* 400 ABS is a stylish naked bike with a 400cm3 V-twin engine. It features a truss frame that combines rigidity with great looks. And its newly designed V-twin engine delivers plenty of power in a rider-friendly way. All told, the Gladius 400 ABS is great way to experience the nimble performance and classic throb of a V-twin machine.
*The Gladius is named after the kind of sword used by gladiators in ancient Rome.
* Boulevard 400
The Boulevard 400 is a performance cruiser with aggressive bikini-cowled looks and a 400cm3 engine. Low, flowing body lines that give an unmistakable sense of performance are combined with inverted front forks and stylish cast wheels. The engine is a narrow-angle (45°), liquid-cooled V-twin with fuel injection.
* Bandit 1250F ABS
The Bandit 1250F ABS is a fully faired tourer. Together with the compact body and torquey performance that make touring so enjoyable on the Bandit series, it has a sharply styled full fairing for heightened comfort.
* Other Exhibition Model
Suzuki will also be showing a GSV-R racebike.
* Production Models
The Suzuki booth will feature the following production models: Gemma; Skywave 250 Type M; DR-Z50; and Love SNA26.
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