Maruti Suzuki India has introduced Wagon R Flex Fuel, India’s first mass segment flex fuel prototype car as part of the company’s decarbonization strategy.

Unveiled in New Delhi, the Wagon R Flex Fuel prototype model runs on any ethanol-petrol blend between 20% (E20) and 85% (E85) fuel.

With support from Japan-based Suzuki Motor Corporation, the car is designed and developed locally by Maruti Suzuki engineers.

The Wagon R Flex Fuel prototype car has an advanced engine that features heated fuel rail for cold start assist and ethanol sensor technologies.

Other elements such as an engine management system, upgraded fuel pump, and fuel injector will ensure the strength of the engine and vehicle.

Maruti Suzuki-developed engine management system strategies and emission control system will comply with the BS6 Phase-II emission norms.

Hisashi Takeuchi — Maruti Suzuki India Managing Director and CEO said: “Maruti Suzuki has consistently aligned itself to the national objectives of reducing country’s oil import burden and improving the environment.

“Designed and developed locally in India with support from SMC, Japan, the Wagon R Flex Fuel prototype vehicle emboldens Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ efforts.

“Notably, our research shows that ethanol fuel-based Wagon R Flex Fuel prototype vehicle operating on E85 fuel will help reduce tailpipe GHG emissions by 79% in comparison to a conventional gasoline Wagon R model while ensuring the same power performance.

“Its benefits have also been outlined in Niti Aayog’s ‘Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India 2020-25’ which elaborates on the plan for production and utilization of ethanol for automotive application.”

Maruti Suzuki India anticipates rolling out Wagon R Flex Fuel for the compact segment by 2025.

The Indian car manufacturer committed to making all its vehicles E20 fuel compliant by March 2023.

Recently, Maruti Suzuki India introduced Maruti Suzuki S-Presso S-CNG variant, a new S-CNG variant of the S-Presso.

  decarbonization, Ethanol, Hisashi Takeuchi, India, Make in India, Maruti Suzuki, Maruti Suzuki India, New Delhi, Niti Aayog, Suzuki Motor Corporation