RAHUL S
India’s largest carmaker finally took the electric plunge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the first Maruti Suzuki e VITARA from the Hansalpur plant in Gujarat on August 26, 2025, marking a historic moment for a company that built its reputation on small, affordable cars. This milestone comes at a time when electric vehicles are gaining significant policy support across Indian states, with incentives ranging from toll exemptions to dedicated infrastructure.
The e VITARA isn’t staying home. This made-in-India electric SUV will be exported to over 100 countries, including Japan and European markets. For Maruti, this represents a complete shift from their traditional approach.
Electric Power Behind the Badge
The e VITARA offers two battery options – a 49kWh pack producing 143hp and 192.5Nm, and a larger 61kWh version delivering 173hp with the same torque figure. Both battery packs are supplied by BYD and use LFP (Lithium Iron-phosphate) blade cells, which can be explored in detail on the official NEXA experience page.
The high-capacity battery comprises 120 lithium-ion cells with an operating range from -30°C to 60°C. Maruti claims the 61kWh version will offer an MIDC-rated range of over 500km. The charge time for the 61kW battery pack is 50 minutes when connected to a 70kW DC fast charger, with a 0-100 kmph time of 8.9 seconds.
For those wanting more grip, buyers can choose the 61kWh battery with dual electric motors and AllGrip-e AWD setup, providing a combined output of 184bhp and 300Nm of torque.
Safety Steps Forward
The e VITARA breaks new ground for Maruti in safety technology. It includes seven airbags with an additional driver knee airbag, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Level 2 with 15-plus features like Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, High Beam Assist, and Adaptive Emergency Braking.
The Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) alerts pedestrians of an approaching vehicle, addressing a key safety concern with quiet electric vehicles. This focus on advanced safety systems represents the automotive industry’s broader shift toward innovative mobility solutions that prioritize safety across both conventional and emerging transportation platforms.
Inside the Electric Cabin
The e VITARA features a 25.65cm touchscreen infotainment system with wireless connectivity, along with a 10.1-inch all-digital driver’s display, ventilated front seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, and reclining rear seats that split 60:40. Prospective buyers can explore these features through the interactive e VITARA configurator.
Three distinct driving modes suit different terrains – Eco mode for efficiency, Normal mode for balanced driving, and Sports mode for full throttle performance.
Manufacturing Milestone
The Hansalpur facility has an annual production capacity approaching 750,000 units across multiple plants. Maruti has set a target of 67,000 e VITARA units by March 2026, though production targets for April-September 2025 were cut from 26,500 to 8,200 units due to a global shortage of rare earth elements from China’s export restrictions.
Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the launch was significant for the automotive industry. As detailed in the official PMO release, he emphasized that “no matter which country invests, if the hard work belongs to any Indian citizen and the product is largely made on Indian soil, then for us, it is Swadeshi” during the launch ceremony.
Market Position and Pricing
Expected pricing falls between ₹17-22.5 lakh, positioning the e VITARA against rivals including Hyundai Creta EV, Tata Curvv EV, and MG ZS EV. The India launch has been delayed till September 2025.
Ten color options are available – Arctic White with Bluish Black Roof, Land Breeze Green with Bluish Black Roof, Splendid Silver with Bluish Black Roof, Opulent Red with Bluish Black Roof, Nexa Blue, Arctic White, Splendid Silver, Bluish Black, Opulent Red, and Grandeur Grey. The official e VITARA teaser page showcases these finishes in stunning detail.
Dimensions and Design
The e VITARA measures 4,275mm in length, 1,800mm in width, 1,635mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,700mm. It has a ground clearance of 180mm and weighs 1,702-1,899 kg depending on the variant.
The electric SUV rides on either 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels and features sleek single-pod headlamps with integrated LED DRLs and wraparound LED taillights connected by a black insert.
Infrastructure Strategy
Maruti announced a new ‘e for Me’ strategy under which it will set up fast chargers at dealerships in top 100 cities, a dedicated charging app and over 1,500 EV-specific service centres in over 1,000 cities.
The vehicle supports home charging using a standard AC outlet overnight, fast DC charging stations for quick recharge, and comes with a portable charger. The Maruti Suzuki app helps locate and reserve charging slots at nearby stations. This approach aligns with evolving infrastructure frameworks like those detailed in Delhi’s comprehensive EV charging action plan, which outlines best practices for urban charging networks.
For workplace charging solutions, organizations looking to support e VITARA owners can refer to resources like the Workplace Charging Guidebook developed by progressive state EV policies.
The Road Ahead
With this milestone, India serves as Suzuki’s global manufacturing hub for electric vehicles. This SUV is the first in a four-model EV roadmap that will unfold by 2030.
PM Modi described the achievement as entering “teenage years” for the Maruti-Suzuki partnership, stating this phase is about “giving wings to dreams.” His full address at the launch, available on the PMO website, highlighted the strategic importance of sustainable mobility for India’s future.
For more information on government initiatives supporting electric mobility across India, visit the official Delhi EV portal which serves as a model for state-level EV policy implementation.
The Maruti Suzuki e VITARA launched on August 26, 2025, from the Hansalpur plant in Gujarat. It offers two battery options with the larger 61kWh pack providing over 500km range. The electric SUV includes Level 2 ADAS, seven airbags, and will be exported to over 100 countries. Expected pricing ranges from ₹17-22.5 lakh, with the India launch scheduled for September 2025.
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