All-New Alto Concept, Swift Plug-in Hybrid, SX4 FCV and MIO

We are pleased to inform you that Suzuki will have a major presence at the Tokyo Motor Show 2009, which will be held at the Makuhari Messe International Convention Complex in Chiba City from 21 October to 4 November 2009. It will be organized by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association. At the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, the Suzuki booth will bring together automobiles, motorcycles, power-assisted bicycles, and electric wheelchairs under an overall theme of "small cars for a big future". As well as showing Suzuki products, it will highlight the company's future-oriented initiatives. Visitors will see how Suzuki's automaking spirit and technologies realize exciting lifestyle possibilities.

All-New Alto Concept

The all-new Alto Concept points to the future of the minivehicle by combining newly honed performance with minivehicle economy and user-friendliness. Styling that appeals to people regardless of age and gender makes the Alto Concept an outstanding proposition for motorists who want minivehicle economy and convenience. A big, simple, highly legible speedometer, an easy-to-use floor-mounted shifter, and user-friendly switches and storage spaces realize convenience for people of all ages. And low weight reflects a concerted effort to realize fuel economy and environmentally sensitive low-emission performance at levels that will be demanded in the years ahead.

Swift Plug-in Hybrid

The Swift Plug-in Hybrid is a series hybrid incorporating a propulsion motor, a battery, and an engine-powered generator. Reflecting a close focus on daily convenience, it's designed primarily to be driven only on electric power on short day-to-day drives.

For the short distances involved in daily shopping or commuting, the Swift Plug-in Hybrid is powered by a battery that's charged from a household mains socket. When the battery runs low, an engine of a kind usually used in minivehicles powers a generator that charges the battery. This means the Swift Plug-in Hybrid not only meets the needs of the many people who drive no more than 20km each day but also saves users from worrying about being stranded or having to search for a charging stand if the battery runs low.

With the Swift Plug-in Hybrid, anyone can easily do something for the environment while enjoying daily mobility.

SX4-FCV (Fuel-Cell Vehicle)

The SX4-FCV combines a General Motors-produced high-performance fuel cell with a Suzuki-developed high-pressure (70MPa) hydrogen tank and a light, compact capacitor, which promotes driving performance by recovering energy during brake application and using it to reduce fuel-cell loading during acceleration. With a view to commercializing the SX4-FCV, Suzuki is testing it on public roads with government approval and using the resulting data in ongoing development.

MIO (Fuel-Cell-Powered Electric Wheelchair)

Suzuki's MIO electric wheelchair is powered by a direct-methanol fuel cell rather than by a conventional lead-acid battery. The methanol solution is held in a cartridge-type bottle that's easy to replace with a full spare one, so the user gains extra freedom and doesn't need to worry about running out of fuel on the road. Suzuki began joint trials of the MIO with the Shizuoka prefectural government in November 2008 with a view to enhancing its reliability ready for commercialization.

via:zercustoms

Holden to Launch Two New Special Editions

Holden will hit the streets with two new special edition models delivering very different approaches to Australia's best-selling car range.

The SS V-Series Special Edition sedan, Sportwagon and Ute will achieve immediate attention with styling treatments even more aggressive than Holden's established performance hero models.

For motorists seeking great value, International sedan and Sportwagon models will deliver $7,500 of extra features (based on recommended retail price of extra features) including leather seat trim and 18 inch alloy wheels.

Holden Director of Marketing Philip Brook said the two offerings highlighted the different ways in which Holden special editions stimulated demand in Australia's best-selling range.

"These vehicles cater to motorists at both ends of the Commodore-buying spectrum - those looking for great value and those looking for striking performance looks," Brook said.

"SS V-Series has always been about sports performance and ultimate road presence. Now we've dialled it up even further.

"The International edition is even better value when you combine extra features with the advanced 3.0 litre direct injection engine and 6-speed automatic transmission."

SS V-Series Special Edition Sedan, Sportwagon and Ute

The SS V-Series Special Edition will boast a new aggressive twin nostril front fascia with unique lower splitter and twin letter-box hood scoops. The sedan variant will feature a decklid spoiler and chrome highlights.

On sale from November, the SS V-Series Special Edition will be available in three colours – Phantom black, Red Hot and Voodoo blue.

The Recommended Retail Prices (RRP), not including dealer delivery or Government charges, for the three SS V-Series Special Edition packs are carryover from the standard SS V-Series models and are as follows:

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VE Ute SS V-Series Special Edition (man) $47,490 RRP
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VE Commodore sedan SS V-Series Special Edition (man) $55,290 RRP
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VE Sportwagon SS V-Series Special Edition (man) $57,290 RRP
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Six-speed automatic transmission +$2,000 RRP


The SS V-Series Special Edition Ute will make its debut at this year's Deni Ute Muster which starts on Friday 2 October.

"Holden has sponsored the Deni Ute Muster for 11 consecutive years and its popularity continues to grow," Brook said.

"The event that attracts the country's most passionate Ute enthusiasts is the perfect place to launch this special edition Ute."

Special Edition International Sedan and Sportwagon

The new International offers an impressive level of standard features, five star safety and the performance and refinement of the all new 3.0 litre Spark Ignition Direct Injection V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The new powertrain offers fuel efficiency that is better than some major four cylinder competitors.

In addition to Omega, the Special Edition Commodore International includes:

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18 inch alloy wheels (4)
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Berlina front grille
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Leather appointed seat trim
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Leather wrapped steering wheel
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Bluetooth for compatible mobile phones
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International badge
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Chrome decklid eyebrow moulding (sedan only)
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Rear Park Assist (sedan only as already standard on all Sportwagon models)

On Sale from November, the driveaway pricing for the two International packs is as follows:

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VE Commodore International Sedan (auto) $35,990 driveaway
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VE Commodore International Sportwagon (auto) $37,990 driveaway
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Metallic paint $500

A 3.6 litre dual fuel LPG Alloytec V6 engine with four-speed automatic transmission is available on Commodore International sedan only.

Source: Holden