MILAN – Suzuki Motor Corporation today presented its first electric vehicle (BEV) model at the Allianz Cloud in Milan: eVitara. Production will begin at the Suzuki Motor Gujarat plant in India in spring 2025, while sales are expected to begin in various countries, including Europe, India and Japan, around summer 2025. The eVitara model is based on the “eVX” concept , unveiled in January 2023 at the Auto Expo in India and at the Japan Mobility Show in October of the same year and represents Suzuki’s first strategic BEV model globally. Based on the “Emotional Versatile Cruiser” concept, Suzuki eVitara is characterized by an assertive design that combines strength and innovation, a BEV powertrain that offers an agile and intuitive driving experience, an “Allgrip” electric all-wheel drive system -e” which provides not only off-road capabilities but also excellent performance, and a newly developed “Heartect-e” platform specific for BEVs. The eVitara’s design thread is “High-Tech & Adventure”, combining the cutting-edge look of a BEV and the rugged nature of an SUV. The exterior features an attractive design featuring large diameter tires and a long wheelbase, while the interior features an integrated display with advanced features and panels and center console with rugged upholstery, reflecting the “High-Tech & Adventure” theme. The BEV powertrain consists of the efficient eAxle (electric axle) system that integrates the motor and inverter, together with lithium iron-phosphate batteries designed to ensure safety and reliability. The system thus allows for smooth acceleration from a standstill and more decisive acceleration when overtaking from low to high speeds. Driven by two eAxles, independent electric axles, one at the front and one at the rear, the “Allgrip-e” technology is an electric all-wheel drive system that takes advantage of all of Suzuki’s experience in 4WD technology. This system not only provides high performance, but also allows precise control of the vehicle thanks to excellent responsiveness. Furthermore, it includes a “Trail” mode that allows you to smoothly exit difficult terrain by applying braking force to the wheels that slip and distributing the driving torque to the opposite tire (LSD function). On eVitara, the new “Heartect-e” platform debuts, developed specifically for BEV models, which features a lightweight and robust structure, high voltage protection and a spacious interior achieved thanks to short overhangs. The robust structure of the platform eliminates the need for strengthening spars, thus maximizing the capacity to accommodate battery cells. “The eVitara is our first BEV, developed through an in-depth process of continuous improvement, with the aim of creating an easy-to-use car for our customers. To achieve a CO2-neutral society, we will provide customers a variety of choices including BEVs, hybrid vehicles and CNG vehicles, tailored to specific regions. The introduction of the e VITARA represents a significant milestone in achieving carbon neutrality. After the launch of the eVitara, we will continue to expand our BEV range and offer mobility solutions tailored to the needs of specific countries and regions” said Cosi Toshihiro Suzuki, president of Suzuki Motor Corporation. Massimo Nalli, President and CEO of Suzuki Italia, also commented on eVitara and the forecasts of its impact on the Italian market: “I don’t yet know how much it will cost but the incentives, if there are any, could put a cut of 35 thousand euros plus VAT. If there is no price, the market and the competitors will, who are doing everything they can to stay within 35 thousand. Italy will be on sale from next summer, therefore by 21 September 2025”. “Our goal is for electric to become credible – adds Nalli – Today there are still few customers to whom we can suggest an electric car: they are those who have access to charging at home; those who can afford it; those who have a family daily that allows it. In the BEV context, it is an extraordinary car. For the first time, we are focusing on 4-wheel drive as a point of distinction from other competitors: it will not disappoint in the snow or even in mountain valleys.” The presentation of the eVitara model was also accompanied in the evening by a show on ice, the exclusive “Suzuki Ice Gala Show” event. photo: xp2/Italpress . xp2/tvi/red 04-Nov-24 10.33pm
