Maruti Suzuki to Launch New Electric MPV in 2026: Kia Carens Clavis EV Rival in the Works

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Introduction

Maruti Suzuki is expected to enter the electric MPV space in India around 2026, expanding its EV portfolio beyond SUVs. This upcoming electric MPV will mark Maruti’s first-ever electric people-mover, targeting family buyers and fleet operators looking for a spacious, zero-emission alternative.

While Maruti Suzuki has already made its EV debut with the e Vitara, its electric focus so far has remained limited to a single compact SUV segment, making the MPV a significant strategic expansion.

Maruti’s EV Strategy: Where the Electric MPV Fits

Maruti Suzuki’s EV roadmap has so far included:

  • e Vitara (compact electric SUV – first EV)
  • Future EVs planned on Heartect-EV and Toyota-shared platforms

The upcoming electric MPV represents:

  • Maruti’s first electric 3-row / people-mover
  • Entry into a new body style, not a continuation of compact/midsize EVs
  • A direct response to growing demand for electric family cars

This makes the MPV a diversification move, not an extension of an existing EV-heavy lineup.

Platform & Powertrain Expectations

The Maruti electric MPV is expected to:

  • Be based on a modified Heartect-EV platform or a Toyota-shared electric architecture
  • Use a front-mounted electric motor
  • Prioritise efficiency, range, and affordability over outright performance

Maruti is likely to tune the vehicle for:

  • Urban + highway family use
  • High passenger load efficiency
  • Competitive running costs

 Battery & Range Expectations (Segment-Correct)

Based on competitors and Maruti’s cost positioning, expected battery options include:

  • Battery capacity: 45–55 kWh
  • Expected range:
    • 420–480 km (claimed, MIDC)
    • 350–400 km (real-world)

DC fast charging is expected, though charging speeds may be conservative to control costs.

IN Comparison: Maruti Electric MPV vs Kia Carens Clavis EV

ParameterMaruti Electric MPV (Expected)Kia Carens Clavis EV (Launched July 2025)
Body TypeElectric MPVElectric MPV
Launch Timeline2026 (Expected)July 2025
Seating6 / 7 seater6 / 7 seater
Battery45–55 kWh (Expected)~51 kWh
Range (Claimed)450 km490 km
DrivetrainFWDFWD
FocusAffordability & efficiencyPremium features & tech
Price Band₹15–20 lakh (Expected)₹20–25 lakh (Ex-showroom)

 This makes the Maruti EV MPV a more value-driven alternative, while Kia continues to position the Clavis EV as a premium electric family car.

Design Expectations

Maruti’s electric MPV is expected to feature:

  • Clean, aerodynamic MPV silhouette
  • Closed EV grille design
  • Sliding or wide-opening rear doors
  • Emphasis on interior space and practicality

Expected Features

  • Large touchscreen infotainment
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • Connected car tech
  • Panoramic or large glass area (possible)
  • Multiple drive modes
  • Advanced regenerative braking
  • 6 airbags standard
  • Electronic stability control

ADAS may be limited or optional to keep pricing competitive.

 Expected Specifications (Provisional)

SpecificationDetails
PowertrainSingle-motor Electric
Drive TypeFront-Wheel Drive
Battery45–55 kWh
Range450 km (claimed)
ChargingAC + DC Fast Charging
Seating6 / 7
Safety6 airbags, ESC, ISOFIX
PlatformHeartect-EV / Toyota-shared EV
Expected Price₹15–20 lakh (Ex-showroom)

Market Impact & Why It Matters

An affordable electric MPV from a mass-market brand could have strong appeal in India, especially among joint families looking for a spacious and economical mobility solution. Such a product would also carry significant potential for fleet operators and commercial EV use, where low running costs are a key consideration. By entering this space, the model would directly put pricing pressure on rivals like the Kia Carens Clavis EV. If priced aggressively, Maruti could play a crucial role in democratising electric MPVs in the Indian market and accelerating wider EV adoption.

Rishabh Arora

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