Suzuki Motor Corporation has unveiled its inaugural mass-produced battery electric vehicle (BEV), the e Vitara . Production is set to commence in spring 2025 at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India, with sales projected to start around summer 2025 in various regions, including Europe, India, and Japan. The e Vitara , derived from the “eVX” concept model showcased at the Auto Expo in India and the Japan Mobility Show in 2023, embodies Suzuki's first global strategic BEV offering. The vehicle aims to provide an "Emotional Versatile Cruiser" experience, blending advanced technology, a robust design, a dynamic driving experience, and off-road capabilities through its electric 4WD system, “ALLGRIP-e.”

Design

The e Vitara boasts a design philosophy of “High-Tech & Adventure,” merging the modernity of a BEV with the ruggedness of an SUV. This is evident in its exterior, characterised by large-diameter tires and a long wheelbase. The interior complements this theme with an integrated display featuring advanced technology, tough-looking panels, and a robust center console.

Powertrain

Powering the e Vitara is a highly efficient BEV powertrain. It comprises an eAxle integrating the motor and inverter, and lithium iron-phosphate batteries chosen for their safety and reliability. This combination delivers swift acceleration from a standstill and responsive overtaking capabilities.

As per the company, e Vitara (based on European model) has two drivetrains with battery capacity of 49 kWh and 61 kWh. In which 49 kWh is 2WD (two wheel drive) and 61 is available in both 2WD and 4WD.

The e Vitara incorporates an electric 4WD system, “ALLGRIP-e,” leveraging Suzuki's four-wheel drive expertise. Two independent eAxles, one at the front and one at the rear, provide power and precise control with enhanced responsiveness. Additionally, a Trail mode enhances off-road capability by applying brakes to spinning tires and redistributing drive torque to the opposite tire, functioning as a Limited Slip Differential (LSD).

"Suzuki is pursuing to achieve carbon neutral society by minimizing use of energy. We will invest not only in Battery EVs but also hybrids and ICEs that run on fuels such as CNG, biofuel, and ethanol, and will provide the right solutions in the right places. The e Vitara is the mass production model of the eVX we exhibited in 2023 at the
India Auto Expo and Japan Mobility Show," said Toshihiro Suzuki, Representative Director and President, Suzuki Motor Corporation.

HEARTECT-e platform

Underpinning the e Vitara is the newly developed “HEARTECT-e” platform, specifically engineered for BEVs. This platform prioritises a lightweight structure, high-voltage protection, and a spacious interior achieved through a short overhang design. The main floor eliminates underfloor members to maximize battery capacity.

“The e Vitara is our first BEV, developed through repeated trial and error to create an easy-to-use BEV for our customers. In order to realise a carbon-neutral society, we will provide a variety of options, including BEVs, hybrid vehicles, and CNG vehicles, tailored to specific regions. Introduction of the e Vitara represents a significant milestone in achieving carbon neutrality. Following the launch of the e Vitara , we will continue to expand our BEV lineup and propose mobility solutions tailored to the needs of specific countries and regions.”

Following its launch, Suzuki plans to expand its BEV lineup further, offering diverse mobility solutions catering to the specific needs of various countries and regions.

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