Suzuki Launches First Electric SUV: e Vitara

Maruti Suzuki
Image Courtesy: Maruti Suzuki

Suzuki Motor Corporation has officially introduced its inaugural mass-production battery electric vehicle, the e Vitara, in Europe. Production is set to begin at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India in spring 2025, with sales expected to kick off in various markets, including Europe, India, and Japan, by summer 2025, according to a statement from the automaker.

Maruti Suzuki India, which is approximately 58% owned by Suzuki, plans to release the model next year. The e Vitara is based on the concept vehicle “eVX,” which was first presented at the Auto Expo in India in January 2023 and later at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2023. This model signifies Suzuki’s first global strategic battery electric vehicle.

Toshihiro Suzuki, President and Representative Director of the company, emphasized that the e Vitara was developed through extensive testing to create a user-friendly electric vehicle for customers. He noted the company’s commitment to achieving a carbon-neutral society by offering various options, including battery electric vehicles, hybrids, and CNG vehicles, tailored to different regions.

The launch of the e Vitara is seen as a crucial step towards it’s carbon neutrality goals. Following this release, the company plans to broaden its battery electric vehicle lineup and propose mobility solutions that meet the unique demands of specific countries and regions.

Additionally, it recently announced that it would supply the electric SUV to Toyota Motor Corporation as part of their ongoing partnership. The two companies have been collaborating since signing a memorandum of understanding for a business alliance in 2017, focusing on sharing products and manufacturing capabilities.

Suzuki Motor Corporation, headquartered in Hamamatsu, Japan, is a renowned global automotive and motorcycle manufacturer known for its compact vehicles, motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). Founded in 1909, it has built a strong reputation for producing fuel-efficient, reliable, and affordable cars, with models like the Swift, Alto, and Jimny enjoying worldwide popularity.

The company’s focus on compact car design has made it a market leader in small to mid-sized vehicles, particularly in regions with high demand for affordable transportation. In India, it’s subsidiary, Maruti Suzuki, is the dominant player in the automotive market, providing a broad range of vehicles tailored to Indian consumers and accounting for a significant share of Suzuki’s global sales.

Additionally, Suzuki has been exploring hybrid and electric vehicle technologies as part of its the company continues to make a meaningful impact in both developed and emerging markets around the world.