Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated two landmark projects at the Suzuki Motor Plant in Hansalpur, marking a major leap in India’s electric mobility and clean energy roadmap.
The first highlight of the event was the flag-off of the Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara, the company’s maiden mass-market electric SUV to roll off the Indian production line. The inaugural unit is set to be exported to the UK, underscoring India’s growing role in the global EV supply chain.
The event was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Japanese Ambassador Keiichi Ono, symbolising Indo-Japan collaboration in the future of mobility.
“A Special Day in India’s Self-Reliance Journey”
Calling the inauguration a “special day in India’s quest for self-reliance,” PM Modi said the facility will export battery electric vehicles to over 100 countries worldwide, cementing India’s place as an EV manufacturing hub.
The e-Vitara, based on the 40PL dedicated EV platform co-developed with Toyota, offers two battery options – 49 kWh and 61 kWh, with the larger variant available in a dual-motor AWD (AllGrip-e) setup. Industry reports suggest a starting price of around ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom) once launched in India. It will compete with upcoming EVs such as the Mahindra BE6, Hyundai Creta Electric, and MG ZS EV.
Next Step: Hybrid Battery Electrode Plant
Following the e-Vitara launch, PM Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the TDS Li-Ion Battery Gujarat (TDSG) facility, a joint venture between Toshiba, Denso, and Suzuki. The plant will manufacture Li-ion battery cells and electrodes for strong hybrid vehicles, boosting India’s localised clean-energy ecosystem.
Strategic Significance
The rollout of the e-Vitara and the upcoming hybrid battery facility highlight India’s dual strategy of EV exports and sustainable domestic adoption. Together, these initiatives position Gujarat as a pivotal hub for the nation’s electric and hybrid vehicle transition.
