Suzuki Thailand to shift to hybrids & EVs, what does this mean for PH?

Last month, Suzuki announced they would be closing their Rayong plant in Thailand as they will undergo a review of their global production structure. In addition, Suzuki will switch to an importer/distributor business model in Thailand.

Despite the setback, Suzuki Motor Thailand is committed to continuing to do business in the country. Recently, the automaker revealed a new business plan that is aimed at being ready for future competition, particularly in electrification. Under the “Suzuki Worry-Free Campaign”, the automaker plans to introduce 4 new car models from 2025 onward.

Photo provided by Thai publication headlightmag

The upcoming lineup will consist of hybrid cars and 100% fully electric vehicles and Suzuki is confident each model will be a product that will be able to meet customer needs. In addition, the new business plan will see Suzuki Motor Thailand emphasize customer care and aftersales service.

Currently, Suzuki Motor Thailand sells five nameplates, the Celerio, Swift, Ertiga, XL7, and the Carry. The automaker has yet to reveal what will be their 4 new electrified models. However, we can guess some of the vehicles they could launch come next year.

First up is the Suzuki Grand Vitara Hybrid which has been available in Indonesia for quite some time. It gets a 1.5-liter mild-hybrid system derived from the Ertiga/XL7 Hybrid but is coupled to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Another likely vehicle Suzuki Motor Thailand could get is the Swift Hybrid. Based on the all-new fourth-generation model, the electrified hatchback gets a new 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that benefits from a 12V mild-hybrid system and is paired with either a 5-speed manual or CVT. In the Indian market, the all-new Swift is available with Auto Gear Shift (AGS).

Another likely model Suzuki Motor Thailand could bring is the S-Cross – another electrified crossover that can come with either a 1.4L mild-hybrid turbocharged powertrain or a 1.5L HEV system. As for the mystery EV, perhaps Suzuki Motor Thailand will be one of the first markets in Southeast Asia to get the Jimny EV which was already confirmed by the automaker last year.

With the automaker shifting towards electrified models, what does this mean for the Philippine market? While nothing is set in stone yet, Suzuki Motor Thailand's shift to offering hybrids and EVs could also lead to Suzuki Philippines Inc. shifting towards electrification. While they already have the mild-hybrid versions of the Ertiga and XL7, more hybrid models will help Suzuki Philippines make the transition into an eco-friendly brand.

Do you think Suzuki Philippines will also shift towards more electrified vehicles in the future? Let us know in the comments.

Source: Headlightmag