Maruti Suzuki is planning to foray into the electric vehicle (EV) segment in coming years. While the automaker remains tight lipped about its upcoming electric car, a fresh media reports suggest that it will arrive sometime in 2024. The model might debut at the 2024 Delhi Auto Expo. The first Maruti electric car will be a mini SUV (codenamed YY8) that likely to be positioned against the Tata Punch EV. Here’re key details we know so far about the upcoming Maruti electric SUV.
1. Suzuki-Toyota JV Product
If report is to be believed, the new Maruti electric car will be developed under Suzuki-Toyota partnership. That means, it will be retailed via both Toyota and Maruti Suzuki’s dealerships across the nation. In fact, the model could be exported to select global markets.
2. Platform Sharing
The upcoming Maruti electric SUV could be based on Suzuki’s lightweight Heartect platform or Toyota’s low-cost DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture) modular platform. Both architectures are heavily localized and compatible to electric powertrains. The DNGA platform will also be used in the upcoming Maruti and Toyota mid-size SUVs, which are reported to hit roads just before 2022 Diwali season.
3. Range, Battery Pack
As of now, there is no official word on its powertrain details. The latest media report says that the model might come with the lithium-ion battery sourced from Toshiba’s Gujarat based facility. It’s expected to deliver a range of around Rs 250km – 350km.
4. Production Plans
Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat-based plant will serve as production hub for the upcoming electric compact SUV. The company is expected to achieve a production target of 1.5 lakh units per year.
5. Expected Price
The new Maruti electric car is likely to cost below Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). At this price point, it will take on multiple upcoming models including the Tata Punch EV, Hyundai and Kia’s mass electric car and Citroen mini EV.
