In a landmark moment for India’s automotive and clean energy sectors, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today flagged off the first batch of Maruti Suzuki’s all-electric SUV, the e-VITARA, from the company’s Hansalpur plant in Gujarat. This event marks the beginning of global exports of the vehicle to over 100 countries, including advanced markets such as Japan, Germany, France, and the UK, positioning India as a strategic hub for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.
The launch ceremony, held at Suzuki Motor Gujarat’s state-of-the-art facility, was attended by top dignitaries, industry leaders, and government officials. PM Modi inaugurated not only the export rollout but also the localized production of hybrid battery electrodes at the adjacent TDS Lithium-Ion Battery plant—a joint venture between Toshiba, Denso, and Suzuki. This move is expected to push domestic value addition in EV batteries beyond 80%, significantly boosting India’s clean energy ambitions.
“Today is a special day in India’s quest for self-reliance and becoming a global hub for green mobility,” said Prime Minister Modi during his address. “The e-VITARA, made in India, will now reach over a hundred nations, showcasing our manufacturing prowess and commitment to sustainability.”
The e-VITARA: A Game-Changer in Electric Mobility
Unveiled earlier this year at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, the e-VITARA is Maruti Suzuki’s first global strategic Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV). Designed for both domestic and international markets, the compact SUV boasts cutting-edge features, including:
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A high-efficiency lithium-ion battery pack
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Fast-charging capabilities
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AI-powered driving assistance
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Over-the-air software updates
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A range of over 400 km per charge
With a production target of 70,000 units in FY26, Maruti Suzuki aims to dominate the EV export segment. The Hansalpur plant, now fully equipped for EV manufacturing, will leverage India’s first Gati Shakti multimodal cargo terminal, capable of dispatching up to 300,000 vehicles annually by rail, ensuring swift and cost-effective logistics.
Global Reach, Local Strength
The e-VITARA’s export strategy is ambitious. Maruti Suzuki plans to penetrate markets across Europe, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa, with initial shipments heading to Japan, Germany, and the UK. This expansion aligns with Suzuki Motor Corporation’s vision to make India its global manufacturing base for electric vehicles.
India’s automobile exports have surged from ₹50,000 crore in 2014 to ₹1.2 lakh crore in 2024, and the e-VITARA is expected to further elevate this trajectory. According to Maruti Suzuki CEO Hisashi Takeuchi, India’s competitive electricity costs and skilled workforce make it an ideal location for EV production.
“We are proud to make India the cornerstone of Suzuki’s global EV strategy,” said Takeuchi. “The e-VITARA is not just a car—it’s a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and India’s rising stature in global manufacturing.”
Battery Ecosystem Gets a Boost
The inauguration of the TDS Lithium-Ion Battery plant marks a significant milestone in India’s battery ecosystem. By localizing the production of hybrid battery electrodes, the facility will reduce dependency on imports and enhance supply chain resilience. This development is crucial for achieving the government’s goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in the clean energy sector.
The plant is expected to create thousands of jobs and foster R&D in advanced battery technologies. It will also support the rollout of future EV models, as Maruti Suzuki plans to launch six battery electric vehicles by FY31, with EVs projected to account for 15–20% of total sales.
Infrastructure Synergy
In addition to the automotive announcements, PM Modi also dedicated ₹1,400 crore worth of railway infrastructure projects, including the doubling of the Mahesana–Palanpur line and the launch of new passenger and freight services. These upgrades will enhance connectivity to Mundra Port, facilitating faster exports and reinforcing Gujarat’s role as a logistics powerhouse.
A Vision Realized
Today’s events reflect a broader shift in India’s industrial landscape—toward sustainability, innovation, and global integration. The e-VITARA’s rollout is more than a commercial milestone; it’s a statement of intent. India is no longer just a consumer of global technologies—it is a creator, exporter, and leader.
As the first e-VITARA units roll out of Hansalpur and onto ships bound for foreign shores, they carry with them the aspirations of a nation determined to lead the electric revolution.
Sources: Times of India, Mathrubhumi, Economic Times, Fortune India, Sambad English
