Maruti Suzuki is all set to unveil its first electric vehicle (EV) this financial year, alongside a range of eco-friendly technologies like strong hybrids, biogas, flex fuel, and CNG options.
The company’s goal is to offer diverse, budget-friendly choices to cut down on emissions and fuel use.
In its latest annual report, Chairman R C Bhargava highlighted that supportive government policies could drastically reduce the sales of petrol and diesel vehicles, helping to cut emissions. He believes that India’s unique resources and socio-economic conditions call for a multifaceted approach to tackle this issue effectively.
As MSIL advances with Maruti 3.0, Bhargava emphasized the importance of technology development. According to The Hindu Business Line, the company is enhancing its engineering capabilities and urging vendors to strengthen their own engineering skills and reduce import dependency.
Maruti Suzuki is not just about electric cars; it’s pushing for strong hybrid tech, CNG, ethanol, and biogas vehicles. Bhargava noted that renewable biogas is carbon-negative and fully domestic, and the company has started testing biogas production, hoping for supportive policies.
While the Indian auto industry debates the merits of hybrids, Bhargava defended Maruti Suzuki’s varied approach compared to competitors who focus only on battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Although BEVs enjoy lower GST rates and extra incentives, hybrids face higher taxes, which hampers their adoption.
Currently, Maruti Suzuki offers two strong hybrid models—the Grand Vitara SUV and Invicto MPV—and plans to introduce its first EV this year. The company aims to roll out six EV models by FY31, depending on cost reductions and the growth of local charging infrastructure.
Even with the rise in SUV popularity, Bhargava emphasized the need for affordable small cars to drive market growth and attract new buyers. Maruti Suzuki Managing Director Hisashi Takeuchi shares this vision, aiming to make car ownership accessible to more Indians.
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