India's top carmaker, Maruti Suzuki, doesn't have an electric car in its lineup yet. However, there's a buzz about a collaboration between Maruti Suzuki and Toyota to introduce their first electric vehicle in India. The Maruti Suzuki eVX has been seen testing several times and is expected to hit the market before its Toyota counterpart, which is based on the Urban Crossover Concept.
The Maruti Suzuki eVX Seen Testing Again
Although Global Suzuki has revealed the exteriors and interiors of the eVX e-SUV in concept form, the actual testing of the eVX has been ongoing both overseas and in India. Judging by the testing prototypes, it seems that the launch might take longer than initially anticipated.
However, the testing process is in full swing, with an increasing number of sightings of test mules. It's likely that the eVX will hit the market around the end of 2024. We now have a better sense of what to anticipate from the next Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV according to recent spy photos.
How Similar is the Production Model to the Concept?
The production model of the Maruti Suzuki eVX appears to be toned down compared to the concept version. It had a more sculptural and edgy look, with elaborate character lines that are hard to duplicate in mass production. However, the manufacturing model keeps the concept's basic outline.
The front fascia has moved away from sleek LED headlights to a more conventional style. The actual model has a more open grille, similar to that of a typical internal combustion engine vehicle whereas the idea had a closed-off grille. A radar module for an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) is also housed in the upper grille. This could potentially make the Maruti Suzuki eVX the first Maruti vehicle to offer ADAS, although the Grand Vitara might introduce it before the eVX launch.
The wheels are simpler compared to the aerodynamic ones seen in the concept model. Additionally, the rear-view camera and flush door handles seen on the concept have been replaced with conventional ones on the production-spec models. An interesting change is the placement of the rear door handle on the C-pillar. The side profile retains the design essence of the concept, including an almost three-box design.
The tail lights on the test mule were temporary dummy units. When the Maruti Suzuki eVX is launched, it will feature connected tail lights, a feature common in many cars today. A small rear spoiler, a modest bumper, and a shark-fin antenna are some of the other noteworthy elements.
As for powertrains, the Maruti Suzuki eVX e-SUV will be based on the born-electric YY8 skateboard, which is derived from Toyota's 27PL platform. Battery options are expected to include 45 kWh and 60 kWh units, with single-motor front-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive layout options. The range is estimated to be around 550 km on a single charge.