Maruti Suzuki Eyes EV Dominance with New 3-Row MPV

Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch a new three-row electric MPV, internally codenamed YMC. This upcoming vehicle is expected to arrive by the end of 2026 and will target the mass-market family EV segment, aiming to replicate the company's success in traditional MPVs.

The YMC will be approximately 4.5 meters long and will utilize a shared platform and powertrain architecture with the Maruti Suzuki eVitara, a model co-developed with Toyota. This strategy aims to enhance economies of scale and maintain competitive pricing in the emerging EV market.

Manufacturing of the YMC will take place at Maruti's Gujarat facility, with a Toyota-badged variant also planned. A significant portion of the initial production may be allocated for exports to over 100 global markets.

Maruti Suzuki intends to price the YMC aggressively, potentially positioning it below the Kia Carens Clavis EV, which starts around Rs 18 lakh. The vehicle is initially aimed at family buyers before potentially expanding into fleet sales.

Industry experts note that while initial volumes in this segment may be modest, they are expected to grow as charging infrastructure develops and battery costs decrease. Maruti Suzuki anticipates the YMC will follow a gradual growth trajectory similar to the eVitara.