Maruti Suzuki’s much-awaited electric SUV, the e-VITARA, is finally ready for production. Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the occasion by flagging off the e-VITARA from Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat plant. The company plans to launch the electric vehicle in India on September 3rd, though initially, it will be exported to approximately 100 countries. This marks a significant step as it is Maruti’s first electric car.
In the Indian EV market, Tata, MG, and Mahindra have already built a strong presence. With Maruti entering the market later, can it compete with these established brands?
The demand for electric cars in India is surging. In July, 15,423 electric cars were sold, a 93% increase year-over-year. The sales include various models like SUVs, sedans, and MPVs, with SUVs leading the way. Tata Motors currently leads the EV segment, followed by MG Motors and Mahindra.
Tata Motors leads the Indian EV market in terms of sales. Tata’s EV portfolio is the largest, with electric versions of most models, excluding the Altroz. The best-selling electric cars from Tata include Punch, Nexon, Curve, Tiago, and Tigor, along with the recently launched Harrier. Despite this, due to strong competition, the market share in the EV segment has decreased to 38% from 67% last year.
JSW MG Motor India secured the second position with sales of 5,061 units last month, increasing its market share from 16% to 32%. The company’s EV portfolio includes the Windsor, Comet, and ZS EV, with recent launches of the M9 MPV and Cyberster electric sports car. Mahindra’s electric car sales reached 2,810 units in July, doubling their market share to 17% from 8%, fueled by models like the BE6 and XEV 9e.
The question is whether Maruti can carve a place in the growing EV market. The e-VITARA, an SUV, is expected to compete with established models like the Hyundai Creta EV, Windsor EV, and Tata Nexon EV. Considering Maruti’s reputation as India’s top car seller, there is expectation that the e-VITARA will be well-received.
The electric e-VITARA is initially targeted for export. However, the launch in India is expected soon, with the vehicle hitting the roads shortly thereafter. Maruti Suzuki is focused on building the EV ecosystem, including the expansion of charging stations and service networks. The company plans to leverage its extensive network for ICE cars to support its EV infrastructure.
Globally, the e-VITARA offers two battery pack options: a 49 kWh unit and a 61.1 kWh unit. The 49 kWh battery delivers 142 bhp and 193 Nm of torque, with a range of up to 344 km. The larger 61.1 kWh battery has both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations with respective ranges up to 426 km and 395 km.
