Maruti Suzuki Baleno with SHVS mild-hybrid tech to be launched in India in 2017

Maruti Suzuki is reportedly planning to launch SHVS mild-hybrid technology equipped Baleno hatchback in 2017. Maruti Suzuki already manufactures Baleno with mild-hybrid tech coupled with 1.2-litre DualJet petrol engine only for exports. For India, the Baleno diesel is expected to get mild-hybrid tech in line with the Ciaz and the Ertiga.

The reason why Maruti Suzuki delays the launch of the Baleno SHVS mild hybrid is due to the massive demand pressure on the existing versions of the Baleno, reports NDTV Auto.

Maruti Suzuki's new SHVS system works on the principle of using energy while slowing down to recharge the battery. Kinetic energy, while slowing down, is converted to electricity and stored in the lithium ion battery. The potential energy stored in the battery will reduce the load on the engine by providing momentum. Combined with the idle stop/start system and integrated starter motor, the car will return increased fuel efficiency.

The Baleno diesel is powered by a 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine that is tuned to develop 74bhp and 190Nm of torque. The Baleno diesel returns claimed fuel efficiency of 27.39 kmpl. With the mild-hybrid system in place, the fuel efficiency figure will further go up that will attract more takers for the premium hatchback.

Maruti Suzuki Baleno never looked back since its entry into the market in October 2015. The hatchback, which is being sold through Maruti's dealership Nexa in India, has crossed one lakh unit of sales recently and the car continues to rake in sizable numbers. The company has sold 10,623 units of the Baleno in September 2016 alone. Waiting period for the Baleno currently starts from four months onwards.