Maruti Suzuki has announced plans to introduce series-hybrid versions of popular models like the Fronx, Baleno, and Swift in the future. The Fronx will be the first vehicle to get the new system. Series hybrids will have a different mode of operation than the strong hybrids we see today, with their own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into what series hybrids are, how they function and talk about various pros and cons of these.
Series Hybrids: What Are They?
Let’s start with how a strong hybrid works. To give you a context, this is the most common type of hybrid vehicle that we see around. The Hyryder, Hycross, Vellfire and Honda City Hybrid are all strong hybrids.
The powertrain here consists of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor mated to a battery pack. The electric and ICE components are so paired that the electric motor powers the wheels at low speeds and can also drive the wheels in pure EV mode if the battery has enough juice.
The IC engine takes over as the vehicle picks up speed and also charges the battery pack in the process. These vehicles also use regenerative braking to replenish the battery. The electric motor also provides additional assist in certain cases. The switch between ICE and the electric motor happens automatically. The takeaway here is that both the electric motor and the engine are connected to the wheels and provide drive as and when needed.
Now take the case of series hybrids. In this model, the IC engine is not connected to the wheels. Its sole function is to act as a generator and produce electricity to power the electric motor. It is just the electric motor that drives the wheels. In other words, this is an electric vehicle powered by an ICE generator!
The most important advantage of this system is probably its simple design. Since there is no direct mechanical connection between the engine and the wheels, the powertrain gets further streamlined- meaning more efficiency and less losses. This system is also going to be cost-effective, owing to its simpler composition. This will help Maruti Suzuki to price these vehicles competitively. Such a placement will be critical to their success, especially because Maruti Suzuki is a Volume seller.
Fuel efficiency is another key benefit of series hybrid vehicles. In this setup, the internal combustion engine would be operating at its optimal efficiency at all times. This will minimize fuel spent and if Maruti Suzuki’s claims are to be believed, these vehicles will return mileage figures of around 35 kpl.
Upcoming Series Hybrid Cars In India
Maruti Suzuki will be the first one to bring series-hybrid cars into India. However, the trend is expected to continue and more manufacturers are known to be planning to enter the space. Hyundai has also revealed intentions to launch series-hybrid products in India in the forthcoming time.
Series hybrids are also known by the name ‘ Range extenders’ and Hyundai seems to have a similar nomenclature in mind for the upcoming vehicles. They will likely be called the Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV), and are part of the Hyundai Dynamic Capabilities strategy. These vehicles are expected to have a combined range (ICE + EV) of 900 km. If Hyundai manages to pull off a competitive price for their range extender vehicles, they’ll find sales success with them for sure.
