Mahindra’s foray into the electric vehicle market has been a resounding success, with its BE 6 and XEV 9e SUVs experiencing brisk sales and demonstrating a strong appeal among consumers. Within just five months of their launch, these electric SUVs have already sold 20,000 units and accumulated over 93 million kilometers on Indian roads, signaling a major shift in consumer preference towards EVs.
Built on the INGLO platform, both models boast a real-world range exceeding 500 kilometers. Furthermore, DC fast charging allows for a quick charge from 20% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes, making long-distance travel convenient and practical.
Designed with a focus on space and comfort, these SUVs incorporate a flat-floor design and a longer wheelbase to maximize interior room. A spacious boot provides ample storage for luggage during extended journeys. The 5-link independent rear suspension, specifically tuned for the unique road conditions of India, elevates the driving experience.
Performance is a key highlight, with these SUVs generating 282bhp and 380Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. The top speed surpasses 200 km/h. Furthermore, they incorporate advanced features like Level 2+ ADAS, a triple-screen cockpit, a 16-speaker audio system, and self-parking capabilities.
The BE6 and XEV 9e offer substantial financial benefits to owners due to their low running costs. The operational cost ranges from approximately ₹1.1 to ₹1.8 per kilometer, significantly lower than comparable petrol and diesel SUVs. Mahindra estimates that over a five-year period, drivers could potentially save approximately ₹12 lakh compared to those owning traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. This savings is attributed to lower fuel costs, reduced servicing requirements, and available government subsidies for EVs.
The running cost calculations are based on electricity rates and the vehicle’s energy consumption. For instance, if home charging costs approximately ₹1.80 per kilometer, the annual fuel expenses would be about ₹36,000. With an average daily driving distance of 60 km and an electricity cost of ₹10 per unit, the running cost of the BE6 is estimated to be only ₹1.06 per kilometer.
