As Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL) gears up to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) in January 2025 at the Bharat Mobility Show, the company is not just introducing a new model but also a robust customer support ecosystem. This initiative aims to address key concerns such as range anxiety, charging infrastructure, and resale value, which have hindered EV adoption in India.
Hisashi Takeuchi, MD and CEO of MSIL, highlighted that the upcoming EV will feature a high-range capability of around 500 km, powered by a 60 kilowatt-hour battery. “We are committed to ensuring a seamless ownership experience for our EV customers, leveraging our extensive service network for after-sale support,” Takeuchi stated during the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) annual session.
Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer of Marketing & Sales, elaborated on the company’s vision for sustainable growth in the electric vehicle segment. “We have conducted thorough research and are focused on providing a complete ecosystem for our customers,” he noted. Addressing concerns about the residual value of EVs after five years, Banerjee emphasized the need for a structured approach to bolster consumer confidence.
Despite a recent decline in electric car sales, with August recording a 9.97% year-on-year drop, Maruti Suzuki remains optimistic about an uptick in sales during the upcoming festival season. Banerjee acknowledged that early adopters are crucial for new technologies, stating, “We believe that by tackling these three major concerns, we can foster sustainable growth and establish ourselves as a leading player in the EV market.”
With 95% of EV customers typically charging at home, MSIL recognizes the importance of reliable charging infrastructure, especially for intercity travel. The company is exploring holistic solutions to support customers, even in the event of a breakdown.
Looking ahead, Maruti Suzuki is also advocating for the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers to provide retail sales data, allowing for a clearer picture of actual consumer demand in the market.
As the Indian automotive landscape shifts towards electrification, Maruti Suzuki’s comprehensive approach could indeed be the catalyst needed to propel the country’s EV mission into the fast lane.
