Mahindra XEV 9e Launch: A new era of electric mobility

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution in India has just hit a new milestone with the launch of Mahindra’s flagship Electric Origin SUVs, the BE 6e and XEV 9e. Built on the INGLO architecture, these vehicles represent Mahindra’s commitment to setting global benchmarks in innovation, design and performance.  

The Mahindra BE 6e
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Crafting a new identity: Born electric SUVs 

Unlike conventional vehicles adapted to electric powertrains, the BE 6e and XEV 9e are born electric. This means they’ve been designed as EVs from the ground up, leveraging Mahindra’s revolutionary INGLO architecture. The result is a pair of SUVs that not only look futuristic but also can deliver cutting-edge performance and technology. 

The BE 6e is a sporty, youthful SUV coupe designed for those who crave adrenaline. On the other hand, XEV 9e offers a more luxurious experience, targeting customers who value refinement and comfort over raw performance. Both SUVs feature rear-wheel drive, which adds to the thrill of being behind the wheel. 

The BE 6e is a showstopper with its sharp design
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BE 6e: The thrill machine 

The BE 6e is the star when it comes to fun and agility. With its sharp design, it blends coupe-inspired aesthetics with the ruggedness of an SUV. The vehicle handles like a dream, thanks to a well-engineered suspension setup and precise steering dynamics. Powered by a 79 kWh LFP battery, it delivers an impressive certified range of 682 km (MIDC), making it a practical choice for long drives. 

Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the BE 6e’s ability to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds, thanks to its three-in-one integrated powertrain delivering up to 210 kW of power. The “Race” driving mode, combined with a race-ready digital cockpit, elevates the driving experience. Its tight 10-meter turning circle diameter (TCD) and brake-by-wire technology further enhance its sporty credentials. 

In the market, the BE 6e is poised to give tough competition to rivals like the Tata Curvv EV. With its engaging drive and futuristic design, it is not just a car but an extension of the driver’s personality. The one drawback? The coupe design does hamper the rear view and the second row is not very comfortable for tall passengers, but it scores big on driving dynamics. 

The interiors
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XEV 9e: A luxurious retreat 

In contrast to the BE 6e’s youthful exuberance, the XEV 9e caters to those who prefer luxury and elegance. Its design leans towards a more conventional SUV coupe with a bulky rear overhang that, while adding cargo space, slightly diminishes its athletic appeal. Inside, the XEV 9e delivers a plush experience with a wide cinemascope display comprising three 31.24 cm screens, creating an immersive cockpit environment. 

However, the green-grey material used on the dashboard and seat inserts might divide opinions. While it aims to be eco-friendly, it lacks the premium feel one expects at this price point. The ride quality of the XEV 9e is softer, making it a great choice for city driving but less engaging on twisty roads. Despite this, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h in a respectable 6.8 seconds and offers a range of 656 km, ensuring practicality for daily commutes and long journeys alike. 

XEV 9e’s design leans towards a more conventional SUV coupe with a bulky rear overhang
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Revolutionary technology with INGLO and MAIA 

Both SUVs are powered by Mahindra’s MAIA platform, which is touted as the fastest automotive brain in the world. The tech specs are truly next-gen, with a software-defined vehicle architecture, 220,000 DMIPS computing power, and 130 million lines of code. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chipset, coupled with 24 GB RAM, ensures a seamless and fast user experience. 

From advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to over-the-air (OTA) updates, the BE 6e and XEV 9e come loaded with features like augmented reality heads-up displays (HUD), Sonic Studio by Harman Kardon, and VisionX to ensure that every drive is immersive. The ADAS Level 2+ system, with Mobileye EyeQTM6, enhances safety by detecting pedestrians, animals, and other obstacles with precision. 

Add to that, the SUVs also come with a neat auto pilot parking function that you can operate from outside the car and control their movement with the key FOB.  

The BE 6e and XEV 9e come loaded with augmented reality heads-up displays
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Range and charging capabilities 

The BE 6e and XEV 9e offer class-leading ranges of 682 km and 656 km, respectively, with their 79 kWh LFP battery packs. Fast charging capabilities allow the battery to charge from 20% to 80% in just under 20 minutes using a 175 kW charger. For owners looking to prioritise affordability, a 59 kWh battery option is also available. 

The battery warranty reflects Mahindra’s confidence in its technology: lifetime coverage for the first registered owner and a robust 10-year or 200,000 km warranty for subsequent owners. 

Final take 

The BE 6e and XEV 9e mark a turning point for Mahindra and the Indian EV market. While the BE 6e is likely to appeal to younger, performance-oriented buyers, the XEV 9e targets those who value luxury and sophistication. Both SUVs promise to deliver an unparalleled driving experience, supported by advanced technology and a robust range. 

With prices starting at ₹18.90 lakh for the BE 6e and ₹21.90 lakh for the XEV 9e, these SUVs aim to redefine what Indian consumers can expect from premium EVs. 

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