Maruti eVitara Electric SUV Unveiled: India Launch In March 2025
Suzuki has officially revealed the production-ready e Vitara, based on the Maruti eVX concept, at an event in Milan. This midsize electric SUV will be Suzuki’s first EV for the Indian market, entering a competitive segment that includes the Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV, Hyundai Creta EV, and Mahindra BE 05. The e Vitara will be manufactured at Suzuki’s Gujarat plant, with 50% of its production intended for exports to Japan and Europe. The India launch is expected in March 2025.
Maruti e Vitara: What Is It?
This EV will be manufactured at MSIL’s Gujarat facility. The Milan debut further emphasizes the strong focus Suzuki has on e Vitara exports to the Japan and European markets. The European debut is scheduled for June next year. The production form of EVX, maruti e Vitara stays true to the concept in overall styling and has attractive specifications.
Key Specifications and Design
The e Vitara retains several design cues from both the concepts shown previously at the Auto Expo and Japan Mobility Show. It gets a rugged look with dark cladding, a classic two-box design, tri-slash LED DRLs, charging ports on the front flanks, and a prominent bulge over the rear wheel arches.
It spans 4,275mm in length, 1,800mm in width, and 1,635mm in height, and stands on par with the Hyundai Creta EV. The e Vitara’s 2,700mm wheelbase accommodates a sizable battery and promises a spacious cabin.
The SUV will come with two battery options:
- 49kWh battery with 144hp and 189Nm torque on offer, from a single motor setup.
- 61kWh battery with 174hp in FWD and a dual-motor AWD variant producing a total of 184hp and 300Nm torque (AllGrip-e).
Suzuki’s AllGrip-e AWD system features a Trail mode, which simulates a limited-slip differential by braking wheels with low traction and redirecting torque. The range for the larger battery variant is expected to exceed 500km on global test cycles- no official information on these have been shared yet. The curb weight ranges between 1,702 to 1,899 kg, varying between models, and ground clearance stands at 180mm—ideal for Indian roads.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the e Vitara has a dual-screen infotainment and instrument console, a floating center console, a rotary drive selector, and convenient storage areas. It will also have a wireless phone charger, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, ADAS with Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, electronic parking brake with auto hold, and more. The rear seats feature a split-folding arrangement and adjustable headrests, with sufficient legroom and headroom owing to its long wheelbase and high roof.
Platform and Production
The e Vitara is built on Suzuki’s new Heartect-e EV platform, co-developed with Toyota. This ‘skateboard’ architecture—codenamed 40PL—features Suzuki’s eAxles, combining motor and inverter for improved efficiency and power. Previously, it was rumoured that the vehicle would be based on the 27 PL platform. The 40 PL supports multiple body types, signalling future Suzuki EVs, including a planned all-electric MPV.
The BYD Sourced Battery
The Maruti e Vitara will use LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) “blade” battery packs sourced from BYD. Blade cells are known for their technological supremacy. Maruti Suzuki plans to import these batteries, unlike most other manufacturers who prefer to import cells for local assembly. This will help in ensuring consistent quality and in reducing manufacturing complexity.
While this could lead to a higher initial cost, it would help Suzuki streamline the production process better. LFP cells, known for their stability, longevity, and lower cost compared to NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) alternatives, can also withstand higher temperatures.
Launch and Pricing
The e Vitara is set to debut in India at the Bharat Mobility Show in January 2025, with a launch scheduled for March 2025. In India, the base 49kWh variant is expected to start around Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom), while the 61kWh variant could be priced closer to Rs 25 lakh. The AWD model could reach around Rs 30 lakh.
As Suzuki ventures into the Indian EV market with the e Vitara, it looks to combine its reputation for reliability with advanced EV technology, presenting a strong contender in the race for electric vehicle dominance in India.