Suzuki Indonesia is one of the automotive manufacturers that is following the electrification trend by presenting hybrid products in the country.
However, different from other automotive brands, the hybrid technology offered by Suzuki is a mild hybrid system. This technology can be found on Suzuki Ertiga, Suzuki XL7 and Suzuki Grand Vitara products.
So how does the hybrid mil system in the Suzuki product line actually work? In general, there are three important components in this technology, namely the gasoline engine, integrated starter generator (ISG), and lithium-ion battery.
For example, the system used by the Suzuki Ertiga cannot move the wheels using electrical energy alone. Therefore it is called a mild hybrid or light hybrid.
The existing system focuses on the capability of the ISG to replace conventional alternators. There are two functions of the ISG, as a motor and generator at the same time.
When carrying out its function as a motor assist or driver, the ISG will change the electrical energy from the battery to support the work of the Ertiga petrol engine. The effect is that the driver will feel additional power when the car accelerates. As a result, the engine does not work too hard and consumes a lot of fuel.
Furthermore, as a motor assist, ISG also works with the idling stop system to be able to automatically deactivate the engine when the Ertiga stops. Then ISG also helps the engine activate again when the gas pedal or clutch pedal is pressed. This can also make the Ertiga’s fuel consumption even more economical.
Then the ISG also functions as a generator which can convert kinetic energy from car braking into electrical energy. Then stored in a lithium-ion battery. The electrical energy from the battery can then be used again to help the gasoline engine.
However, some people consider the mild hybrid technology embedded by Suzuki to be just a sweetener. This is because mild hybrid technology is still considered relatively light.