Speaking at the event, Toshihiro Suzuki, representative director and president of Maruti Suzuki Motor Corporation, emphasized the company’s three-step strategy to make Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) attractive to customers. He outlined the approach as follows: 1) Making BEVs appealing to customers, 2) Developing a dedicated BEV platform, and 3) Creating the right products based on customer requirements.

The e-Vitara is Suzuki Motor Corporation’s first BEV, and it will be manufactured at Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat plant, with production slated to begin by the end of March or early April 2025. The company has confirmed that the Made-in-India e-Vitara will not only be available in the domestic market but will also be exported to key international markets, including Europe and Japan. A significant portion of the production, nearly 50%, is expected to be shipped abroad, marking a strategic push for Maruti Suzuki in global markets.

“We will be exporting to over 100 countries, including Europe and Japan,” said Toshihiro Suzuki, highlighting the global reach of the e-Vitara. He also added that the electric SUV is part of Suzuki’s long-term technology strategy for the next decade.

The Indian electric vehicle market is still in its nascent stage, with EVs currently accounting for about 3% of the total car sales in the country. However, the launch of the e-Vitara is expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating EV adoption, especially with the introduction of models from major manufacturers like Mahindra.

The e-Vitara features a bold and modern design, characterized by sharp LED headlights, three-piece DRLs (Daytime Running Lights), a striking blacked-out bumper, fog lamps, and rugged silver skid plates that enhance its aggressive look. The SUV will offer two battery pack options: a 49kWh and a larger 61kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery, which are expected to deliver a competitive range and performance. Additionally, the e-Vitara will offer both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations to cater to a variety of customer preferences.

The interior of the e-Vitara is equally impressive, boasting modern features such as a digital instrument panel, a large touchscreen infotainment system, a powered driver seat, a wireless charger, and a premium JBL audio system. The SUV will also come equipped with a 360-degree camera, a sunroof, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for enhanced safety and convenience.

Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director and CEO of Maruti Suzuki, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, stating that the company has invested Rs 2,100 crore in the development and manufacturing of the e-Vitara in India. “Our ultimate goal is to create ecosystem-friendly solutions for our customers, which we refer to as ‘e for Me’,” Takeuchi said.

The e-Vitara’s entry into the market is expected to significantly boost the sales of electric vehicles in India, further driven by the growing demand for eco-friendly transportation options. Along with the e-Vitara, other models like the Mahindra BE6 and Mahindra XEV 9e are also poised to enhance the competitiveness of the Indian EV market.

As Maruti Suzuki takes its first steps into the electric future, the e-Vitara promises to play a crucial role in shaping the company’s green strategy while driving the adoption of electric mobility in India and abroad.

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