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Maruti Suzuki, a prominent player in the Indian automotive industry, has taken a significant stride towards embracing electric mobility with the unveiling of its maiden electric vehicle, the e Vitara. The car, revealed at an international event held in Milan, Italy, marks the company's entry into the electric vehicle (EV) segment, drawing inspiration from the eVX concept previously showcased at the Auto Expo 2023. Production is scheduled to commence in Spring 2025 at Suzuki's dedicated electric manufacturing facility in Gujarat, India.
The Maruti Suzuki e Vitara is constructed upon the newly developed HEARTECT-e platform, specifically engineered for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). This platform incorporates a lightweight design, prioritizing performance and energy efficiency. The HEARTECT-e boasts a short overhang, contributing to a spacious interior. Notably, Suzuki has maximized battery capacity by strategically reengineering the platform's floor, eliminating underfloor members to create a seamless space for the battery pack.
One of the e Vitara's most prominent features is its electric 4WD system, branded as the ALLGRIP-e. This system empowers the e Vitara with off-road capabilities, thanks to two independent eAxles strategically positioned at the front and rear of the vehicle. This configuration ensures precise control and responsiveness. The ALLGRIP-e system further enhances the e Vitara's versatility with its integrated Trail Mode, enabling the car to navigate rough terrain more effectively by strategically braking spinning tyres and redistributing torque as needed. This innovative feature could give Maruti Suzuki a competitive edge in the EV market, particularly appealing to drivers seeking a versatile vehicle.
The e Vitara is set to offer two battery pack options – 49 kWh and 61 kWh – for global availability. However, it remains uncertain whether both options will be made available to Indian customers. Although range details are yet to be disclosed, the e Vitara is anticipated to achieve a range of approximately 400 km on a single charge. The 49 kWh battery is projected to deliver 142 bhp and 189 Nm of torque in the 2WD variant. The larger 61 kWh pack is expected to boost power output to 172 bhp in the 2WD version and offer up to 300 Nm of torque in the 4WD configuration.
The introduction of the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara marks a significant step in India's journey towards transitioning to a more sustainable future. The e Vitara's features, particularly its electric 4WD system and the HEARTECT-e platform, demonstrate Maruti Suzuki's commitment to delivering advanced and efficient electric vehicles. As the company gears up for production in 2025, the e Vitara is poised to create a buzz in the EV market and potentially contribute to a shift towards cleaner mobility solutions.