Maruti Suzuki’s flagship electric SUV, the e Vitara, has achieved a 5-star safety rating in the Bharat NCAP (BNCAP) assessment, marking a significant milestone for the brand’s electric mobility efforts. Built on Suzuki’s new Heartect-e platform, the e Vitara combines advanced safety technologies, a robust body structure, and high-performance electric drivetrain options.
Advanced Safety Features
Level-2 ADAS and Airbags
The e Vitara comes equipped with level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and seven airbags, enhancing both active and passive safety for occupants. Key ADAS features include:
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Vehicle Sway Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Adaptive High-Beam System
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Structural Safety and Crash Performance
The SUV’s body uses over 60% ultra-high tensile and high-tensile steel, delivering superior rigidity. In Bharat NCAP tests, the e Vitara scored 31.49 out of 32 points for adult occupant protection. In specific crash tests:
- Front offset test: 15.49/16 points
- Side movable deformable barrier test: 16/16 points
Child occupant protection was also strong, with 43 out of 49 points, evaluated across dynamic score, CRS installation, and vehicle assessment parameters.
Standard Safety Equipment
All e Vitara variants come with:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Side Head Protection System (curtain airbags)
- Pedestrian Protection System
- Seat Belt Reminders (SBR)
Other advanced safety technologies in higher trims include hill hold control, ABS with EBD and brake assist, multi-collision braking, electronic stability program, active cornering control, ISOFIX child seat anchorages, 360-degree surround view camera, front and rear parking sensors, tyre-pressure monitoring system, auto-dimming IRVM, and emergency call (e-Call) functionality.
Battery and Performance
Battery Protection and Temperature Resilience
Maruti Suzuki’s advanced battery protection system incorporates an energy-absorbing structural design, ensuring safety during impacts. The batteries are optimized to perform efficiently in extreme temperatures ranging from -30°C to 60°C, supporting both domestic and global operations.
Battery Options and Driving Configurations
The e Vitara will be offered with two battery options:
- 49 kWh single-motor, front-wheel drive
- 61 kWh dual-motor, all-wheel drive (AllGrip-e)
This allows customers to choose between efficiency and performance. According to the WLTP test cycle:
- 61 kWh FWD: 428 km range
- 61 kWh AWD: 394 km range
- 49 kWh FWD: 344 km range
In India, the front-wheel-drive 61 kWh model is expected to launch first, offering over 500 km per ARAI ratings, while the dual-motor variant will follow.
Global Recognition and Export Plans
Interestingly, the e Vitara achieved a 4-star Euro NCAP rating, which is considered more stringent than BNCAP. Manufactured in India, the SUV is also slated for export to international markets.
Statement from Maruti Suzuki Leadership
Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO of Maruti Suzuki India, said, “The 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for e Vitara, our first battery electric vehicle, is a moment of immense pride. Bharat NCAP’s stringent test protocols empower customers to make informed decisions, reflecting our commitment to safety and innovation.”
