The Swift EV Hybrid will form part of the manufacturer’s “small cars for a big future” theme, demonstrating compact, fuel-efficient, user-friendly and fun-to-drive concept cars for the near and distant future.

Using power from its on-board batteries, the car offers a range of between 12 and 18 miles from a full charge, which Suzuki said allows it to cover most journeys a typical small car would be used for. Once the power is depleted, a small petrol engine kicks in working as a generator to top up the batteries.

Taking this approach means the Swift EV Hybrid can use a smaller battery unit than a pure electric vehicle. As a result, the manufacturer said it was lighter, quicker to charge, uses fewer resources and cuts costs.

Suzuki has yet to reveal whether this could pave the way for a small range-extended electric vehicle in future.