Motoring World (MW): Why is now the right time for Maruti Suzuki to enter the EV market, and what are your expectations from this segment?
Partho Banerjee (PB): Our customer research shows that charging infrastructure remains a key challenge for potential EV buyers. Therefore, we are establishing a comprehensive ecosystem with fast-charging infrastructure, EV-enabled service centres, and seamless after-sales support to enhance convenience for our customers.
According to our internal estimates, the Indian EV market is projected to grow tenfold over the next decade, and Maruti Suzuki aims to be a key player in this segment. Our fundamental objective is to make Battery Electric Vehicles inherently attractive by delivering an uncompromised ownership experience. This customer-centric approach will drive us to become the number one EV manufacturer within one year.
MW: How does the ‘e For Me’ ecosystem enhance the EV ownership experience for Maruti customers? How is Maruti Suzuki addressing charging infrastructure challenges to support EV adoption?
PB: The ‘e For Me’ ecosystem significantly enhances the EV ownership experience for Maruti customers through a thoughtfully curated approach. The ‘e for me’ logo itself embodies this philosophy, with its dual ‘e’ design representing both the e VITARA and Maruti Suzuki infrastructure (smaller ‘e’) alongside Mother Nature (larger ‘e’), representing a thoughtful fusion of symbolism and functionality.
While our ‘e for me’ Electric Eco-Solutions approach aims to address charging infrastructure challenges through a comprehensive strategy. This plan includes launching the e VITARA through NEXA outlets and the establishment of a fast-charging network across the top 100 cities. The goal is to ensure that, within these cities, a customer can find a charging point from Maruti Suzuki every 5 to 10 km. Additionally, we will offer smart home charging solutions and provide installation support to enhance convenience for our customers. The company is also working on preparing 1500 EV-enabled service workshops that will cover over 1000 cities. These workshops will be staffed with personnel who will be specially trained and equipped with the necessary tools to support all EV-related needs, including charging. Furthermore, the dedicated ‘e For Me’ app will serve as a one-stop solution for multiple charging needs, consolidating various Charge Point Operators (CPOs) into a single, integrated platform for unprecedented convenience.
MW: What key strengths of the e VITARA set it apart from competitors in India’s EV space?
PB: The e VITARA is a sophisticated eBorn SUV meticulously engineered on the dedicated HEARTECT-e platform to deliver superior performance. Its design philosophy masterfully integrates high-tech innovation with an adventurous spirit, manifested through bold, masculine styling, featuring R18 (18-inch) aerodynamic alloy wheels and a futuristic front fascia. The vehicle’s interior represents a pinnacle of technological and ergonomic design, featuring an immersive digital cockpit experience. An integrated digital display, complemented by a twin-deck floating console and a bespoke steering wheel, creates an environment that seamlessly blends functionality with premium aesthetics. Passenger comfort is elevated through meticulously designed seating configurations. Ventilated front seats and a best-in-segment 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat provide exceptional comfort. While the rear seating system offers unprecedented versatility with its 40:20:40 split configuration, ensuring adaptability across diverse requirements.
Safety remains a paramount consideration, and e VITARA is equipped with Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including standard seven airbags, all-disc brakes, electronic parking brake, tyre pressure monitoring system, and emergency call functionality. To ensure a seamless connected experience, the e VITARA is equipped with Next Gen Suzuki Connect that comes with over 60 connected features.
MW: What role will local manufacturing play in making Maruti’s EVs more accessible?
PB: Local manufacturing is a critical component of our long-term strategy. Our substantial investment of Rs. 3200 crore in a dedicated 2.5 lakh EV production capacity at our state-of-the-art Gujarat plant and India being the production hub for EVs underscores this commitment.
MW: Does Maruti Suzuki have plans for more EV models in the near future?
PB: Maruti Suzuki has a strategic plan for electric vehicle expansion and plans to introduce multiple EVs across different segments by the fiscal year 2030-31.
MW: How do you see consumer perceptions of EVs evolving in India, and what challenges remain?
PB: In 2024, electric vehicle (EV) penetration in the industry was only 2.4 per cent, with infrastructure challenges remaining a significant barrier. We firmly believe that as charging networks expand and accessibility improves, consumer confidence will grow, leading to a substantial increase in EV adoption. With a stronger infrastructure in place, the Indian EV market is poised for exponential growth. Over the next six years, we anticipate a tenfold increase in EV sales, rising from 100,000 units to 1 million units, marking a transformative shift toward sustainable mobility.
MW: Any books, podcasts, or resources you’d recommend that inspired you?
PB: If I had to highlight one particularly impactful book, it would be Liz Wiseman’s ‘Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter.’ What really struck me about this book is its clear and actionable framework for understanding leadership styles. Wiseman contrasts ‘Multipliers,’ who amplify the intelligence and capabilities of their teams, with ‘Diminishers,’ who inadvertently stifle them.
Book recommendations
- Maximise team potential: Learn how to tap into the existing talent within a group.
- Drive efficiency: Discover how to achieve more with fewer resources through effective leadership.
- Foster innovation: Understand how to cultivate an environment that encourages new ideas and energy.
- Attract and develop talent: See how a multiplier mindset naturally attracts and retains top performers.
