EVs are gaining momentum in the Indian market, and this trend is clearing evident in the sales figures. Aiming to tap this growing segment, carmakers such as Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors and Toyota Kirloskar Motor are gearing up to launch three new electric midsize SUVs. The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV will be the first one to hit roads with official price announcement on 19th January, followed by the Maruti Suzuki e Vitara in late January.
The Tata Sierra EV will also make its way to showrooms in the next couple of months; however, its official launch date is yet to be announced. All three EVs will go directly against the Hyundai Creta EV, which is currently available within the price range of Rs 18.02 lakh – Rs 24.70 lakh (ex-showroom). Here’re the key details of these upcoming electric SUVs.
Toyota Urban Cruiser EV
The Toyota Urban Cruiser EV is essentially a re-badged version of the Maruti e Vitara, sharing its platform, powertrain, features and components with its donor model. This means, the EV will come with 49kWh and 61kWh battery pack options, delivering an expected range of over 500km per charge. The official teaser reveals that the Urban Cruiser EV will feature Toyota’s signature badge placed at the centre of a thick black trim that connects the LED headlamps.
Maruti e Vitara
The Maruti e Vitara will be offered in 49kWh 2WD, 61kWh 2WD and 61kWh AWD configuration options, delivering a claimed WLTP range of 344km, 428km and 394km, respectively. However, the dual-motor AWD variant is expected to join the lineup at a later stage. Positioned as a premium EV, the e Vitara will be packed with several advanced features including Level-2 ADAS, ventilated front seats, 7 airbags and more.
Tata Sierra EV
Based on the new ARGOS platform, the Tata Sierra EV is likely to borrow 65kWh and 75kWh battery packs from the Harrier EV. As this new architecture supports advanced technologies, the electric SUV is expected to come with the V2V (vehicle-to-vehicle) and V2L (vehicle-to-load) functionalities, Level 2 ADAS and 5G connectivity. Its range is expected to be over 500km on a full charge. The Sierra EV might receive a few EV-specific software upgrades and design changes.