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      Indian Army’s Maruti Gypsy Modified Electric Version Spotted On Road

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      Maruti Gypsy ElectricMaruti Gypsy electric vehicle has been developed via a collaboration between Indian Army Cell, IIT-Delhi and Tadpole ProjectsOwing to its compact size, agile performance and off-roading capabilities, Maruti Gypsy has remained a preferred choice for the Indian Army. Even when Gypsy was discontinued and no longer available to the general public, Maruti continued to make the 4X4 Gypsy for Indian Armed forces. Other vehicles used by the army include Mahindra Scorpio Classic. Maruti Jimny is also expected to join the armed forces soon.With climate change now impacting one and all, there are efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of Indian Armed forces as well. One relevant example is that of conversion of Army-owned Maruti Gypsy into fully electric vehicle. A total of 10 units have been converted, as part of a pilot project. If things work out as desired, more orders can be placed for conversion.Maruti Gypsy electric spottedDetails about electric Gypsy were already available, but this is the first time it has been spotted on the roads. While electric Gypsy may not be suitable for active operations, it can be certainly used across civilian and cantonment areas. This latest sighting is from Delhi, although the exact location is not known.Electric Gypsy does not seem to have any major changes to its body panelling. Differentiating factors come in the form of a green paint job on the sides of the SUV. The term ‘Pure EV’ is also painted in green. Another change is the green number plate.[embedded content]Why convert petrol Gypsy to electric?One of the key benefits of converting petrol Gypsy into electric is the significant reduction in operational cost. Electric Gypsy has certified range of 120 km. A full charge costs Rs 120, which means operating cost is Rs 1 per kilometre. In comparison, running the same distance on petrol will cost Rs 1,200. As of now, only 10 Gypsy units have been converted into electric. If the same approach is used for hundreds of units of petrol-powered Gypsy, savings worth lakhs are possible every year.Conversion to electric also means an extension of the vehicle’s lifespan. This will help in reducing capital expenditure, allocated for procuring new vehicles. Environmental impact also has to be considered, as electric Gypsy has zero emissions. In comparison, petrol powered Gypsy has carbon emission of 3.3 grams per kilometre.Conversion of petrol-Gypsy to electric involves complete removal of the engine, fuel tank and linked componentry. The vehicle is then fitted with lithium-iron phosphate batteries and a PMS electric motor. This is likely a one-way process, as reconverting the vehicle back to petrol will be a cumbersome, time-consuming and costly affair.Maruti Gypsy electric has a 21.7 kW, 72 Volt battery pack. Torque output is more than that of the petrol unit. A full charge takes around 9 hours when connected to a 15 Amp charger. Maruti Gypsy electric has a top speed of 70 kmph. The cost of conversion works out at Rs 5,78,200 per unit. More

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      Maruti Gypsy Electric Showcased For Army – 120 Km Range, 30 kW Battery

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      Tadpole Projects developed Maruti Gypsy Electric can get up to 30 kW battery, enabling 120 km claimed range
      Maruti Gypsy Electric
      Army Commanders Conference (ACC) commenced on Friday, 21st April in Delhi. ACC is a biennial event and is one of the biggest summits where Indian Army conferences are concerned. ACC is conducted in a hybrid fashion for the first time. Where Army Commanders meet virtually and then physically meet at Delhi for detailed demonstrations.
      Maruti Suzuki Gypsy with retrofitted EV components was showcased at this event. Tadpole Projects is the startup behind this operation. The startup headed by Jawaad Khan is incubated under IIT-Delhi. Official website mentions Tadpole Projects primarily works with vintage cars and Gypsy. The EV conversion includes 30 kW kits enabling 120 km of claimed zero-emission drive.
      Tadpole Projects – What Do They Do?
      Indian startup Tadpole Projects promises an easy setup. The company promises original driving feel as it retains transmission of said vehicle. On its website, Tadpole offers four battery options. There are two 48V EV architecture options. A 1440 Wh module and a 1536 Wh module options. A 60V architecture option with 1920 Wh modules and a 72V architecture with 8640 Wh modules are on offer too.
      All battery modules get IP65/67 rating. They come with protection against short circuits, overcharges, and under-discharges. An option for a smart BMS is available too. Up to 30 kW EV kits and 1 kW to 37 kW (49.6 bhp) electric motors are on offer. Charging time is pegged at 2 to 6 hours. Tadpole promises a 2-year warranty on motor and a 3 or 5-year warranty for battery, extendable to 7 years.
      Maruti Gypsy Electric – Battery, Specs, Range Price
      The process involves swapping out engine components, locating suitable battery placement spots, installation of said batteries and connecting the existing drivetrain with an electric motor. This is a good way of extending the life of an old and unfit ICE vehicle. Instead of scrapping, individuals can opt for EV conversion kits like this if the vehicle is of emotional importance.
      There are benefits to EV conversions of old vehicles. For starters, this is a perfect way to extend life out of a prized possession. Like a special vintage car. Also, new vehicles only reduce tailpipe emissions and not emissions associated with manufacturing and energy production required for the manufacturing. EV conversions address both simultaneously.
      Significance Of Retrofitted EV Conversions
      Maruti Gypsy electric showcased to the military is of prime importance. It signifies re-using familiar and existing vehicles with zero-emission powertrains. The Indian Army is extremely familiar with Gypsies, disassembling and re-assembling them in a matter of minutes.
      Maruti Gypsy Electric
      Indian Army is likely to be procuring soft-top Jimnys in the near future. A part of the fleet can be electrified instead of retiring all unfit Gypsys. Similarly, civilians can consider EV conversions for old and unfit vehicles with an expired OEM warranty as well.
      Tadpole Projects More

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      New Gen Maruti Brezza Electric SUV (EVX Based) Render – Nexon EV Rival

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      With a range of around 500 km, the production version of EVX will make a compelling propositionNext Gen Maruti Brezza Electric SUV RenderWhile other homegrown OEMs have already fielded their EVs in the market hoping to take the first mover’s advantage, Maruti Suzuki, the market leader, thinks that there is still some time left before the switch to full-electric products becomes imperative. Nevertheless, the brand which has been successfully demonstrating its ability to read the Indian customers’ pulse for decades debuted its all-electric EVX concept at the Auto Expo, signalling its medium-term intentions.Harbinger to Next Gen Maruti BrezzaThe Maruti EVX previews the company’s new crossover design language which could form the basis for the Brezza’s spiritual successor. We hope, the critical 4m length limit which dictates excise duty benefits would eventually disappear in the all-electric era so the compact crossovers can be more spacious and practical than the current crop of conventional players.Maruti EVX Electric SUV Concept at 2023 Auto ExpoFor example, with a length of about 4.3m, the production version of EVX will be roughly the size of the brisk-selling Hyundai Creta. Upon launch, it will likely have to contend with the next gen Nexon EV, which will also be about 4.3 m in length. Then there is the Creta EV and Seltos EV in the making, which could also be potential rivals along with XUV400.Our rendering specialist Pratyush Rout has imagined the next generation Maruti Brezza crossover SUV based on the EVX concept. The production version, as the rendering points out, will be slightly watered down to emphasis on aerodynamic efficiency which is crucial when it comes to range. The new design language continues to retain the basic boxy character of Maruti’s current crop of compact crossovers. Salient design features on the front include sleek LED headlamps, almost non-existent front grille, boomerang-shaped foglight enclosures and an inverted trapezoidal air-intake.Next Gen Maruti Brezza Electric SUV RenderSmooth sheet metal surfaces, flush door handles, and pronounced rear haunches define the profile while we expect the concept’s continuous rear combination lamps and compact rear windshield to be carried forward more or less as they are. Maruti has not revealed the interiors of the EVX Concept but going by the global trend, one can expect the vehicle to opt for a simple dashboard dominated by several displays and state-of-the-art connectivity features.Powertrain DetailsThe production version of the Maruti EVX is expected to be the brand’s first grounds-up all-electric project. Details on the electric powertrain are scarce as of now but the crossover which is likely to be launched sometime in 2025 is like to pack a 100 to 150 kW electric motor supported by a LFP battery pack with a capacity of around 60 kWh. This should be good for a certified range in the ballpark of 500 km.The India-made Suzuki all-electric compact crossover will be a good candidate also in the overseas markets. In fact, exports are expected to account for roughly half of the EV’s production volume. Suzuki Motor Corporation will invest USD 100 million in the country to make EVs and batteries.Next Gen Maruti Brezza Electric SUV RenderMaruti is hoping that the current crop of affordable electric vehicles in India will lay the groundwork for acceptability among the customers by the time it is ready with its maiden zero emission product. The country’s charging infrastructure also should be more conducive in the next 2-3 years than it is now.Disclaimer – Design renders presented in this blog are solely for illustrative purposes and have not been commissioned, approved, or endorsed by the manufacturer. Designs presented here may not reflect the final product or the manufacturer’s intentions. The renders are provided as conceptual designs or artistic interpretations only, and their accuracy or feasibility cannot be guaranteed. More

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      Maruti Electric Car, SUV Launch Plans – Jimny EV, Fronx EV, WagonR EV, 3 More

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      Maruti Suzuki’s carbon neutrality goals will be achieved via a diversified portfolio that will include BEVs, HEVs and other green fuel optionsMaruti Suzuki Electric Car, SUV Launch PlansAnnounced at 2023 Auto Expo, Maruti Suzuki’s first BEV for Indian market will be launched in FY2024. Post that, Maruti will continue to expand its green portfolio that will include fully electric cars, hybrids as well as variants powered by CNG, biogas and ethanol-gasoline mix fuels.Maruti’s shift to greener vehicles is part of its parent company Suzuki’s plans to reduce its carbon footprint. Along with India, Suzuki is implementing its carbon neutrality roadmap in other markets such as Europe and Japan.Maruti Jimny Electric TeasedMaruti EV roadmapBy FY2030, Maruti will have 6 new BEV models in India. These will constitute around 15% of overall production by FY2030. Some of the possibilities that are most likely include Jimny EV, Fronx EV and WagonR EV. HEVs will constitute around 25% of overall production by FY2030. It is likely that some new HEV models will be introduced in coming years. As of now, Maruti offers a strong hybrid option only with Grand Vitara compact SUV.By FY2030, contribution of ICE-based cars will be around 60%. Even this lot will be cleaner than its predecessors, as it will comprise variants running on green fuels such as CNG, biogas and ethanol mixed fuel. Suzuki’s carbon neutrality goals will be different in India, as compared to that of other markets. That’s because India’s carbon neutrality goal is set for 2070. In comparison, Europe has set a target to become carbon neutral by 2050.Maruti Suzuki shares electric cars, SUV launch plans roadmap for IndiaIn Japan, Suzuki is aiming for a BEV ratio of 20% by FY 2030. Just like India, 6 BEVs will be introduced by FY2030. However, unlike India that will still have ICE-based models, Suzuki’s portfolio in Japan will comprise only BEVs and HEVs. The latter is targeted to have 80% share in production by FY2030. The first Suzuki BEV will debut in Japan later this year.Maruti Fronx Electric SUV design teasedIn Europe, Suzuki’s targeted powertrain ratio is just the opposite of Japanese market. Suzuki is targeting 80% BEV and 20% HEV mix in Europe by FY2030. The continent will be getting 5 new Suzuki BEVs by 2030.Tough competition from Tata, MahindraWhile strong hybrid Grand Vitara has proved to be a runaway success, it remains to be seen if Maruti BEVs can achieve similar results. India being one of the largest markets for Suzuki, it is apparent that its upcoming electric cars will be fully loaded and offer a comprehensive range of features. As of now, Maruti Suzuki market share is around 43.4%.Maruti WagonR Electric design teaserMaruti upcoming BEVs will be facing tough competition from the likes of Tata Motors and Mahindra that have revealed ambitious plans to launch a range of born-electric cars. Tata and Mahindra already have a head start with cars like Nexon EV and XUV400. Maruti is likely to keep focus on affordability, all while offering the best value to its customers. More

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      2023 Maruti EVX Electric SUV Debuts – 550 Kms Range, Creta EV Rival

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      Planned for launch in early 2025, Maruti’s first all-electric SUV is expected to offer range of around 500 km2023 Maruti EVX Electric SUVEV segment in the country is transforming at a fast pace, with several new launches planned for this year. Before born-electric cars become the mainstay, OEMs like Tata and Mahindra are busy launching electric versions of their bestselling ICE-based models. These affordable EVs are helping meet the rising demand for electric cars in the country.Maruti’s strategy seems a bit different, as it will start its EV journey with a born-electric car. Maruti’s first all-electric SUV will debut in early 2025. Till then, Maruti will continue to focus on petrol, hybrid and CNG powertrains. By 2025, other homegrown carmakers are also expected to launch their born-electric range.2023 Maruti EVX Electric SUVMaruti has always been associated with affordability and that USP won’t be lost with its born-electric cars. A balanced approach is likely in terms of features, range and pricing. 2023 Maruti EVX Electric SUV range is 550 kms with a 60 kWh battery pack, which is kind of a sweet spot in terms of alleviating range anxiety. Higher range won’t even be necessary in future, owing to improved charging infrastructure and ultra-fast charging options.For folks with limited budget, Maruti could also introduce a more affordable version of EVX. It will have lesser range of around 400 km. While the top-spec variant will have a 60-kWh battery pack, the affordable variant could be equipped with a 48-kWh unit. Maruti will be sourcing the battery packs from BYD. These will be utilizing LFP blade cell batteries that are claimed to be better in terms of range, power-to-weight ratio and safety. Maruti also announced INR 100 billion investment committed by Suzuki Motor Corporation for production of BEVs and batteries in India.2023 Maruti EVX Electric SUVSpeaking about dimensions, Maruti EVX electric SUV is 4300 mm long, 1800 mm wide, and 1600 mm tall. This makes it a rival to upcoming Hyundai Creta EV. While performance numbers have not been revealed officially, new Maruti electric SUV could deliver power output of around 138-170 hp. Both two-wheel and all-wheel drive variants will be manufactured at Suzuki’s plant in Gujarat. However, it is not certain if all-wheel drive option will be available in India. Around half of the production of EVX will be meant for overseas markets.Futuristic design, spacious interiorsIn line with evolving consumer preferences, Maruti will be utilizing an entirely new design philosophy for its EVX electric SUV and other born-electric cars. It will help compete with rivals like Tata and Mahindra, whose born-electric range will be just as radical and extravagant. A significant percentage of customers will be young buyers, which is where the innovation in design becomes more relevant. Aerodynamics will be a key focus area, as it will not only enhance the looks but also boost overall range.With its born-electric platform, interiors are expected to be a lot more spacious in comparison to a similar sized ICE-based SUV like Creta. Maruti EVX will be based on the 27PL platform, which is a tweaked version of Toyota’s 40PL global platform. Toyota will have its own version of the YY8 SUV.New Maruti EVX electric SUV is expected to be launched in the price range of Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. By 2025, it will have a lot of rivals to deal with. With affordable pricing and comprehensive range of features, Maruti EVX could emerge as one of India’s bestselling born-electric SUVs. More

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      Maruti Electric SUV To Rival Tata Nexon EV – Up To 500 Km Range

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      Expected to be launched in early 2025, Maruti EV will take on upcoming EVs from Tata Motors and MahindraImage for illustration. Credit – Power RacerAlthough late in the race, Maruti Suzuki appears to be finally stepping-up focus in EV segment. India’s largest carmaker will reveal its first all-electric model, codenamed YY8, at upcoming 2023 Auto Expo. It will be the company’s hero concept for 2023, on the same lines as Future-S was in 2018 and Futuro-e in 2020.Maruti YY8 will be manufactured at Suzuki’s production facility in Gujarat. The EV will cater to domestic as well as international markets. Around 50% of the production is expected to be allocated for exports. YY8 is being developed in collaboration with Toyota that is likely to launch its own rebadged version of the EV.Maruti YY8 electric SUV range, specsTo ensure a better fit for a broader segment of users with varying needs and preferences, Maruti YY8 electric SUV will be offered with 48 kWh and 59 kWh battery pack options. Respective certified range is expected to be around 400 km and 500 km. Power output is expected in the range of 138 hp to 170 hp. Both two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive option will be available. AWD will be available for export markets, but not certain if it will be offered in domestic market.As compared to Tata EVs that use conventional LFP cylindrical cells, Maruti YY8 EV will be using LFP blade cell batteries. It will be sourced from BYD, a leading China-based automotive manufacturer. Blade cell technology claims to be superior, in terms of its range, weight and space utilization. As more cells can be packed within the available space, blade battery can deliver higher range.Maruti Suzuki Gujarat PlantBYD also claims blade battery to be a lot safer than other battery technologies. It has passed the nail penetration test, with surface temperature being limited to 30 to 60° Celsius. Other extreme tests have also been performed such as crushing the battery, bending it, overcharging it and heating it in a furnace. Even then, BYD claims no fire or explosions were recorded.Focus on spacious interiorsMaruti YY8 electric SUV will be based on the 27PL born-electric skateboard architecture, which is derived from Toyota’s 40PL global platform. Its long wheelbase of around 2,700 mm will ensure spacious interiors and ample room to accommodate a large battery pack. YY8 will have short overhangs, in line with design trends seen in EV segment. Wheels will be placed towards the edges, as far as possible, which will allow for more space on the inside.It is expected that Maruti YY8 will be over 4.2 meters long, which is close to Creta’s 4.3 meters. It will have a futuristic design, unlike anything imaginable with the current breed of Maruti cars. As there will be quite a few rivals by 2025, Maruti will ensure that YY8 is equipped with a comprehensive range of hi-tech features.Launch price of Maruti YY8 electric SUV and its Toyota version is expected to be in the range of Rs 13 lakh to Rs 15 lakh. At this price point and loaded with features, YY8 has potential to emerge as another Maruti bestseller. However, competition will intensify significantly by 2025, as both Mahindra and Tata are working on their born-electric range.From the current set of electric SUVs, this new Maruti e-SUV will rival the likes of Tata Nexon, Mahindra XUV400, etc. At 2023 Auto Expo, Maruti will also showcase other products such as YTB SUV (Baleno based coupe SUV cross) and the 5-door Jimny. WagonR’s flex fuel prototype will also be in attendance. More

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      Maruti Omni Electric Van Future MPV – Render In New Colours

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      With a highly modular compact electric architecture, an Omni EV is technically feasibleMaruti Omni Electric Van Future MPV – RenderThe paradigm shift towards e-mobility could be a rare but wonderful opportunity for the OEMs to clean their slate and start afresh. This means an ailing automaker could execute a course correction and bounce back.Iconic automotive nameplates that are long forgotten could be totally reinvented with a modern take. Maybe, and we say only maybe, small cars, sedans and minivans could become cool again by overcoming the contagious crossover fever!Maruti Omni Electric VanIf at all there is an Indian automotive icon we would love to see in a neo-classic electric avatar, it is the Maruti Omni. Such was the popularity of the versatile and affordable minivan that it enjoyed considerable demand until the very last day. As most of you know, Maruti had to put the Omni down as it was nowhere close to meeting the new mandatory safety regulations.Now that a highly modular electric platform is pretty much the way the whole automotive world is heading, a Maruti Omni EV based on a future-ready Suzuki compact car architecture is technically feasible. It all depends on whether the company wants to do it or not. Anyway, we thought we would envision a funky Omni EV and leave it out there for you to ogle at (and summon the power of collective desire!).Maruti Omni Electric Van Future MPV – RenderOur rendering specialist Pratyush Rout started out by retaining everything that made the original Omni an astounding success – compact footprint, boxy shape, and the quintessential sliding rear doors. And as you can see, the Omni’s core design effortlessly adopts modern elements like LED lighting and aero-friendly features such as flush door handles, rear-view cameras and low-drag wheels.A simple and uncluttered dashboard with a generously proportioned infotainment display would make this hypothetical Maruti Omni EV a compelling urban mobility solution. There is no reason why the original minivan’s 8-seat configuration could not be retained. With a range of around 300 to 400 km, the electric people carrier would be immensely popular in rural and urban markets alike.Maruti’s EV gameplanThat said, Maruti Suzuki is not in any hurry to kick-start its electric era. Citing lack of infrastructure and support from the government in promoting e-mobility, the automaker has shelved its electric Wagon-R project which is initially touted to be ready for 2020. At least for the next 3-4 years, Maruti is likely to focus on its CNG and hybrid powered lineup, even if its rivals turn their focus towards electric vehicles.We think even if Maruti forgoes first-mover advantage in the compact electric vehicle market in India, it will still take a monumental effort by the competitors to breach the fort. And in the process of trying, they are likely to make the market conducive, only for Maruti to sweep in and retake control! More

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      Maruti Jimny Electric SUV Imagined As A Render – Up To 400 Kms Range

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      A fully electric Maruti Jimny is still a distant dream – We might have to wait for next gen version, before Jimny goes ElectricMaruti Jimny Electric SUV Render by SRK DesignsSuzuki Jimny has a very large fan base across the globe, including India. The cute little SUV, contrary to its miniature size, is a very competent off-roading vehicle. Its launch in India has been speculated for a long time, but it could take a while before we actually get a taste of the compact off-roader on Indian roads.Meanwhile, the boxy SUV has been digitally imagined as an electric SUV. This digital rendering has been created by SRK Designs and a video of the same has been uploaded on YouTube. As seen in the video, the pint-sized SUV undergoes a lot of changes on its skin giving it a completely different look.Maruti Jimny Electric SUV RenderFor starters, the rendered SUV gets a front fascia which features twin LED bars on both sides instead of the conventional circular retro-shaped halogen headlamps. A horizontal closed-off grille has replaced the signature vertical five-slatted grille while retaining the Maruti Suzuki logo at the centre.The front bumper has been reprofiled and now sports a redesigned skid plate and vertical LED elements on both sides of the bumper. Side profile remains more or less similar to the 3-door Jimny seen in international markets which feature flared wheel arches and a distinct character line running across its shoulder.[embedded content][embedded content]Alloy wheel designs are different with blacked-out machine-cut units making the SUV look even more premium. The flat roof and wing mirrors have been given a grey colour that provides a nice contrast to the overall styling. Range could be in the region of 300-400 kms on full charge.As much as we would love to see a similar fully electric version of Jimny reach production, there are no plans by the Japanese carmaker to electrify this compact off-roader. In fact, it doesn’t even feature a fully hybrid powertrain. But with the automotive world going electric, there is a possibility to see a Maruti Jimny Electric on the road. Upon launch, it might not have any rivals – unless Mahindra decides to launch Thar Electric.5-door Jimny DetailsMaruti is currently developing a new 5-door version of Jimny with a longer wheelbase. This version of the compact off-roader will be introduced in India and other international markets as well. Currently, the three-door version of Jimny is being manufactured at the company’s Gurgaon-based facility for export purposes only.The five-door Jimny is expected to be powered by a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine that produces 104 bhp and 138 Nm of peak torque. This unit should be paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox with the option of an automatic gearbox also likely to be available. International markets could receive a more powerful 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbo petrol engine with a mild-hybrid tech dishing out 128 bhp and 235 Nm of peak torque. A 4×4 drivetrain along with a low-range transfer car will also be offered as standard. Expect it to make its debut sometime next year. More