Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) had revealed its future plan that comprises of multiple new launches including SUVs, CNG models and electric cars. RC Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India Limited had also confirmed that the commercial launch of the first Maruti Suzuki electric car will take place sometime in 2021. Earlier, it was slated to hit roads by the end of 2020. The reasons behind delay are the under developed infrastructure and government’s policies for the electric four-wheelers. The Research and Development (R&D) work and trail runs, however, are going as per the company’s plan.
The first Maruti Suzuki Electric, which was first announced at the MOVE Summit in 2018, will be based on the third-generation WagonR hatchback. In fact, the prototype vehicles have been under test for different weather and terrain conditions. The spy pictures reveal that the Maruti WaognR electric will feature a new split headlamp design with the LED DRLs (daytime running lights). The front grille might be slightly different than the regular model. The fog lamps will be positioned lower down the front bumper.
While the 15-inch black wheels are likely to be borrowed from the Ignis, the vertically-stacked taillamps will be sourced from the standard WagonR. The side and rear design will be exactly similar to its donor sibling. The Maruti WagonR electric will be based on Suzuki’s Heartect platform that also underpins the new-gen WagonR. Dimensions might also remain unchanged. Read – 3 New Maruti Suzuki Cars Ready To Launch in 2020
Interior will also be more or less similar to the standard WagonR. There will be a large central digital display, dashboard integrated AC vents, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, power windows, and a multi functional steering wheel. For safety provision, the first Maruti Suzuki electric car is likely to offer driver’s side airbag (passenger side optional), ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, seat belt reminder, speed alert system and door open warning.
Official specifications are yet to be revealed by the carmaker. Though, the Maruti WagonR electric is likely to come with both standard and fast charging capabilities. Its battery pack will take 7 hours to get fully charged via a regular power socket and an hour (up to 80%) via fast charger. Reports suggest that the first Maruti Suzuki electric car will deliver a range of 150km on a single charge. Prices of the new electric car are estimated to start from Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).
