Suzuki reveals major EV push at Tokyo motor show
Suzuki is set to unveil a series of new all-electric concept vehicles at the Tokyo motor show.
Ranging from compact city cars to delivery vans and electric motorbikes, the Japanese firm will reveal a host of new EVs as it looks to rapidly expand its electrified offering.
Suzuki has only just launched its first full EV – the e Vitara – but plans to have four electric cars on sale in Europe by 2030.
The Japan Mobility show, running from October 30 to November 9, will give the first hint at how some of those vehicles and others for its home market could look, including a “minicar” and “minivan” designed for city living.
Among the key models on display will be the Vision e-Sky, which will go into production next year. At just 3.4m long and 1.47m wide, the boxy four-door EV fits within Japan’s strict Kei car requirements and is designed for drivers who regularly use a “minicar” for commuting, shopping and short holiday trips. That could also make it eligible for the proposed European E-Car category which could sit above the existing quadricycle class.
Suzuki says the Vision e-Sky is intended to make people feel “positive and cheerful”, and will offer around 168 miles of range, but has not given any indication of battery capacity or motor power.
Alongside the Vision e-Sky, Suzuki will showcase the e Every Concept – a tiny van partner to the passenger car. It shares the same footprint as the Vision e-Sky but is more than 20cm taller, creating a large cargo area.
The van is a joint project between Suzuki, Toyota and Daihatsu and is intended as a zero-emissions urban delivery vehicle with up to 124 miles of range. It also offers vehicle-to-load/grid charging to supply electricity in case of an emergency.
As a brand famous for its two-wheeled creations as well as four-wheeled ones, Suzuki also plans to display its first global electric motorbike. The e-Address is a 125cc equivalent scooter with up to 80km urban range and a very traditional design, intended for sale in Suzuki’s key motorbike markets worldwide.
More radical is the e-VanVan. Based on Suzuki’s original VanVan bike from the 1970s, this all-electric concept takes styling inspiration from its namesake with a retro design and chunky open bodywork. Suzuki says the 125cc-equivalent is designed as a “playful” option that brings innovation and rider enjoyment to the electric motorcycle segment.
