CARVERSAL

Maruti Suzuki launched its first electric vehicle, e Vitara, at Auto Expo 2025. It is a compact SUV that is scheduled for India launch by March 2025. Its production will be started from Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India. The e Vitara is built on the Heartect-e platform, which has also been developed with Toyota; it shall be available in two variations: 49 kWh and 61 kWh battery packs. The larger 61 kWh battery pack is expected to offer a range of over 500 km on a single charge.

Exterior Design: Modern, Aerodynamic and SUV-Forward

The leaked images and specifications confirm that the E Vitara retains the muscular stance of its ICE (internal combustion engine) counterpart, the Grand Vitara, but with EV-specific tweaks. Key highlights include:

Closed Grille Design: A sleek, gloss-black panel replaces the traditional grille, integrated with LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and the Maruti Suzuki emblem.

LED Lighting: Full-LED projector headlamps, connected taillights, and dynamic turn indicators enhance visibility and style.

Aerodynamic Enhancements: Flush door handles, alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers, and a redesigned rear spoiler aim to optimize efficiency.

Panoramic Sunroof: The first-in-segment feature for the Maruti EV series, bound to drive sales among urban segment users in search of a premium feel.

Duality Finished: The car is expected to be complemented by a range of dual-tone shades, including the signature Electric Blue.

Interior: The cabin of the E Vitara is said to emulate the class of global EVs by presenting sustainable possibilities with smart features.

Digital Cockpit: A 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster offers customizable displays, including real-time energy consumption and navigation.

Touchscreen Infotainment: A 9-inch floating touchscreen supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Maruti’s updated SmartPlay Pro+ interface.

Ventilated Seats: Leather-accented seats with ventilation and heating functions cater to India’s climate.

Ambient Lighting: Adjustable 64-color ambient lighting and a dual-zone automatic climate control system elevate the premium feel.

Spacious Layout: Despite the battery pack, Maruti claims a flat floor design maximizes rear legroom and cargo space (estimated 385 liters).

Powertrain and Performance: Balancing Range and Practicality

The E Vitara is rumored to debut Maruti’s all-new ZETA-27PL skateboard architecture, a modular EV platform developed in collaboration with Toyota. Key specifications include:

Battery Pack: A 40.5 kWh lithium-ion battery offering a claimed range of 340–360 km (MIDC cycle)

Output Motor: A single motor at the front axle, doing 138 BHP and 250 Nm of torque for a 0–60 mph acceleration in under 9 seconds

Charging: Fast Charging: 100 kW DC - 10–80% full charge in 35 minutes

AC Fast Charging: Home Charging, 7.4 kW - 6 hours to full charge

Driving Modes: Eco, City, and Sport modes are available, with paddle shifters and regenerative braking

Technology and Safety: A Leap Forward

Maruti has filled the E Vitara with next-gen tech to challenge rivals:

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Files reveal Level 2 autonomy abilities such as lane-keep, adaptive cruise, and automatic emergency braking.

360-Degree Camera: It has been upgraded with parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring.

Connected Car Tech: Suzuki Connect integration enables remote charging management, geofencing, and over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Safety: Six airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), hill-hold assist, and a reinforced high-strength steel structure target a 5-star Global NCAP rating.

Pricing and Market Positioning

Maruti is yet to comment on pricing, but industry insiders expect aggressive numbers in the ₹15-20 lakh ex-showroom range, placing it alongside Tata Nexon EV Prime, priced at ₹14.74-19.94 lakh, and Mahindra XUV400, priced at ₹15.99-19.39 lakh. The success of E Vitara also depends on the government subsidy available under the FAME-II scheme that brings down the cost of EVs to an extent of ₹1.5 lakh.

Challenges and Opportunities

The E Vitara will find its market in areas where electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more popular, but the charging infrastructure is still developing and has gaps. To address this, Maruti plans to team up with Tata Power and other charging networks to set up fast chargers at over 1,000 dealerships. This will make it easier for customers to find charging stations. Additionally, the company is offering a "Charge & Go" leasing plan for the vehicle's battery, which can help lower the upfront costs and make it more affordable for buyers. This approach will help make owning an EV more practical.