“Hybrids Will Drive the Transition”: PM Modi Backs Maruti e-Vitara Launch

Modi Flags Off e-Vitara, India’s First All-Electric SUV from Maruti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Maruti Suzuki’s first fully-electric SUV, the e-Vitara, on Tuesday in Hansalpur, Gujarat, positioning it as a symbol of India’s growing clean mobility mission. Calling Maruti Suzuki the “brand ambassador” of Make in India, he said Indian-made EVs will soon hit roads in over 100 countries. He also pitched hybrid vehicles as an essential bridge between traditional fuel and fully electric mobility, giving them a crucial place in India’s transition to a cleaner transport future.

Modi : Hybrid Ambulances and the PM E-Drive Scheme

Modi revealed that he had challenged Indian automakers to convert old ambulances into hybrids. Maruti Suzuki responded by building a working prototype in just six months. “These hybrid ambulances perfectly fit into our ₹10,900 crore PM E-Drive scheme,” Modi said. The government has allocated ₹500 crore from the scheme to promote electric and hybrid ambulances. The scheme also supports a wide range of clean vehicles from two-wheelers to commercial trucks in a push for inclusive clean transport.

Hybrids vs EVs: A Policy Tug-of-War

The push for hybrid vehicles comes amid an ongoing debate in India’s auto industry. While some states have proposed equal incentives for EVs and strong hybrids, critics argue hybrids are not zero-emission and shouldn’t receive the same benefits. The Centre has taken a more inclusive view. “We are backing all forms of clean mobility,” said Union Heavy Industries Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy earlier this year.

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India-Japan Ties Get a Clean Energy Boost

The PM also highlighted the launch of local manufacturing of hybrid battery electrodes by TDSG, a joint venture between Japan’s Toshiba, Denso, and Suzuki. “This is the first time battery cells and electrodes will be made in Bharat,” he said, calling it a major step toward self-reliance and stronger India-Japan relations. By 2030, Maruti Suzuki expects hybrids to contribute 25% to its revenue and EVs around 15%.