Mahindra has once again tantalized enthusiasts with fresh XEV 9e and BE 6e teasers, offering a glimpse of the production-ready versions of these highly anticipated electric SUVs. With their global unveiling slated for November 26, 2024, these models mark Mahindra's stride into the mainstream electric vehicle (EV) market.
The XEV 9e and BE 6e are part of Mahindra’s born-electric lineup, developed from scratch on the brand's INGLO platform. This dedicated EV architecture is a pivotal step for the Indian automaker as it positions itself to compete against a surge of rivals in the electric SUV space, including offerings from Tata, Maruti, Toyota, and Hyundai.
Designs True to Concept
If the teasers are anything to go by, Mahindra's design team has retained the futuristic aesthetic of the original concepts. Both models feature sharply contoured bodywork, aggressive cuts, and aerodynamic touches, creating a distinct coupe-SUV silhouette.
Key design elements, such as LED daytime running lights, flush-fitting door handles integrated into the C-pillars, and gloss-black cladding around pronounced wheel arches, have made their way from concept to reality. In an interesting touch, the BE 6e flaunts a glowing "BE" logo, while the XEV 9e showcases Mahindra's butterfly infinity insignia, emphasizing their unique identities within Mahindra’s electric lineup.
Not Just a Pretty Face
The function has followed form here. The BE 6e gets an indented hood scoop for aerodynamic efficiency, and both SUVs feature newly revealed alloy wheels optimized for airflow. Meanwhile, the lighting setup, including LED projectors for the BE 6e, underscores Mahindra's intent to push its products into the premium segment.
Inside, the SUVs are laden with tech. The XEV 9e has a triple-display dashboard setup that spans the cabin's width, while the BE 6e adopts a cockpit-style interior with dual floating screens designed to wrap around the driver. The BE 6e also debuts a twin-spoke steering wheel adorned with an illuminated logo, adding to its futuristic vibe.
Under the Skin
While the full technical details remain elusive, Mahindra has teased a competitive range of around 450-500 km, powered by two battery options: a 60kWh unit and a beefier 79kWh pack. Ultra-fast charging capabilities are expected, though the real standout might be Mahindra’s decision to launch both SUVs in rear-wheel drive initially, with an all-wheel-drive BE 6e rumored to follow later.
The Bigger Picture
For Mahindra, these vehicles are more than just new products—they're a statement. The coupe-SUV styling offers a refreshing departure from the boxy upright aesthetics of rivals like the upcoming Tata Harrier EV and Hyundai Creta EV. Mahindra is banking on a "wow" factor, with radical designs and a promise of high-tech interiors, to capture the imagination of consumers in this burgeoning segment.
As Rajesh Jejurikar, Mahindra's CEO for auto and farm sectors succinctly put it: "People buy wow products." With the XEV 9e and BE 6e, the company seems poised to deliver exactly that.
All eyes now turn to November 26, when the world finally sees whether Mahindra’s born-electric debut lives up to the hype.
