The influx of new energy vehicles (NEV) in the Philippines is continuously gaining traction, as car brands introduce their respective electric vehicle (EV), hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), among others. As such, Suzuki Philippines intends to further expand its NEV model lineup, with the possible launch of the e-Vitara all-electric crossover SUV.
Previously, the e-Vitara was listed among the Department of Energy’s (DOE) recognized EVs, which is accompanied by a full spec sheet. This alone points to the possibility that Suzuki Philippines could be preparing to launch the said EV in the market soon. As a reminder, the Suzuki e-Vitara is the platform sibling of the already launched Toyota Urban Cruiser EV.
Now, the Suzuki e-Vitara has secured a homologation document from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), which is another sign that it could indeed be inching closer to its Philippine debut. The information in the LTO homologation document matches the information that was initially uploaded on the DOE’s official website.
The e-Vitara’s dimensions match the information listed on the LTO document. It measures 4,275mm long, 1,800mm wide, and 1,635mm tall, along with a wheelbase of 2,700mm. But the ground clearance shown on the LTO document is 160mm rather than 180mm. The Suzuki e-Vitara could also most likely come with a set of 18-inch wheels.
The Suzuki e-Vitara also comes with a 61.1 kWh battery capacity, along with a powertrain that can generate 171 horsepower, and a maximum range of 426 kilometers. Speaking of the range, the Suzuki e-Vitara has less electric range compared to its platform sibling, the Toyota Urban Cruiser. Toyota’s EV can do up to 475 kilometers of EV range on a single charge.
With the LTO homologation document already secured, it seems that the Suzuki e-Vitara’s Philippine debut is coming soon. However, Suzuki PH has yet to release an official statement on whether it will be adding the e-Vitara to its model lineup.
Autocar’s Take
It seems that Suzuki Philippines could indeed be preparing for the local debut of the e-Vitara. If true, this move makes total sense so that Suzuki PH could have a challenger in the growing EV market. And if we look at the calendar, there’s a major auto show that’s coming up in the country, which is the Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS). Suzuki PH could use it as the e-Vitara’s stage for its local debut. For context, the upcoming PIMS is scheduled in June, and CAMPI car brand members will most likely be participating at the said show, including Toyota, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Honda, among others.
