Maruti Suzuki to Localise EV Battery Production Ahead of e-Vitara Launch

India's largest automaker Maruti Suzuki is preparing to manufacture electric vehicle (EV) batteries and essential EV components domestically in the coming years, forming a key element of its approach to bolster the nation's electric mobility infrastructure and enhance consumer trust before launching its inaugural electric vehicle.

The carmaker is preparing to bring the e-Vitara to Indian customers in the coming year.

"Right now we are importing the batteries, but we do have a plan for localisation. It is very much on the cards and will be executed in a phased manner over the next few years," Partho Banerjee, senior executive officer (marketing and sales), Maruti Suzuki India, was quoted as saying in a PTI report.

Building Primary Vehicle Confidence

According to Banerjee, widespread electric vehicle uptake will only materialise when buyers feel assured purchasing an EV as their main family transport. At present, the majority of purchasers continue using electric cars as additional vehicles owing to worries regarding driving distance capabilities and availability of charging facilities.

"The initial products and customer experiences have created negativity, especially around driving ranges. With limited public infrastructure, buyers do not want to take a chance with an EV as their first car," he was quoted as saying.

Market Projections Under Review

The automotive giant intends to offer five electric models by the 2030 financial year. Forecasts suggest electric vehicle market share could reach 13-15 per cent of a projected 5.5-6 million passenger vehicle sector at that stage. Nevertheless, Banerjee indicated these estimates would undergo fresh evaluation following recent Goods and Services Tax modifications.

"There are reports that post GST 2.0, EV penetration is declining. We will reassess the market next financial year," he said.

Infrastructure Development Programme

The company's support strategy for electric vehicle adoption encompasses expansion to 1,500 EV-equipped service centres spanning 1,100 towns and cities. The firm has already established 2,000 charging facilities and targets approximately one lakh (100,000) charging stations by 2030 through collaborations with dealerships and charging infrastructure operators.

To tackle second-hand value concerns, the manufacturer is developing guaranteed repurchase programmes and subscription-based ownership models.

International Market Penetration

Export operations for the e-Vitara have commenced, with roughly 10,000 units dispatched to 26 international markets thus far. Banerjee emphasised that vehicle manufacturers must prioritise robust products, comprehensive after-sales support and complete ecosystem preparedness to establish buyer confidence and accelerate India's electric vehicle sector growth.