New e Vitara is Suzuki’s first all-electric model

Suzuki has officially unveiled its first battery electric vehicle, the e Vitara, in Milan, Italy. Building on the concept model ‘eVX’, the model will also appear as a rebadged Toyota in global markets. The newcomer is expected to hit European markets by the summer of 2025.

As the Vitara has been a long-time bestseller for Suzuki, it is no surprise that its first battery-powered model carries over the name. Also true to its heritage, Suzuki says that the newcomer blends the advanced technology of a BEV with the rugged durability of an SUV.

This is more than marketing, given that the car and its Toyota sibling will be built in the brand’s Indian factory in Gujarat and must take up the mission of electrifying developing countries where roads are rough and often adventurous.

Right in the heart of the segment

The e Vitara’s design theme incorporates large-diameter tires and a long wheelbase to enhance its SUV appeal. At the same time, a modern, integrated display and sturdy interior panels reinforce its high-tech feel.

The result is a model that balances the needs of today’s EV and SUV buyers. As reported earlier, the technically twinned Toyota Urban SUV will feature the exact dimensions, greenhouse, and technology but with a different fascia and rear end.

At 4,275 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,700 mm, the e Vitara is comparable to other compact SUVs like the Kia EV3, Ford Puma, and the Volvo EX30 (Europe’s second-best-selling all-electric crossover). It enters the heart of the segment.

Suzuki’s first BEV powertrain builds upon an efficient eAxle, integrating the motor and inverter. To reduce the cost, the model is powered by lithium-iron-phosphate batteries (LFP), which are cheaper to produce due to a reduced dependence on rare earth metals.

Customers will choose between two battery options: a 49 kWh pack that powers a 106 kW motor in a 2WD setup and a 61 kWh pack that supports both 2WD and 4WD configurations. There are no details yet on range or charging speeds.

‘A user-friendly BEV’

The 4WD version, which delivers a twin-motor output of 135 kW, is crafted for versatility across various terrains. It provides a dynamic driving experience that enhances the e Vitara’s off-road capabilities.

Continuing Suzuki’s legacy in four-wheel drive technology, this ALLGRIP-e electric 4WD system is equipped with independent eAxles at both the front and rear. Furthermore, it offers enhanced off-road performance thanks to a specialized Trail mode, which optimizes traction on rough terrain by selectively applying torque to the wheels with the most grip.

The e Vitara is built on Suzuki’s new HEARTECT-e platform, designed specifically for electric vehicles. According to Suzuki, this platform excels through its lightweight structure and design, which maximizes battery capacity. As is typical for dedicated platforms, it helps provide a spacious interior by eliminating underfloor components.

Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation, emphasized the e Vitara’s significance as a cornerstone of Suzuki’s commitment to carbon neutrality. “The e Vitara is our first BEV, developed through extensive testing to create a user-friendly BEV for our customers. Its launch is a significant milestone in our carbon-neutral journey. After the e Vitara, we will expand our BEV lineup and offer mobility solutions tailored to regional needs,” he said.