Suzuki unveils e Vitara as first fully electric global model

Although Japanese automakers have preferred to offer more than just the pure EV solution as they work towards decarbonisation to prevent climate change, they have not ignored EV development altogether. Along with continuing development of hybrid electric vehicles, they are also developing battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and working to bring down costs to more acceptable levels.

Suzuki Motor Corporation has also been at work on developing its own EV and has unveiled its first mass-production BEV model, the e VITARA, in Milan, Italy. The e VITARA is based on the eVX concept which was shown at the Auto Expo held in India in January 2023, and also at the Japan Mobility Show in October of the same year.

Intended as a strategic global BEV model for the automaker, the e Vitara will be produced at Suzuki’s factory in India from early 2025. Besides the Indian makret, the factory will provide EVs for Europe and Japan. It was also announced recently that Suzuki will supply the model to Toyota, the first time there has been such an arrangement for BEVs between the two companies.

Designed with the concept of ‘Emotional Versatile Cruiser’, the e VITARA has an exterior design characterized by large-diameter tyres and a long wheelbase of 2.7 metres. It has a length of 4275 mm and width of 1800 mm, which makes it larger than a Perodua Ativa but a bit shorter than a Proton X50.

The BEV powertrain and HEARTECT-e platform (jointly developed by Suzuki, Toyota, and Daihatsu) consists of an eAxle that integrates the motor and inverter, along with the lithium iron-phosphate battery.

The front motor generates 106 kW or 128 kW, depending on battery capacity, while the rear motor generates 135 kW. Maximum torque is up to 300 Nm with the larger of the two battery packs.

The platform has a lightweight structure, high-voltage protection, and gives a spacious interior due to the short overhang. To maximize battery capacity (49 or 61 kWh), the main floor has no underfloor members.

Suzuki has long expertise in 4-wheel drive technology which goes back to the Jimny of the 1970s. For the e Vitara, it has developed ALLGRIP-e, an electric 4WD system that utilizes independent eAxles at the front and rear. This system allows for precise control with excellent responsiveness, besides grip and stability on all surfaces.

Additionally, it includes a Trail mode that can help in rough or slippery terrain by applying brakes to spinning tyres and distributing drive torque to the opposite tyre (like a LSD function).

“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 realize 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 line- up and propose mobility solutions tailored to the needs of specific countries and regions,” said Toshihiro Suzuki, President and Representative Director of the automaker.

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