Suzuki Motor Corporation is gearing up to enter the small electric vehicle (EV) segment in India, following the launch of its first EV model, the e-VITARA SUV. The e-VITARA will make its global debut in India, which Suzuki has designated as its production hub for EVs, announced Representative Director and President Toshihiro Suzuki on Thursday.
Despite the rising popularity of SUVs, Suzuki emphasized that small cars will remain relevant in India, as a large population is expected to transition from two-wheelers to affordable four-wheelers in the future. Maruti Suzuki India, the company’s subsidiary and market leader, is set to unveil the e-VITARA at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in Bharat Mandapam on Friday.
Speaking about Suzuki’s EV strategy, Toshihiro Suzuki remarked, “Compact vehicles are ideal for EVs, but mastering EV manufacturing techniques is crucial before venturing into small electric cars. After gaining sufficient experience with the e-VITARA, we plan to expand into the small EV segment.” While a specific timeline for the small EV rollout was not disclosed, Suzuki stated that customer feedback on the e-VITARA would play a key role in shaping future plans.
Alongside the e-VITARA, Suzuki Motorcycle India will debut its electric scooter, the e-Access, at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. Both models will serve as global products, with India positioned as their production hub.
Suzuki highlighted India’s growing importance as an export hub for both four-wheelers and two-wheelers. “India’s scale and manufacturing strength are key advantages for Suzuki. We aim to leverage this to supply high-quality, appealing products to markets in Europe, Japan, the Middle East, Africa, Central and South America, and Asia,” he said.
The e-VITARA will initially be exported to Europe, followed by Japan and other global markets. Suzuki also noted that Maruti Suzuki resumed vehicle exports to Japan last year with the Fronx, with pending orders of 15,000 units. In 2024, the company achieved record exports of 3.26 lakh units across over 70 countries.
Addressing the decline in small car sales amid the growing demand for SUVs, Suzuki dismissed concerns about the segment’s future. “Maruti Suzuki’s small car sales are comparable to the SUV sales of other manufacturers. Small cars won’t disappear in India. With a billion people likely to upgrade from two-wheelers to four-wheelers, affordable small cars will remain essential,” he asserted.
Suzuki Motor Corporation, headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a leading global automobile and motorcycle manufacturer, known for producing a wide range of vehicles including compact cars, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and outboard motors. Founded in 1909, Suzuki has built a reputation for delivering affordable, reliable, and fuel-efficient vehicles, with a strong emphasis on innovation and quality.
The company has a significant presence in markets around the world, particularly in Asia, Europe, and emerging markets, and is known for its compact and small-car models that cater to a broad spectrum of consumers. Suzuki is also committed to sustainable mobility, investing in electric and hybrid vehicle technologies to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly transportation solutions. With a rich legacy of manufacturing excellence, Suzuki continues to play a vital role in shaping the global automotive industry.
