Maruti Suzuki to Launch Electric Vehicles During FY25 to Support Eco-Friendly Technologies

Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest carmaker, has announced plans to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) in the current financial year. The company will also encourage customers to adopt eco-friendly technologies like strong hybrids, biogas, flex fuel, and CNG to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

Maruti Suzuki Chairman R.C. Bhargava believes that a diversified approach, offering various technologies at different price points, is the best strategy for India’s economic and social landscape. He emphasises the need to minimise petrol and diesel vehicle sales to curb emissions and fuel consumption.

The company is already making strides in alternative fuel technologies. Maruti Suzuki has started trial production of carbon-negative biogas and is awaiting supportive government policies for its rapid development. Strong hybrid vehicles, which can reduce fuel consumption by 35-45%, are another focus area. The company currently sells two strong hybrid models and plans to launch several more EVs in the coming years.

However, the automotive industry is divided on the path forward. While Maruti Suzuki and Toyota Kirloskar Motor advocate for rationalising taxes on hybrid vehicles to accelerate EV adoption, companies like Tata Motors and Mahindra & Mahindra believe that benefits from alternative technologies could hinder EV progress.

India currently offers incentives for EVs, including a reduced GST rate and state-level benefits. However, the rapid acceptance of EVs depends on cost reduction and the development of charging infrastructure.

Maruti Suzuki remains committed to serving a wide range of customers. While the company will expand its SUV and higher-cost car offerings, it also emphasises the importance of affordable small cars. These vehicles are crucial for attracting first-time buyers and sustaining the growth of India’s passenger vehicle market.

Maruti Suzuki Managing Director Hisashi Takeuchi envisions bringing car ownership to more Indians, recognising that currently, only 3% of the population owns a car. The company’s focus on diverse technologies and affordable options aligns with this vision of delivering “the joy of mobility” to a wider audience.

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