Suzuki's First Mass-Produced BEV Debuts in Europe

Suzuki chooses to give its first battery-electric vehicle its global debut in Europe while committing to a multi-energy powertrain strategy to include hybrid and internal-combustion-engine vehicles.

The wraps come off the Suzuki e Vitara in Milan, Italy, while production of the compact SUV will begin next spring at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India with sales expected to begin in various markets, including Europe, India and Japan, by summer 2025.

It is based on the automaker’s eVX concept first showcased at the Auto Expo held in India and later at last year's Japan Mobility Show and uses the automaker’s BEV-specific HEARTECT-e platform.

Like its ICE forebears, the e Vitara is a compact SUV measuring 4,275 mm (14 ft.) long, 1,800 mm (5.9 ft.) wide, 1,635 mm (5.3 ft.) high and with a relatively long wheelbase of 2,700 mm (8.8 ft.).

However, with the heavyweight battery pack required to claim a 250-mile (403-km) range between charges, the car tips the scales at 4,178 lbs. (1,899 kg) in the all-wheel-drive version.

That said, the flagship model claims a healthy power output with 181 hp and 221 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) of torque.

Its powertrain features an efficient eAxle that integrates the motor and inverter, along with lithium iron-phosphate batteries designed for safety and reliability.

While a 2-wheel version is also offered, claiming 142 hp and 171 hp with 139 lb.-ft. (188 Nm) of torque, the brand’s ALLGRIP-e is an electric 4WD system featuring two independent eAxles at the front and rear.

It also has a Trail mode to handle rough terrain by applying brakes to spinning tires and distributing drive torque to the opposite tire, a limited-slip-distribution function.

Suzuki president Toshihiro Suzuki says: “The e Vitara is our first BEV, developed through repeated trial and error to create an easy-to-use BEV for our customers. In order to realize a carbon- neutral society, we will provide a variety of options, including BEVs, hybrid vehicles and CNG vehicles tailored to specific regions. Following the launch of the e Vitara, we will continue to expand our BEV lineup and propose mobility solutions tailored to the needs of specific countries and regions.”