What Ethanol Percentage Can the Suzuki Fronx Use?

JAKARTA – Suzuki Global has taken strategic steps to prepare for the era of eco-friendly vehicles. The ‘S’-badge manufacturer is ready to introduce the Suzuki Fronx Flex Fuel, a concept model claimed to be greener due to its ability to run on high ethanol blends up to E85. As a note, Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) are designed to operate on multiple fuel types, typically combining conventional gasoline with ethanol in varying blends. Interestingly, recent reports suggest that the Maruti Suzuki-assembled Fronx, set to launch soon, may even be capable of running on 100% ethanol (E100). ‘We believe Flex Fuel technology is a realistic transition solution before full electrification becomes widely accessible,’ Suzuki Global stated in an official release. The engine is developed from Suzuki’s K-Series, known for its efficiency and lightweight design. Although Suzuki has not disclosed performance figures, the pure gasoline version available in India produces around 88 PS and 113 Nm of torque. The 1.5-litre K15B variant delivers 104 PS and 138 Nm. Through recalibration of the fuel management system and Engine Control Unit (ECU), the Fronx Flex Fuel’s performance is expected to remain optimal despite ethanol’s lower energy density compared to pure gasoline. In this project, Suzuki has chosen India as the primary testing ground for alternative fuel technology. Maruti Suzuki, their largest subsidiary in the country, has long been a key player in developing ethanol and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles. While many global manufacturers are rapidly shifting to full battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), Suzuki is taking a phased approach. Flex Fuel technology is seen as a more realistic transition solution, especially for developing markets with uneven electric charging infrastructure. The Fronx is locally produced in Indonesia by PT Suzuki Indomobil Motor (SIM) in Cikarang, West Java. However, the model sold in Indonesia currently cannot use E100. Hariadi, Assistant to the Aftersales Department Head at PT Suzuki Indomobil Sales (SIS), stated that the Indonesian-made Fronx can only use E10, or 10% ethanol. He said he has no information on technical modifications to increase the ethanol percentage, adding, ‘We have no details on that yet as it involves the overall design.’