While many manufacturers have joined the Indian market for electric vehicles, the country’s top-selling manufacturer, Maruti Suzuki, has yet to do so with a full EV vehicle. The company has no immediate intentions to offer an affordable electric car option, according to RC Bhargava, Chairman of Maruti Suzuki India.
Bhargava revealed that there won’t be any sub-Rs 10 lakh electric vehicles in the initial phase during an interview with BQ. He added that he doesn’t think there would be a large market for electric vehicles priced under ten lakh rupees. Therefore, when evaluating purchases in this price range, the majority of buyers are inclined to look into alternative possibilities.
Practicality was a key issue for these potential customers, according to Bhargava. Customers may choose automobiles with longer ranges even if they cost more because charging such vehicles on a regular basis may prove difficult.
Bhargava further emphasised that a sizeable part of automobile customers might not meet the prerequisites for acquiring an EV. Access to a designated parking area where a charging device can be put is one of these requirements.
By 2025, Maruti Suzuki plans to launch its first electric vehicle in the Indian market. This EV is intended for the mid-size SUV market. By 2031, the business hopes to introduce up to six new electric vehicles.
In 2024, Maruti Suzuki will introduce the eVX
On public roads, a Maruti Suzuki electric vehicle prototype based on the eVX concept has been sighted testing. This year, the automobile was first shown. The Suzuki electric SUV test mule was equipped with 17-inch, conventional-looking silver alloy wheels. In the final product, more fashionable machine alloy wheels are probably going to take their place. These alloy wheels fit neatly into the squared wheel arches.
The SUV also has rearview mirrors similar to those on the Baleno that have built-in cameras to enable the 360-degree camera system available in the car. Similar to the contemporary Maruti Suzuki Swift, this Suzuki electric SUV has rear door handles that are integrated into the C-pillar. The slightly flared form of the front and rear fenders adds to the car’s muscular image. Although the vehicle’s interiors were completely hidden, prohibiting close inspection, the outside design cues give a hint as to what to expect inside.
The production-spec Suzuki eVX vehicle will accept a 60kWh battery pack, expected to have a range of about 500–520 km, and is built on a brand-new dedicated electric chassis. In terms of length, width, and height, the car should be 4.3 metres long, 1.8 metres wide, and 1.6 metres high.
It will compete with upcoming electric SUVs like the Hyundai Creta Electric, Mahindra XUV400, MG ZS EV, and the production-spec Tata Curvv Electric when it debuts on the Indian market under Maruti Suzuki’s brand identity.
