Overview

• Maruti Suzuki has released a first teaser of its Arena‑bound midsize SUV, reportedly called Escudo, which is positioned between the Brezza and Grand Vitara with expected 1.5‑litre mild‑hybrid and strong‑hybrid petrol options.
• Series production of the e‑Vitara is underway at Hansalpur after a flag‑off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with initial consignments shipping via Pipavav port to Europe and other markets.
• PhillipCapital reports exports are already rolling to 100‑plus countries and expects a domestic e‑Vitara launch in January 2026 with annual India sales of about 67,000 units.
• The e‑Vitara is reported to offer 48.8 kWh and 61.1 kWh LFP battery packs using BYD blade cells, Level 2 ADAS, and a claimed 500‑km‑plus certified range for the larger pack with 0–80% DC fast charging in about 50 minutes.
• Supply chain and capacity moves include TDSG localising lithium‑ion cells at 1.8 crore units a year with plans to add 1.2 crore, a fourth EV plant targeted for H2 FY26 adding 250,000 units, and a service network goal of 8,000 outlets by FY31.