Maruti WagonR flex-fuel hatchback made its public appearance earlier this year at the Delhi Auto Expo. The company had revealed that it’s ready to roll out flex-fuel vehicles, but it would be difficult for them to begin production commercially till such fuels are readily available across the country. It targets to introduce its flex-fuel programme by 2025.
The WagonR flex fuel hatchback has been designed and developed by Maruti Suzuki’s in-house engineering team with inputs from Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan. It will be India’s first mass-market flex fuel vehicle that will run on any ethanol-petrol blend between 20 percent (E20) – 85 percent (E85). As per a fresh media report, the flex fuel WagonR will enter into production in November 2025.
What all has changed?
In order to handle the corrosiveness of ethanol and its lower calorific value, car manufacturers make some modifications to their regular petrol engines to make them flex fuel compatible. For reference, the Maruti WagonR flex fuel has new fuel system technology such as ethanol sensors for detection of ethanol percentage and heated fuel rail for cold start assist.
The updated engine management system, fuel injector and fuel pump make the setup sturdier. It will also meet the BS6 Phase II emission standards. While running on E85 fuel, the flex fuel WagonR is claimed to reduce carbon emissions by 79 percent than the regular petrol engine. It also ensures no compromise in terms of power and performance.
The hatchback’s flex fuel version might come with some new body graphics and green embellishments all around the body. Inside, there could be a dual-tone Black and Beige them with features such as three-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the smartphone connectivity, central locking with keyless entry, dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, central locking, etc.
