Maruti Suzuki India, the nation’s leading automaker, is revamping its manufacturing strategy to accommodate both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) models on shared production lines. This initiative aims to bolster the company’s adaptability in response to the evolving automotive landscape and increasing demand for diverse vehicle options.
The company plans to augment its annual production capacity by 2 million units by the fiscal year 2030-31, targeting a total of approximately 4.6 million units. This expansion will support a portfolio of around 28 different models, reflecting Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to offering a wide range of vehicles to meet varying consumer preferences.
Currently, Maruti Suzuki operates manufacturing facilities in Haryana and Gujarat, collectively producing about 2.6 million units annually. The Gurugram and Manesar plants in Haryana contribute approximately 1.6 million units, while the Gujarat facility, managed by Suzuki Motor Gujarat, adds another 1 million units to the production tally.
A significant development in this expansion strategy is the commencement of operations at the new Kharkhoda plant in Haryana. Initially, this facility will have an annual production capacity of 250,000 units, focusing on manufacturing the compact SUV Brezza. The plant’s design incorporates flexibility to produce both ICE and EV models, aligning with the company’s forward-looking approach.
Rahul Bharti, Senior Executive Officer (Corporate Affairs) at Maruti Suzuki, emphasized the importance of adaptable manufacturing lines. He stated that the company is increasingly configuring its plants to be more versatile, enabling the production of a broader range of models, including EVs, on the same lines.
This strategic shift is in anticipation of Maruti Suzuki’s upcoming launch of its first electric vehicle, the e-Vitara. The move underscores the company’s commitment to embracing sustainable mobility solutions and maintaining its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving automotive sector.
