Suzuki’s Electric Shift
Suzuki is making a significant move towards electric vehicles (EVs).
The Japanese car manufacturer plans to stop selling petrol and diesel cars by early 2025.
This change is part of Suzuki’s strategy to become an all-electric brand, aligning with new UK and EU regulations.
Suzuki will introduce its first fully electric vehicle next year, with more models coming before the end of the decade.
This move reflects the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires manufacturers to sell a certain percentage of zero-emission vehicles.
By 2025, Suzuki will discontinue several popular models, including the Swift Sport, Jimny LCV, Ignis, and Swace.
Suzuki is also expanding its hybrid offerings of the Swift, Vitara, S-Cross and Across PHEV.
Suzuki’s GB director, Dale Wyatt, confirmed the brand’s electric future and plans to advance EV technology.
He noted that the withdrawal of these models will help to compete during a period where sales ratio of hybrid versus EV products will drive their business.
Suzuki aims to maintain similar sales volumes this year as last year in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
New Suzuki car buyers will receive a seven-year warranty through the dealer network.
Suzuki showcased its eVX SUV concept, which had a projected range of 310 miles and a 60kWh battery at the Tokyo Motor Show.
The UK Government will increase the pressure on automotive manufacturers by having 22% of total sales from zero emission vehicles by the end of this year, with targets increasing yearly until the middle of the next decade.
From 2030, brands need to have a minimum sales percentage of 80% from electric vehicles to meet the targets, followed by 100% five years later.
Failure to meet ZEV sales targets could result in fines of up to £15,000, although experts predict that firms are unlikely to be hit with sanctions in the first few years of the scheme.
