Overview

• Maruti released the first teaser of its Arena-sold midsize SUV, widely reported as the Escudo, ahead of a September 3 debut with 1.5‑litre mild‑hybrid and strong‑hybrid petrol options and a likely CNG variant.
• Series production of the e‑Vitara is underway at Hansalpur, with units flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and initial shipments routed via Pipavav port to markets including the UK, Germany, Norway, France and the Netherlands.
• The e‑Vitara will offer BYD‑sourced LFP battery choices of about 48.8 kWh and 61.1 kWh, with the larger pack claimed to deliver over 500 km of certified range, plus features such as Level 2 ADAS and a 10.25‑inch infotainment system.
• Domestic rollout is expected after the export push, with reports pointing to a price announcement before year‑end and retail in India targeted for late 2025 to early 2026.
• Brokerage PhillipCapital kept a Buy on Maruti Suzuki with a Rs 16,899 target, citing e‑Vitara production, over‑100% Hansalpur utilization, a fourth EV plant due in H2 FY26, and localisation progress at the TDSG battery JV, as rivals line up launches like Volkswagen’s Tayron around Diwali and Tata’s Sierra EV later this year as reported.