The Suzuki e-Vitara marks a significant milestone for the Japanese automaker as it enters the fully electric vehicle market. Scheduled for release in the summer of 2025, the e-Vitara is a compact SUV designed to appeal to a wide range of drivers with its combination of style, performance, and technology.
Design: Blending Ruggedness with Modernity
The e-Vitara’s design embodies a “High-Tech & Adventure” theme, merging the advanced aesthetics of a modern electric vehicle with the robust appeal of an SUV. Its exterior features striking design elements such as large-diameter tires and a long wheelbase, contributing to its commanding presence on the road. The interior complements this theme, showcasing an integrated display with cutting-edge technology and tough-looking panels and a centre console. The e-Vitara’s overall design draws inspiration from the eVX concept car, indicating a commitment to carrying over its bold and futuristic elements.
Power and Performance: Electrified Capability
The e-Vitara will be available with two battery options: a 49kWh battery and a 61kWh battery. The 49kWh battery will power a 106kW motor and will be offered exclusively with two-wheel drive. The 61kWh battery will be available in both two-wheel drive, with a 128kW motor, and four-wheel drive, boasting a twin-motor setup with a total output of 135kW.
While official range figures are still under wraps, it is estimated that the 49kWh two-wheel drive model will offer a range exceeding 200 miles, while the 61kWh two-wheel drive model is projected to achieve close to 250 miles.
The four-wheel drive variant, equipped with the 61kWh battery, is expected to have a slightly reduced range due to the additional weight of the dual motors.
A key differentiator between the e-Vitara’s two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models lies in the drivetrain. Two-wheel drive models feature a single eAxle, meaning the motor propelling the wheels is positioned on one axle. Conversely, four-wheel drive models utilise two independent eAxles, one on each axle, effectively providing power to all four wheels.
Suzuki’s renowned expertise in four-wheel drive technology is evident in the e-Vitara’s electric four-wheel drive system, aptly named “ALLGRIP-e.” This system employs two independent eAxles, strategically placed at the front and rear, delivering not only impressive performance but also precise control and responsiveness. Furthermore, ALLGRIP-e incorporates a “Trail” mode, designed to enhance off-road capabilities by simulating a limited slip differential. This intelligent feature applies the brakes to spinning tires, effectively redistributing drive torque to the opposite tire, ensuring smoother traversal of challenging terrain.
Underpinning Innovation: The HEARTECT-e Platform
The e-Vitara is built upon a brand-new platform specifically engineered for Suzuki’s electric vehicles, called “HEARTECT-e”. This platform is characterized by its lightweight structure, high-voltage protection features, and a spacious interior layout made possible by its short overhang design. The HEARTECT-e platform’s main floor is cleverly designed without underfloor members, maximizing the available space for the battery pack and potentially contributing to a longer driving range.
Stepping inside the e-Vitara’s cabin, drivers are greeted by a single digital panel that stretches across the dashboard from the driver’s side to the centre of the car. This panel houses separate screens for driver information and infotainment, ensuring a seamless and intuitive user experience. Below these screens, the climate control functions are conveniently located, positioned above a piano black centre console that houses a wireless charging pad, cupholders, and the gear selector.
Global Ambitions: A Strategic Model for Suzuki
The e-Vitara embodies a significant stride for Suzuki towards realizing its carbon neutrality goals. The company acknowledges the escalating demand for electric vehicles and has outlined plans to further expand its battery electric vehicle lineup in the years to come.
Production of the e-Vitara will be handled at the Suzuki Motor Gujarat plant in India, with sales anticipated to commence in various global markets, including Europe, India, and Japan. Positioned as a global strategic model for Suzuki, the e-Vitara underscores the company’s commitment to catering to a diverse international customer base. While official pricing details are yet to be revealed, it is speculated to start around £30,000 in the UK. This competitive pricing strategy, combined with its enticing blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology, positions the e-Vitara as a compelling contender in the burgeoning electric SUV segment.
