Suzuki’s e-Vitara, an all-electric compact SUV manufactured in India, has received a 4-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP crash safety tests. The assessment indicates a strong safety design, despite some identified areas for refinement. The frontal offset test demonstrated the e-Vitara’s passenger compartment held its form, achieving good protection ratings for front occupants’ legs. The side impact test also delivered positive safety ratings for all body areas.
However, the full-width frontal test revealed a medium rating for the safety of rear passengers’ heads and chests, due to the forward displacement during the collision. Rear impact tests presented better results. Whiplash protection was rated as good for both the front and rear seats. Advanced safety technologies, like an e-Call system and multi-collision braking, are integrated into the SUV.
Maruti Suzuki India has started exporting the e-Vitara, a key development in its global electric vehicle strategy. The initial shipment, consisting of over 2,900 vehicles, left Gujarat’s Pipavav port in August, bound for 12 European countries, including the UK, Germany, France, Norway, and Sweden.
The e-Vitara is currently being produced at Maruti Suzuki’s Hansalpur plant in Gujarat, which will serve as the worldwide production hub. The vehicle has previously been displayed at the India Mobility Global Expo in Milan and New Delhi, among other events. It utilizes Suzuki’s new Heartect-e electric platform.
Maruti Suzuki is planning to launch the e-Vitara in India, with future export plans targeting over 100 countries. While specific details for the Indian market are still pending, the company has confirmed the vehicle will be offered in Delta, Zeta, and Alpha trims, offering an estimated range of around 500 km on a single charge.