Next-gen Maruti Vitara Brezza & Maruti Swift facelift to use Li-Ion battery

Starting in FY2021, the Maruti Swift and all models positioned above it will use a Lithium-ion battery instead of a traditional lead-based battery, sources privy to the development have told mint.

Lithium-ion batteries have a greater energy density, they recharge faster, they self-discharge at a lower rate, they tolerate higher temperatures and offer many benefits over lead-acid batteries.

“This move would give Suzuki economies of scale since Maruti sells 50% of the total cars in India,” said one source.

“Even if they manage to fit 1 million cars with lithium-ion batteries, it will be huge in number. Also, it will be cheaper than sourcing lead batteries from vendors and prices of lead are always on the rise.”

Lead prices continue to soar with each passing day, but Lithium should cost around just $120 or almost half that of lead by 2021. “If Suzuki can internally source this component, the cost-benefit will be huge given the number of cars Maruti Suzuki sells,” said the second source. Also, Suzuki is investing in hybrids and electric technology, and it will require these batteries for the same