Mahindra Charges Ahead: Unveiling India's First Homegrown Electric SUVs - XEV 9e & BE 6e

From the dawn of India’s farm mechanisation to the journey of electric vehicles, Mahindra is a well-known name in Indian markets. The company has a rich history of collaboration and teamwork shared with companies in the UK, USA, France and others which has given a legacy of customer-understanding to the company. Driving through farms, the company has entered the FIA Formula E championship as well.

Keeping the pace of time, Mahindra has evolved as the world transitions to electric vehicles (EVs).  When it comes to the L5 electric vehicle segment in India, Mahindra holds a dominant 41.2% market share (SIAM). Moreover, Mahindra has sold over 100,000 EVs in the past 17 months, fueled by advanced products like the Treo Plus, e-Alfa Plus, and Mahindra ZEO. Their commitment to a sustainable future is further highlighted by the UDAY NXT loyalty program, offering ₹ 20 Lakh* driver accidental insurance cover to new EV buyers.  Today, we witness a significant milestone: the unveiling of India's first homegrown "Born Electric" SUVs – the XEV 9e and BE 6e.

INGLO: The Foundation for Electric Supremacy

The XEV 9e and BE 6e are based on the revolutionary INGLO Electric Origin Architecture. This platform marks a high-tech departure from the past, designed from the ground up exclusively for electric vehicles. INGLO is the "Electric Origin" philosophy which breaks away from the the limitations of existing platforms and forges a path for the future of electric mobility.

A key feature of INGLO is its lightweight, skateboard structure with a flat floor. This design principle, with high-density battery technology, maximizes the interior space. The design provides a roomy, comfortable cabins offering enhanced seating flexibility. The platform's modularity allows for the creation of diverse models, catering to a range of preferences – from the athletic BE 6e to the elegant XEV 9e, without compromising on performance or quality. Passengers will have a superlative driving experience – lighter, more agile, and incredibly spacious.

Range Anxiety? A Thing of the Past

INGLO tackles a major challenge for EVs – range anxiety.  With robust battery options of 59 kWh and 79 kWh, these SUVs offer a class-leading range, putting an end to worries about frequent charging. Furthermore, INGLO utilizes advanced LFP battery chemistry and standardized cell-to-pack technology. This translates to long-lasting durability, exceptional safety, and unwavering reliability.

But innovation doesn't stop there. INGLO boasts fast-charging capabilities, allowing you to charge from 20% to 80% in a mere 20 minutes using a 175 kW DC charger.  Whether you're embarking on a long road trip or navigating city commutes, INGLO ensures a seamless and stress-free experience.

Safety remains paramount, and INGLO prioritizes it with features like ultra-high-strength boron steel and reinforced frontal structures. This unwavering commitment to safety ensures the XEV 9e and BE 6e are built to endure, able to withstand extreme heat and rigorous crash tests, keeping you confident on every journey.

Thrilling Performance, Unmatched Handling

Exciting driving experiences await in both the XEV 9e and BE 6e, with INGLO providing a compact three-in-one powertrain including motor, inverter, and transmission for great performance creating power outputs in the range of 170 kW to 210 kW for rear-wheel-drive variants. The vehicles boast a semi-active suspension system for best-in-class handling, high-power steering, and brake-by-wire technology to deliver a smooth yet thrilling ride experience. In conjunction with this, INGLO will feature intelligent drive modes for turning the SUV so that it adjusts to the terrain accordingly at the touch of a button leaving the vehicle and driver in oneness.

A Glimpse into the Future: Technology and Design

While full specifications remain under wraps, the XEV 9e and BE 6e are anticipated to be technological marvels offering luxurious comfort. The XEV 9e might feature a futuristic triple-screen dashboard layout, while the BE 6e could boast a dual-screen setup.  Both models are expected to include a panoramic sunroof, a nearly square steering wheel with haptic buttons, and illuminated branding.  Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) controls are also expected to be integrated into the steering, along with toggle buttons and paddle shifters for regenerative braking.  The centre console designs are likely to differ between the two models, with the XEV 9e potentially offering a third screen for the front passenger.

The design language for both SUVs embraces a futuristic aesthetic, integrating sharp design elements tailored for modern EV enthusiasts.  The XEV 9e could feature a connected LED light bar at the front, complemented by vertical lighting elements, a closed grille, and a sleek bonnet adorned with Mahindra's new EV-specific logo.  In contrast, the BE 6e is expected to flaunt its unique identity with a BE logo at the front, alongside a design inspired by the XUV 3XO concept.

Both SUVs are expected to showcase bold character lines, expansive wheel arches housing 18-inch alloy wheels, and connected LED tail lights at the rear.  The BE 6e also distinguishes itself with a coupe-like roofline, enhancing its sportier appeal.

A New Era Dawns

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. is currently keeping all eyes on upcoming products, putting aside the dwindling sales of its only electric model, the Mahindra XUV400, as expressed earlier by Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director, Auto and Farm Sectors, Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. Thus, the XUV400, which sold 1,800 units, will not become the focus of the entire company in the electric vehicle market anymore. Rather, Mahindra will invest and allocate resources toward the two products, XEV 9e and BE 6e, which will have exclusive production lines at its Chakan set-up for these vehicles.

These products redefine electric mobility as India steps into a future where electric mobility is celebrated. They drag on by virtue of their own innovative INGLO platform, cutting-edge technology, and stunning design, ensuring the most exciting and cleanest mobility experience on Indian roads. In no time, we will be able to witness these officially unveiled; till then, we can rest assured that Mahindra will always remain ahead of the game, bringing life into the future of electric mobility in India.