Maruti e Vitara Launch:
The number of electric cars on Indian roads is steadily increasing, with new models electrifying the market regularly. Yet, a significant part of customers have been eagerly awaiting Maruti's first electric car. The wait is finally over. Maruti Suzuki, the country's largest automaker, is officially launching its first electric vehicle, the 'Maruti e Vitara.' Let's explore the new Maruti e Vitara -
Before its Indian debut, Maruti Suzuki's electric car had already made its way onto international soil. The car is manufactured at their Hansalpur, Gujarat plant, where on August 26, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the local production of the new hybrid battery electrode. At this event, the 'Maruti e Vitara' was flagged-off by the PM, initiating its export journey.
Source: aajtak
The company plans to export this car to more than 100 countries worldwide. Maruti Suzuki targets a production of 67,000 electric vehicles by the fiscal year 2026, with a significant portion for export, strengthening India's position in global products. So far, approximately 7,000 units have been exported, reaching countries like Japan and various parts of Europe.
From Gujarat's Pipavav port, Maruti Suzuki initially exported 2,900 cars to 12 countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway, France, Denmark, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Hungary, Iceland, Austria, and Belgium. And now, it's being launched in India.
Source: aajtak
In international markets, the Suzuki e Vitara comes with two battery options – 49kWh and 61kWh. Both power a front-mounted electric motor, while the larger 61kWh pack is also available with a second motor, providing an all-wheel-drive system dubbed 'All-Grip E' by the company.
It's important to note that these driving range figures adhere to the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). During its showcase at the India Mobility Global Expo, Maruti claimed this car would deliver a driving range of up to 500KM. Initially, only the front-wheel-drive (FWD) variants will be launched in India, with plans to introduce all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants later.
Source: aajtak
The Maruti e Vitara boasts a well-crafted and modern interior, featuring an asymmetrical dashboard design. It includes a dual-screen setup beneath a single glass panel, although the offset positioning of the instrument display might feel unusual. Despite that, the layout is quite functional, with most controls easily accessible. The company offers front ventilated seats as part of its features.
Additional features include electronic parking brake with auto hold, ‘trail’ drive mode exclusively for the AWD version, hill descent control, single-zone auto climate control, wireless phone charger, 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging, keyless entry, powered driver's seat, sunroof, and an Infinity audio system with a subwoofer. Safety features include 7 airbags and a Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).
Source: aajtak
While commenting on Maruti e Vitara's price before the launch might seem premature, it's undeniable that pricing will be a significant challenge for Maruti Suzuki. Traditionally seen as an affordable carmaker among Indian buyers, Maruti has a reputation to maintain with this electric car. The company will likely strive to price it competitively against its rivals.
It is anticipated that the company might introduce this car at a starting price of 18-19 lakh INR, with higher variants potentially reaching 25 lakh INR.
