Japanese automaker Suzuki has unveiled its first mass production battery electric vehicle (BEV), the eVitara, which it says will be available in Europe, India, and Japan in the middle of 2025 – although there is no word yet on Australia.
Suzuki, which is owned in part by the world’s biggest car company Toyota, announced the launch of the eVitara on Monday in Italy, promising that production would get underway at Suzuki Motor Gujarat in India in the Northern spring of 2025.
Based on the company’s eVX concept model, which was on display at the Auto Expo show in Delhi in early 2023, the eVitara will be built on the newly developed Heartect-e platform which has been designed specifically for BEVs.
The European specification for the eVitara will include three variants – a 49kWh two-wheel-drive and two- and four-wheel-drive 61kWh options.
While no range data was made public, the company did reveal that the eVitara will be capable of putting out 106kW for the 49kWh base model, and 128kW and 135kW for the two 61kWh models, with maximum torque 300Nm for the top-of-the-line model, and 189Nm for the other two models.
Lithium iron-phosphate batteries will provide increased safety and reliability, and “nimble acceleration from a standstill and sharp acceleration during overtaking” according to the carmaker.
Suzuki has designed the eVitara to embody “the advanced feel of a BEV and the robust nature of an SUV” with large-diameter tires and a long wheelbase. Measuring 4,275mm in length, 1,800mm wide, and 1,635mm tall, the car boasts a wheelbase of 2,700mm.
Inside, an integrated display with dual screens for the instrument clusters and infotainment is matched by a three-tone interior and enough buttons and controls to keep anyone occupied.
Suzuki confirmed that the eVitara would go on sale in Europe, India, and Japan around the Northern summer of 2025, but there is no indication of if or when Australia might get a look in.
It was reported in June that Suzuki would introduce its first BEV in Australia in 2025, though first deliveries could potentially stretch out into 2026.
“The eVitara is our first BEV, developed through repeated trial and error to create an easy-to-use BEV for our customers,” said Toshihiro Suzuki is the representative director and president of Suzuki Motor.
“In order to realize a carbon- neutral society, we will provide a variety of options, including BEVs, hybrid vehicles, and [compressed natural gas (CNG)] vehicles, tailored to specific regions.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.