Suzuki Motor Corporation has introduced its first global, fully electric midsize SUV, the Maruti e Vitara, in Milan. This new model, based on the earlier Maruti eVX concept, will face competition from Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV, Hyundai Creta EV, and Mahindra BE 05 in India.
Production and Global Reach
Suzuki’s Gujarat plant will handle the manufacturing of the e Vitara, with 50% of production designated for export markets like Japan and Europe. Despite its global unveiling in Italy, the e Vitara will debut in India in January 2025 at the Bharat Mobility Show, and sales are expected to commence in March 2025, followed by a European release in June 2025.
Design and Dimensions Remain True to Concept
The e Vitara stays faithful to the eVX concept showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo and Japan Mobility Show. The production model maintains a muscular look with dark cladding around the base, giving it a rugged appearance. The vehicle features distinct design elements like tri-slash LED lights, charging ports on the front flanks, and a bulging rear wheel arch. Measuring 4,275mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,635mm in height, the SUV is comparable to competitors such as the Hyundai Creta EV, and its 2,700mm wheelbase suggests a spacious interior.
Battery, Platform, and Performance
Built on an all-new “Heartect-e” platform, developed in collaboration with Toyota, the Maruti e Vitara offers two battery options: a 49kWh and a 61kWh, with an AllGrip-e AWD option for the latter. The 61kWh battery aims to deliver over 500km in range. Power figures for the single-motor versions reach up to 174hp, while the AWD model with dual motors delivers a total output of 184hp and 300Nm torque.
Interior and Technology
The e Vitara’s interior includes dual-screen infotainment, a modern dashboard, and a gloss-black floating centre console with ample storage. Features include an electronic parking brake, drive modes, hill descent control, and wireless phone charging. It also has ADAS features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist, catering to both tech-savvy and safety-conscious buyers.
Expected Price and Launch Timeline
Originally slated for an October 2024 release, the e Vitara’s India launch has been moved to March 2025 due to development delays. The anticipated starting price is around Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base 49kWh model, with the higher-end 61kWh AWD model possibly reaching close to Rs 30 lakh. With Maruti Suzuki venturing into EVs, the e Vitara aims to set new standards for reliability and performance.
The e Vitara marks the beginning of Suzuki’s electric vehicle lineup, with plans for an electric MPV on the same platform. As India’s top carmaker enters the EV arena, the competition for electric SUV dominance intensifies.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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