Maruti Suzuki, India’s largest car manufacturer, is set to launch its first electric vehicle, the eVX electric SUV, later this year. However, there are other electric vehicles in its lineup as well, including an MPV with the code name – YMC.
Set for release in the latter half of 2026, Autocar India indicates that the Maruti YMC MPV will adopt the same platform as the eVX.
Notably, the eVX will have a skateboard platform co-developed by Suzuki and Toyota. Given this partnership, it’s likely that the YMC MPV will adopt the newly developed skateboard platform as well, called the 27PL.
What is a skateboard platform?
A skateboard platform is an exclusive platform for electric vehicles featuring an integrated battery within the vehicle’s floor.
Generally, the placement of the wheels at the four corners of the battery pack lends the platform the visual semblance of a skateboard.
In fact, this platform can adjust its length by adding or removing batteries, making it suitable for diverse vehicles ranging from small hatchbacks to large MPVs.
While the battery pack is the heaviest part of the EV, the key advantage of the skateboard platform is that it maximizes interior space as the battery pack sits low on the floor.
Furthermore, the low placement of the battery in the vehicle substantially improves handling and reduces the centre of gravity compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
All in all, most EV makers today aim to integrate the skateboard architecture into their vehicles.
Maruti Suzuki eVX electric SUV
Scheduled for launch in the latter part of 2024, the mid-sized EVX electric SUV has a codename – YY8.
The electric SUV is said to be equipped with a born-electric platform engineered jointly by Suzuki and Toyota and may come with two battery pack options: 48 kWh and 60 kWh.
Given that it has an impressive 550 km range and price likely to be around 20 lakh (ex-showroom), the car will likely compete with the Hyundai Creta EV and Tata Nexon EV.
Surprisingly, this electric SUV will not only cater to the Indian market, but the company will also export it to Japan and Europe.
A Toyota badged sibling will accompany the eVX. The Toyota electric SUV is set for launch around next year. The car is likely to have more premium features than the eVX.
Maruti Suzuki YMC electric MPV
The 3-row YMC electric MPV will share its platform with the eVX along with various other components.
Also, just like the eVX, the YMC MPV will come with two battery pack options: 48 kWh and 60 kWh.
Moreover, with the rapid growth of battery recharging facilities in India, Maruti Suzuki will look to introduce the YMC MPV as a cost-effective alternative to the Maruti Ertiga by 2026.
It is worth noting that Toyota’s 27PL skateboard electric architecture originates from the 40PL platform and will introduce a Toyota-branded eVX sibling in 2025.
The entry of Maruti Suzuki into the electric vehicle segment shows the brand is serious about sustainable mobility. Additionally, it fits well with the preferences of consumers who are now looking for eco-friendly mobility solutions.
