The Great Electric SUV Debate: Is It Worth the Hype?
In the ever-evolving world of UK motoring, the Suzuki Vitara stands as a unique symbol of our times. With a rich history spanning five generations since 1988, it has carved a niche in the non-premium SUV market, offering a compelling blend of affordability, reliability, and practicality. But here's where it gets controversial: the UK government's push for electric vehicles (EVs) has led to a mandate that could potentially disrupt this well-loved SUV's journey.
The ZEV mandate, inherited by the current administration, requires car manufacturers like Suzuki to sell a certain number of EVs alongside their traditional petrol-powered models. For Suzuki, this means that for every two Vitaras they sell with a petrol engine, they must sell one electric version, or face hefty penalties. And this is the part most people miss: the government's well-intentioned push for EVs might inadvertently hurt the very cars that offer the best value and reliability for many drivers.
The New vs. Old Dilemma: Suzuki's e Vitara
Enter the e Vitara, Suzuki's first of four new EVs designed to comply with the mandate. While the petrol-hybrid Vitara is still available in the UK, starting at £25,499, the e Vitara offers a different experience. Priced at £34,049, it boasts a 61kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery, promising a range of 245 miles (or 264 miles in two-wheel drive). However, the reality on the road tells a different story.
Charging Challenges: A Time-Consuming Task
The e Vitara's charging capabilities, or rather, the lack thereof, are a cause for concern. With fast charging limited to 70kW, a 10-80% charge takes a whopping 45 minutes. On a standard 7kW AC charger, a full charge takes a tedious nine hours. In practical terms, I rarely saw the battery charge beyond 50kWh, and charging sessions often lasted over an hour. The air-conditioning's efforts to cool the 120 charging LFP cells only added to the drama, further reducing the already disappointing range.
Inside the e Vitara: A Mixed Bag
Step inside the e Vitara, and you'll find a spacious cabin with room for three adults in the back, adjustable seats, and a decent load bed. The Ultra model's interior exudes a sense of grandeur, with soft pleather-and-fabric seat covers and a large touchscreen seamlessly integrated into the instrument panel. However, closer inspection reveals some shortcomings. The storage bins are unlined and prone to rattling, the facia materials feel scratchy, and the touchscreen requires a firm, sometimes repeated, press to respond. The control logic is quirky, with issues ranging from an unreliable auto-release parking brake to a 360-degree camera system that won't switch off.
On the Road: A Mixed Driving Experience
The e Vitara's ride quality is firm yet positive, thanks to its MacPherson-strut front and multi-link independent rear suspension. It handles corners nicely, with a traditional steering feel, albeit lacking in feedback. The accelerator and brakes offer a good driving experience, with smooth progression and easy modulation.
The Verdict: Range and Charging Woes
The Suzuki e Vitara, built in India with a Toyota tie-up, seems well-constructed and equipped, including a standard heat pump. However, its main drawbacks are its limited range and slow charging speed. Over a 550-mile round trip, I incurred charging costs of £204, compared to just £63 for the existing mild-hybrid Vitara. This highlights the practical challenges and increased running costs of EVs, especially when using public chargers. The e Vitara's range, in real-world testing, fell short of the advertised 245 miles, with a practical range of only 175 miles.
The Bottom Line: A Thought-Provoking Question
As I ponder the government's EV policies, I can't help but wonder if the Environment Secretary's vision is clouded by an overly optimistic view of the world. Are we rushing headlong into an EV future without fully considering the implications for drivers and the environment? The e Vitara's story is a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to sustainable motoring. What are your thoughts? Do you think the push for EVs is necessary, or are there better ways to achieve environmental goals? Share your opinions in the comments below!
