The largest carmaker in the country is yet to have a single electric car in its portfolio but that is about to change.
The much-awaited Maruti Suzuki eVX will finally go into production in the coming months and we might have the launch in early 2025. The largest carmaker in the country is surprisingly lagging behind in the EV race. Perhaps it is waiting for the market to mature enough so that it could see high volumes. In the meantime, it is focusing on hybrid cars. In fact, it has some pretty popular hybrid offerings from its joint venture with Toyota. Many feel that hybrid is a necessary technology to facilitate a transition between the ICE and EV ages.
Maruti Suzuki eVX Launch in Coming Months
Maruti Suzuki has already unveiled the eVX concept. It will be a mid-size electric SUV to rival the likes of the Mahindra XUV400, Tata Curvv.ev, MG ZS EV and the upcoming Creta EV. This looks like the segment where huge volumes are possible. The eVX will most likely be the first EV from the Indo-Japanese carmaker. As per NDTV Profit, Maruti Suzuki Chairman, RC Bhargava said during the company’s 43rd annual general meeting on Tuesday, “We are in the process of introducing EVs. Our first EV model will be in production and out for sale in a few months’ time.” He clarifies that EVs are “a priority objective” for the automaker.
He continues, “We will be exporting the EVs to Europe and Japan. Over the next 6-7 years, we will be adding a total of six EV models to our portfolio.” This is a clear indication that Maruti wants to make India is EV hub from where it can serve various international markets. However, it is bullish on the prospects of hybrid cars in the meantime. Bhargava remarked, “The importance of hybrid cars is obvious. Hybrid cars are not in conflict with EVs. While EVs have to grow, the remaining vehicles with petrol and diesel (powertrains) have to evolve so that the total carbon emissions come down. Whether it is hybrids, CNG, biogas, or ethanol…all of these will help convert petrol and diesel cars into cleaner vehicles.”
Our View
EV industry is growing rapidly and Tata Motors has already taken a giant leap in this space. It has over three-quarters of the market share. Mahindra is about to bring its Born Electric (BE) range of electric cars in the next couple of years. Even Hyundai is planning the electric avatar of its mega-popular Creta by the beginning of 2025. MG Motors already has two EVs in India and is preparing for a third EV. Therefore, Maruti Suzuki needs to keep up the pace if it wants to pose a challenge to the aforementioned car marques.
Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eVX to Get ADAS Specially Made for India
