Suzuki is making significant changes to its UK lineup as it prepares to launch its first electric car. The company has announced that it will be discontinuing several models, including the Ignis, Jimny LCV, Swace, and Swift Sport. This decision is in response to the UK’s zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires manufacturers to sell an increasing proportion of electric vehicles (EVs) over the next decade.
Starting in 2024, manufacturers must sell at least 22% EVs, and this percentage will rise to 28% in 2025 and 80% by 2030. Failure to meet these targets will result in a penalty of £15,000 for every internal combustion engine (ICE) car sold above the permitted proportion. Suzuki’s UK director, Dale Wyatt, explained that the discontinuation of these models will make room for EVs and allow the company to compete in the changing market.
“We’re exiting the ICE era with a focus on SUVs and the new Swift,” Wyatt said. “Then starting in the second half of 2025, we’ll begin a period of EV growth.” This statement suggests that the Swift Sport hot hatch, which has been a popular model since 2006, will not return in its current form. Suzuki UK also mentioned that the discontinued models could disappear from showrooms sooner than expected if dealer stock depletes.
With these changes, Suzuki’s UK lineup will consist only of petrol-engined cars such as the Swift, Vitara, S-Cross, and Across. The company predicts that its sales total for this year will be similar to 2023 when it sold 26,574 cars, up from 17,378 in 2022.
To prepare for its transition to electric vehicles, Suzuki has already unveiled its first electric car concept, the eVX. This model is roughly the size of the S-Cross and Vitara and features a 60kWh battery with an estimated range of 342 miles.
While the discontinuation of popular models may disappoint some Suzuki fans, this move reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the UK’s ZEV mandate and adapting to the growing demand for electric vehicles. By focusing on SUVs and preparing for EV growth, Suzuki aims to remain competitive in the changing automotive landscape.
