India’s Green Mobility Revolution: Launch of Maruti Suzuki’s e-VITARA and Local Battery Electrode Manufacturing

Table of Contents

Introduction

India has entered a decisive stage in clean transport. On 27 August 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated new green mobility projects in Hansalpur, Gujarat. The focus was Maruti Suzuki’s first global battery electric vehicle (BEV), the e-VITARA, and the launch of local hybrid battery electrode production at the TDS Lithium-Ion Battery plant.

This moment reflects India’s rising role in clean energy and its ambition to shape the future of global mobility. It is about cars and batteries, but also industrial policy, international ties, and national strategy.

Prime Minister’s Inauguration at Hansalpur

Hansalpur, already a hub for Maruti Suzuki, hosted the launch. The Prime Minister called it a milestone showing India’s ability to bring together technology, investment, and talent.

Thousands of workers, engineers, and policymakers attended. The event highlighted India’s readiness to move from conventional car production to advanced electric and hybrid systems.

Launch of e-VITARA: A Made-in-India BEV for Global Markets

The e-VITARA is India’s first fully made-in-India BEV designed for domestic and global buyers. Maruti Suzuki built it to match global standards in regions such as Europe and Japan where demand for clean mobility is strong.

By planning to export to more than 100 countries, India signals that it is not just assembling cars but producing advanced models for the world. The launch reflects the slogan: “Make in India, Make for the World.”

Local Production of Hybrid Battery Electrodes

The event also marked the start of domestic hybrid battery electrode production at the TDS Lithium-Ion Battery plant, a joint venture of Toshiba, Denso, and Suzuki.

Earlier, India imported most battery components. Now, over 80% of battery value will be made in India. This cuts import reliance, reduces costs, and strengthens supply chains. It supports Aatmanirbhar Bharat and positions India in the fast-growing EV battery market.

Policy Support and Industrial Expansion

The Prime Minister stressed that India’s manufacturing rise comes from clear policy choices:

• PLI scheme: Links incentives to output, drawing firms to build in India.
• Industrial corridors: Improve logistics and balance regional growth.
• Logistics parks: Cut transport time and costs, boosting export reach.

These reforms make India attractive for investors. Maruti Suzuki’s success in Gujarat shows the results of such policies.

India’s Emerging Semiconductor and Mineral Strategy

India is also planning ahead in semiconductors and minerals. Six semiconductor plants will be set up nationwide to cut reliance on East Asia and secure supply chains.

At the same time, the National Critical Mineral Mission will run 1,200 exploration campaigns for rare earths and other key materials vital for EVs, chips, and advanced electronics. Control over minerals and semiconductors will define future industrial strength.

India-Japan Partnership: A Model for Industrial Collaboration

From Maruti to Advanced Industry

The India-Japan partnership began in the 1980s with Maruti Suzuki and reshaped the car sector. Today it extends to batteries and semiconductors. Japan’s steady trust in India is reflected in repeated collaborations, supported by forums like the Vibrant Gujarat Summit.

People-to-People and Talent Exchange

The partnership also focuses on people. India promotes Japanese language training, youth exchanges, and skills programs. Firms such as Maruti Suzuki are encouraged to lead in these efforts. These ties create long-term cultural and educational links beyond trade.

Economic and Strategic Impact

Job Creation and Skill Development

The e-VITARA launch and electrode production will create thousands of jobs in Gujarat and across supply chains, from factory floors to research labs. Training will prepare young workers for skills in EVs, electronics, and advanced manufacturing.

Strengthening Aatmanirbhar Bharat

By making key components locally, India reduces dependence on imports. This is not isolation but strategic strength, allowing India to compete in global markets on its own terms.

Boost to Exports and Global Standing

Selling the e-VITARA in more than 100 countries raises India’s global profile. It shows India can compete with established auto nations like Japan, Germany, and South Korea. It diversifies exports beyond IT and pharmaceuticals.

Challenges on the Road to Green Mobility

Key hurdles remain:

• Expanding EV charging networks.
• Developing safe battery recycling systems.
• Competing with established global EV makers.
• Making EVs affordable for Indian buyers.

The speed of India’s clean mobility transition depends on addressing these points.

Long-Term Vision: India as a Clean Energy Leader

Hansalpur’s launch is part of a larger vision where India aims to lead in clean energy. By aligning policy, partnerships, and innovation, India seeks to dominate not just EVs but also semiconductors, batteries, and minerals.

This approach fits India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and proves that economic growth and environmental goals can work together.

Conclusion

The Hansalpur launch of Maruti Suzuki’s e-VITARA and local electrode production marks a turning point. It signals India’s shift from car assembly to advanced, clean mobility leadership.

With strong policy backing, close ties with Japan, and bold plans for semiconductors and minerals, India is preparing to lead in green industry. Challenges exist, but the path is clear.

Hansalpur will be remembered as the moment India declared its intent to be a clean mobility leader for the 21st century.

Key Takeaways Table