2024 Suzuki e-Vitara BEV world debut, four-wheel drive

In 2024, Suzuki introduced its first all-electric SUV, the e-Vitara BEV, marking the brand's debut in the electric vehicle market. As Suzuki's inaugural global BEV SUV, the e-Vitara is scheduled to launch in markets such as Europe, India, and Japan by the summer of 2025, with production being undertaken at Suzuki's facility in Gujarat, India.

Significantly, the e-Vitara is not only Suzuki's first electric SUV but will also be sold as a Toyota brand model, symbolizing the deepening collaboration between Suzuki and Toyota.

Engine of the e-Vitara BEV

The production version of the e-Vitara BEV is based on the eVX concept car unveiled last year. It offers two versions: a front-wheel drive and an all-wheel drive, each equipped with two different capacities of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.

• Front-wheel drive version: Equipped with a 49 kWh battery, it delivers a power output of 144 horsepower and a torque of 189 Newton-meters. With the optional 61 kWh battery, the power increases to 174 horsepower while maintaining the torque at 189 Newton-meters. Official range figures have not yet been released.

• All-wheel drive version: This version features a larger 61 kWh battery and an additional rear motor, which provides 65 horsepower, bringing the total power to 184 horsepower and torque to 300 Newton-meters. This powertrain configuration makes the e-Vitara one of Suzuki’s most potent models in recent years.

The e-Vitara's all-wheel drive system is named Allgrip-e and includes a Trail mode that simulates the function of a limited-slip differential, enhancing its off-road capabilities — a definite plus for those who enjoy off-road driving.

Heartect-e Platform

The e-Vitara is built on the Heartect-e platform, a collaborative development between Suzuki and Toyota, specifically designed for BEVs. This architecture employs a lightweight design and optimized structure to maximize battery capacity. Its compact overhangs and the lack of underbody bracing also enhance cabin space and vehicle stability.

Dimensions and Space

The e-Vitara measures 4,275 millimeters in length, 1,635 millimeters in height, and 1,800 millimeters in width, making it comparable in size to the Mazda CX-3, and categorizing it as a compact SUV. With a wheelbase of 2,700 millimeters, the interior is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate five passengers, making it ideal for family trips.

Interior and Technology

Although Suzuki has not yet disclosed the full list of features for the e-Vitara, glimpses into the cabin reveal a digital dashboard that displays various information including maps, integrated into a single unit with the infotainment touchscreen. The central console is streamlined, with physical buttons limited to the air conditioning controls, reflecting a more modern layout.

Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a wireless charging pad for convenient charging of mobile devices. Behind the console, there are two cupholders and controls for drive modes, off-road settings, downhill assist, and electronic parking brake. The steering wheel buttons suggest that the car will also feature adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.

Advancing Towards Carbon Neutrality

Toshihiro Suzuki, CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation, stated that the launch of e-Vitara is a significant step towards achieving carbon neutrality. He added that the introduction of e-Vitara will pave the way for a broader rollout of electric vehicle offerings from Suzuki across different regions, including hybrid cars, carbon-neutral gas vehicles, biofuel and ethanol-powered vehicles, catering to diverse market needs.

Looking Ahead

The launch of Suzuki’s e-Vitara not only marks a significant stride in the brand’s move towards electrification but also signifies a new phase in its collaboration with Toyota. In the future, the e-Vitara will be marketed globally under the Toyota brand, deepening the partnership between the two Japanese automotive giants in the field of electric vehicles.

In summary, the Suzuki e-Vitara BEV displays strong performance capabilities, innovative off-road abilities, combined with modern technology and a sleek design, showcasing Suzuki’s ambition in the electric vehicle sector. With its global launch, there is every reason to believe that it will attract significant attention to the international market.