Suzuki receives approval to test new SX4-FCV fuel-cell vehicle on public roads, plans exhibit at G8 summit

Suzuki Motor Corporation has developed a compact fuel-cell vehicle called the SX4-FCV and has received approval from Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism to test it on public roads.

Suzuki has been developing fuel-cell vehicles in partnership with General Motors (GM) since 2001. Thus far, it has tested three fuel-cell minivehicles on public roads with ministerial approval: the MR Wagon-FCV and Wagon R-FCV in October 2003 and the MR Wagon-FCV again in December 2004.

The SX4-FCV delivers superior running performance by means of a GM-made high-performance fuel cell, a Suzuki-developed 70MPa hydrogen tank, and a light, compact capacitor that recovers energy during brake application and uses it to reduce fuel-cell loading during acceleration. Suzuki plans to test the SX4-FCV on public roads and use the results in development aimed at future commercialization.

As part of its support for the G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit, which begins on 7 July, Suzuki will show the SX4-FCV in the Environmental Showcase exhibition and demonstration area at the summit’s International Media Center.

Overview of SX4-FCV