KUALA LUMPUR: Currently, Suzuki offers two models in Malaysia: the Swift Sport and the 3-door Jimny, with plans to introduce the 5-door Jimny later this year. However, the situation is starkly different in the UK market, where the Japanese automaker has decided to discontinue both models. 

That’s right, the Swift Sport and Jimny LCV will depart the UK showrooms in the coming months, along with the Ignis and Swace (rebadged Toyota Corolla wagon) models. Why? Well, the reason is the UK government’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which pushes carmakers to sell an increasing proportion of electric cars over the next decade. 

The UK government aims for 22% EV sales in 2024, increasing to 28% in 2025 and reaching 80% by 2030, with a final goal of achieving 100% electric vehicle sales by 2035. Notably, car companies will face a penalty of £15,000 (RM 90,103) for each internal-combustion-powered vehicle sold above the allowed proportion.

Suzuki UK director Dale Wyatt said: “The departure of these models will make room for EV and enable us to compete during a period where our sales ratio of hybrid versus EV products will drive our business.” 

The place of discontinued models will be occupied by the brand’s soon-to-be-launched first electric vehicle. It will be a compact electric SUV based on the eVX concept, which debuted at the Auto Expo 2023 in India. 

The upcoming Suzuki eVX will come equipped with a dual-motor AWD (all-wheel-drive) setup and a 60 kWh battery pack. The EV will offer a driving range of up to 550 km on a single charge, as confirmed by the automaker.

Set to make its debut in 2025, the Suzuki eVX will rival the likes of the Hyundai Kona Electric,  GWM Ora Good Cat, MG ZS EV, BYD Atto 3, and Omoda E5.

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