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Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently celebrated a monumental moment for India’s automotive industry, flagging off the production of Maruti Suzuki’s first-ever battery electric vehicle (BEV), the eVitara. The event, held at Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG), also marked the launch of India’s first localized lithium-ion cell and electrode manufacturing at Suzuki’s TDS Lithium-Ion Battery Gujarat facility. This dual milestone signals India’s bold step into the global electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid market.
The ceremony was a high-profile affair, attended by Gujarat’s Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Japan’s Ambassador to India Keiichi Ono, and top executives from Suzuki Motor Corporation and Maruti Suzuki. It underscored the strong Indo-Japanese partnership driving India’s clean mobility ambitions.
EVitara: A Game-Changer for India’s EV Landscape
The eVitara is not just another electric vehicle; it’s India’s first mass-produced EV designed for global markets. Built at Maruti Suzuki’s Gujarat plant, this BEV is set to hit European roads in countries like the UK, Germany, France, and Norway, with exports starting from Pipavav Port this month. Unlike many EVs that repurpose internal combustion engine platforms, the eVitara is crafted on a dedicated EV-only architecture, promising superior design, safety, and performance.
This model has already garnered international attention, having been showcased at the Milan Auto Show and the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in New Delhi. It embodies the Make in India, Make for the World vision, blending Suzuki’s EV expertise with India’s manufacturing prowess. For those interested in India’s growing EV ecosystem, this launch aligns with other advancements like Tata’s Curvv.ev, a stylish electric SUV pushing the boundaries of design and range.
Pioneering Battery Production in India
Alongside the eVitara, Suzuki’s TDS Gujarat facility has begun producing lithium-ion cells and electrodes, a first for India. This move makes the country self-reliant in critical battery components for strong hybrid vehicles, starting with the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. With an initial capacity of 18 million cells annually and plans to scale up by 12 million more, this facility reduces India’s reliance on imports while boosting the hybrid ecosystem.
This development is a significant leap toward the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, making clean mobility more affordable and sustainable. It also complements efforts like Ola Electric’s push into two-wheeler EVs, showcasing India’s diverse approach to electrification.
Suzuki’s Deep Commitment To India
Suzuki’s investment in India exceeds Rs 1,00,000 crore, creating over 11 lakh jobs across the value chain. The Gujarat plant, one of Suzuki’s fastest-growing subsidiaries, has produced 4 million units in just eight years, including popular models like the Baleno, Swift, and Fronx. The addition of the eVitara further cements its role as a global manufacturing hub.
Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “These achievements reflect the visionary leadership of PM Modi and the enduring Indo-Japanese partnership. We’re committed to reducing oil consumption and carbon emissions through EVs, hybrids, and alternative fuel vehicles.”
For readers curious about India’s broader automotive innovations, check out how Mahindra’s electric SUV lineup is also driving the nation’s green mobility goals.
India’s EV Future Takes Shape
The launch of the eVitara and localized battery production marks a defining moment for India’s automotive industry. These milestones position India as a key player in the global EV and hybrid markets, combining scale, localization, and innovation. As Maruti Suzuki and Suzuki Motor Corporation pave the way, India is poised to make clean mobility accessible and sustainable for millions.
