Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated Maruti Suzuki's electric car and battery manufacturing plant in Ahmedabad, marking a significant step for India in green mobility and self-reliance. The event saw the flagging off of the "e-Vitara," Maruti Suzuki’s first global battery electric vehicle (BEV), which will be exported to over 100 countries, including Japan and several European nations.

In his address, PM Modi highlighted the importance of the "Make in India" initiative, stating that the world will drive EVs that proudly declare they are "Made in India". He noted that the seeds of this success were sown 13 years ago when land was allotted to Maruti Suzuki, with the vision of making India a manufacturing hub.

The new plant will not only produce the e-Vitara but also manufacture hybrid battery electrodes for both domestic use and export. A joint venture between Toshiba, Denso, and Suzuki, the TDS Lithium-Ion Battery plant, will localize the production of these electrodes, significantly boosting the battery ecosystem in India. With this development, over 80% of the battery value will now be manufactured domestically, strengthening India's position in the global EV market.

The e-Vitara, which was first unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo in January 2025, comes with two lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) battery options: 49 kWh and 61 kWh. It will be available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations to cater to diverse market needs. The SUV boasts features such as sharp LED headlamps and DRLs, 18/19-inch alloy wheels, a fully digital instrument cluster, touchscreen infotainment, powered driver seat, wireless charger, JBL premium audio, a 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

The launch of the e-Vitara and the inauguration of the manufacturing plant are expected to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in India, where EVs currently account for approximately 3% of car sales. By positioning India as Suzuki's global manufacturing hub for EVs, the e-Vitara project is set to boost exports and enhance India's reputation as a leader in sustainable transportation.

PM Modi emphasized the government's commitment to promoting solar energy and other renewable sources. He mentioned efforts to encourage the adoption of solar power, including schemes for installing solar panels on rooftops. The shift towards renewable energy and domestic manufacturing of EV components like lithium-ion batteries is expected to have a significant positive impact on India's energy sector and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources.

The Prime Minister also expressed his vision for India to become a hub for green mobility and self-reliance. He highlighted that the production of the e-Vitara and its export to over 100 countries mark a major milestone in this journey. This initiative aligns with the government's broader efforts to promote sustainable development and reduce the country's carbon footprint.