Suzuki reveals the e Vitara, its first production EV
Suzuki is joining the EV space as it unveils the e Vitara in Milan, Italy. Developed from the eVX concept which was first showcased at the Auto Expo India in January 2023, and then at the Japan Mobility Show in October of the same year, the e Vitara is the Japanese automaker’s first-ever production electric vehicle.
It is also the first model to be built on Suzuki’s new Heartect-e platform which is designed specifically for EVs and allows the fitting of larger batteries thanks to larger space, and more practicality for its users.
Propelling the Suzuki e Vitara is an electric motor with three different powertrain configurations. In the base front-wheel drive (FWD) option, it produces 144 horsepower and 189 Nm of torque, paired to a 49 kWh lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery.
A second FWD version makes 174 horsepower. An all-wheel drive adds a second electric motor to the rear, making a combined 184 horsepower and 300 Nm. These two latter options are paired with a larger 61 kWh LFP battery. Range figures are not yet available as of this writing.
The AWD version also makes use of Suzuki’s ALLGRIP-e system. With two independent eAxles at the front and rear, Suzuki says this system allows for precise control with excellent responsiveness. Additionally, it includes a Trail mode that gives more capability especially when going through rough terrain by applying brakes to spinning tires and distributing drive torque to the opposite tire.
When it comes to looks, the e Vitara does not stray far from the Suzuki eVX Concept with its sharp and angular exterior lines, and futuristic styling cues. A hint of ruggedness is also shown with large amounts of black plastic cladding.
The interior, while toned-down by a lot compared to the concept, still looks similar as well. There’s a large panel housing the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, and we’re also seeing a two-spoke steering wheel, and a rotary gear selector.
Sales of the Suzuki e Vitara will start next year in Europe, India, and Japan. It will be sourced from Suzuki’s manufacturing plant in Gujarat, India. Do you think it should come here to the Philippines?
