Electric vehicles have been in demand for quite a long time now. There are automakers who have already marked their entry into this segment. Brands like Maruti Suzuki is yet to launch an electric vehicle in the country. However, there were speculations that the homegrown manufacturer is likely to launch WagonR EV. The model was also seen doing test runs on multiple occasions in the past. The electric version of Maruti WagonR is already on sale in the global markets.
Recently, Northway Motorsport EV has modified a new Maruti Suzuki Dzire into an all-electric car. This model was purchased last year. The variant that we are talking about here is the petrol VXI. The whole modification was done in-house. After the modification, the model gets a 15-kW motor which can be extended up to 35 kW. The motor produces 170 Nm torque that goes up to 842 Nm at the wheels. Furthermore, a total of 3 battery packs have been developed for this model each mounted on the fuel tank, transmission tunnel, and extension exhaust area respectively. Talking about the battery pack on the fuel tank area, it is 13 kWh. While the one on the transmission tunnel stands at 15 kWh. The one in the exhaust area is 18 kWh. This is the first electric car to get a 5-speed manual transmission.
To make Maruti Suzuki Dzire VXI an electric car, the overall weight of the model was reduced by 3 kgs. The new electric Dzire now comes with a lighter flywheel and usable reverse gear. It also gets VCU compatibility and full integration with all car functions. Besides these, features like the instrument cluster, throttle peddle, power steering, all controls, ABS, airbags, and EBS remain unchanged. Talking about the AC system, the Dzire EV uses a Brushless Direct Current Motor. The radiator fan keeps the battery and other electronics cool. The instrument cluster gives all vital information about the electric vehicle. While the tachometer and fuel gauge give details about the motor RPM and battery level respectively. When the car ignition is switched off, the speedometer shows the SOC which further indicates the percentage of charge.
Talking about the charging of the New Maruti Suzuki Dzire EV, it can be done via a CCS 2 port. The vehicle can be charged up to 100 percent with the help of a 15-amp socket in just 8 hours. As of now, a fast-charging system has not been devised yet. When the Dzire EV is fully charged, it claims to offer an electric range of 250 kms.