India’s largest car maker, Maruti Suzuki, has been in the news for its plans of entering the EV segment. The automaker is preparing to launch a pure EV, called the eVX, which is currently in testing phase. This is the same car which was recently unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2024. New spy shots have surfaced into the internet, showing a SUV camouflaged in black wrap.
Apart from the spy shots, a YouTube video uploaded by Rolling Cars shows the eVX on Indian roads, revealing interesting details. The car will rival electric SUVs such as the MG eZS, the Tata Nexon.EV Long Range and the upcoming Mahindra XUV 3XO. While Maruti Suzuki has prioritized hybrid vehicles, the eVX will mark the automaker’s entry into the electric vehicle market.
Now, let’s jump on to the details of the car. The Maruti Suzuki eVX will be based on the YY8 skateboard platform, derived from Toyota’s 27PL platform. This particular platform is specially designed for EVs only.
Talking about the benefits of YY8 platform, batteries are integrated in the floor resulting in a much larger space in the car’s cabin. Due to the center placement of batteries, handling is significantly improved.
The eVX stands out from competitors such as the Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400. These EVs are based on the same platform as their ICE counterparts, limiting their interior space. In contrast, the eVX uses a new platform, resulting in a significantly larger and more spacious car. The eVX will not be a sub-4 meter car. Instead, it will measure around 4.3 meters in length.
The video also reveals a conventional headlight positioning, different from the current trend of split headlight setups. Notably, the headlight units boast triple ice-cube effect LED DRLs complemented by a mono LED projector setup.
A camera module can be seen on the windshield of the car indicating that the EV could come with ADAS. Additionally, cameras can be seen on the wing mirrors and front bumper, hinting at a 360-camera setup. The test car can be seen with a rather boring set of alloys wheels though.
Another important aspect to note is the placement of charging port on the side fender. The fender-mounted charging port may be less convenient than a centrally located port.
The eVX will come with all 4 disc brakes for enhanced stopping power. The door handle placement for the rear doors is done on the C-pillar, ditching the traditional placement. In the video, the car can be seen without any taillight with exposed bulbs and wires. We can expect a connected taillight as per the current industry trends.
Moving inside, the spy video offers a glimpse of a larger touchscreen infotainment screen. Unlike Maruti’s current 9-inch unit, the screen on eVX screen appears wider and shorter, possibly around 10.2 inches. Other expected features include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, powered driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control.
Regarding powertrain options, the Maruti Suzuki eVX may offer 45 kWh and 60 kWh battery variants with single or dual motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations. The 60 kWh configuration is expected to deliver a claimed range of 550 Km. The eVX will be officially launched in India by the end of 2024. A sub-Rs. 25 lakh price tag is expected.
