This is Suzuk’s first-ever electric car, the e VITARA

KUALA LUMPUR: Suzuki has pulled the wraps off its first mass-production battery electric vehicle, the e VITARA, in Europe. It is the production-spec version of the Suzuki eVX concept showcased at the Indian Auto Expo and at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023.

Let’s know the Suzuki e VITARA in detail - 

Dimensions 

The 5-seater Suzuki EV boasts a compact yet spacious design with an overall length of 4,275 mm, width of 1,800 mm, and height of 1,635 mm. The wheelbase is measured at 2,700 mm. The EV has a minimum turning radius of 5.2 metres and a ground clearance of 180 mm, offering comfortable manoeuvring and off-road capability.

Drivetrain and range 

Based on the brand’s “HEARTECT-e” platform, the Suzuki e VITARA is offered in two lithium-iron-phosphate battery options - 49 kWh and 61 kWh, with both 2WD and “ALLGRIP-e” 4WD drive systems available. 

The “ALLGRIP-e” system features independent eAxles at the front and rear, along with a Trail mode that “enables smooth escape from rough terrain by applying brakes to spinning tyres and distributing drive torque to the opposite tyre.”

The smaller battery pack comes mated to a front-mounted electric motor generating a maximum power of 142 hp and a peak torque of 189 Nm. The larger 61 kWh unit, on the other hand, gets both single-motor and dual-motor options. The former churns out 172 hp and 189 Nm while the latter is good for making 184 hp and 300 Nm.

While the automaker is yet to confirm the driving range, it was earlier revealed that the top-spec model is expected to offer a range of over 500 km.

Exterior

Based on the “High-Tech & Adventure” theme, the design of the EV stays true to the concept. It features a sharp-looking front fascia with sleek single-pod headlights integrated with LED daytime running lights. The charging port has been positioned on the front fender.

Accentuating the side profile are muscular wheel arches, body claddings, and alloy wheels (size ranging from 18 to 19 inches). At the rear lies a chunky bumper and wrap-around LED taillights connected by a black insert.

Interior 

The e VITARA has a two-tone interior with an integrated display, a stylish two-spoke steering wheel, and tough-looking panels. The centre console houses a rotary drive mode selector and an electronic parking brake for convenience. 

Part of the equipment pack are - a wireless smartphone charging pad, heated mirrors, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, and advanced driver assistance systems.

Availability

The Suzuki e VITARA is a global BEV model that will be sold in several countries including Europe, India, and Japan. The production is expected to begin at the Suzuki Motor Gujarat plant in India next year.

Upon introducing its first EV, Toshihiro Suzuki, Representative Director and President, Suzuki Motor Corporation said, “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. The 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 line-up and propose mobility solutions tailored to the needs of specific countries and regions.”

Also read: 5-door Suzuki Jimny launched in Malaysia at RM 199,950