If there's a Suzuki to covet, it's the Suzuki Swift hatchback, which has earned a reputation as a poor man's Mini Cooper in Europe and Japan. Suzuki will show a plug-in hybrid version of the Swift at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show.
The most interesting thing we know about this concept car is the packaging of its lithium-ion batteries -- right down the middle of the car in the center console. This could potentially make it possible to have a pair of rear seats in the car, though that's not clear from the photos.
As the plug-in Swift is a series hybrid, there's a 658cc gasoline engine on-board to power the front-drive electric motor when the batteries run low on charge and you're not near a suitable electrical outlet. The engine apparently has a generating capacity of 40 kilowatts (54 hp). The front-drive electric motor has an output of 74 hp, according to Suzuki.
More photos after the jump.
4g63 says:
12:46 AM, 10/ 1/09
Suzuki needs to bring the Swift to the US. People won't mistaken it as a Geo Metro now. I think it's a good looking car especially the 3-door.
thejohnp says:
09:48 AM, 10/ 1/09
Wonder if you'd have to use a heater in winter by sitting so close to the batteries.