India’s largest car maker, Maruti Suzuki, is expected to launch its first electric vehicle called e Vitara soon.
It was showcased earlier this year at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. The company is preparing a strong support system for future EV buyers.
Training Tie-up with ITIs
Maruti Suzuki has started a training program focused on high-voltage systems in electric and hybrid vehicles.
For this, it has partnered with about 130 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across 24 states and union territories.
Over 4,100 students from the first batch will soon be ready to join the automobile industry.
After-Sales Support Expansion
Rahul Bharti, Senior Executive Officer (Corporate Affairs) at Maruti Suzuki, stated that a major challenge for EV sales is the lack of after-sales support.
Currently, 90% of EV sales happen in about 100 cities. Maruti Suzuki plans to open more than 1,500 workshops across roughly 1,000 cities to provide EV service.
Competition and Specifications
The e Vitara will compete with Hyundai’s Creta Electric, Tata Motors’ Curvv EV, MG Motor’s ZS EV, and Mahindra’s BE6.
It is expected to offer a range of around 500 kilometers on a single charge. The SUV will have two battery options: 49 kWh and 61 kWh.
The 49 kWh version will produce 142 bhp power and 189 Nm torque, while the 61 kWh version will deliver 172 bhp and 189 Nm torque.
Design and Features
The electric SUV features dual-tone interiors with squared dashboard elements.
It includes dual integrated screens that function as an infotainment system and a digital driver display.
Maruti Suzuki plans to add six EV models to its portfolio in the coming years.
Platform and Build
The e Vitara will be built on the HEARTECT-e platform, specially designed for battery-powered electric vehicles. It will have two separate electric axles at the front and rear.
