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      Kia Carens Facelift Spied In India For The First Time – Or Is It Carens EV?

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      Kia Carens Facelift SpiedRecent developments at Kia’s stables suggest that the company is working on Carens facelift or it could be Carens EV tooCarens has been one of the popular premium MPVs on sale in India. Initially marketed as an RV, Kia Carens has shown great potential in people-mover segment. The company is working on a Carens refresh and test mules were spotted in South Korea some time ago. Now, Carens facelift test mules have been spotted in India for the first time.Kia Carens Facelift Spied In India For The First TimeIf we take Kia’s Indian portfolio, Seltos and Sonet were recently updated with new fascia and other design tweaks. Kia is on the verge of launching Carnival in India too, which is newer facelifted version of 4th Gen model. 2025 Kia EV6 was recently unveiled globally and is likely to make it to India.Leaving Carens the only model that has stayed the same (design-wise) since it was launched back in February 2022. With Carens facelift spotted testing in India, we can only grasp what the company is going for, in terms of design, from the rear. We can see an all-new tail light design with more aggressive appeal.These new tail lights get a more pronounced C-shaped design, reminding us of recently launched Mahindra XUV3XO. Going with Kia’s recent trends, tail lights will be connected by an LED light bar and will be advertised as ‘Star Map’ LED tail lights. There is a tiny possibility of this being a Kia Carens EV test mule too.Kia Carens Facelift Spied – RearKia is going for a subtle design revision. Unit spied in South Korea looked like it was a base or mid-spec variant as it donned a single-pod halogen headlight. Maybe like Seltos’ single halogen projector setup seen with lower variants. Revised front and rear bumpers, new alloy wheels, tweaked headlights and other changes are expected on the outside.Where features are concerned, Kia is highly likely to offer a panoramic sunroof with Carens facelift along with dual 10.25-inch horizontal screens on the dashboard. Primary highlight of Kia Carens facelift might be the inclusion of ADAS suite. Is Kia offering Level 1 or Level 2 driver assistance systems, only time will tell.When will it launch?Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Sitanshu who spotted this test mule in Delhi. Where powertrains are concerned, Kia is not likely to make any changes to Carens facelift and carry over existing setups. Kia Carens facelift could launch around the festive season or early 2025. We can expect a slight price hike when launched.Kia Carens Facelift Spied – RearThe 1.5L NA Petrol engine developing 113 bhp and 144 Nm mated to a sole 6-speed manual gearbox, 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine kicking out 158 bhp and 253 Nm mated to either a 6-speed iMT or 7-speed DCT and the 1.5L Diesel engine churning 113 bhp and 250 Nm mated to either a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT and a 6-speed torque converter will be carried over. More

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      3 Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied While Charging – Front And Rear LED DRLs On

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      3 Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied Charging. Images – Dr Khalid AgwaniWhile Mahindra XUV.e8 and BE.05 get charging ports on their sides, XUV.e9 coupe electric SUV is unique with charging port at the rearBased on the new INGLO born electric platform, Mahindra is launching a multitude of new electric vehicles. These include XUV.e8. BE.05 and XUV.e9 (Coupe version of XUV.e8). All these are under testing. Recently, a convoy containing all three of these SUVs has been spotted plugged at a mall in Udaipur, Rajasthan, showing interesting new details.Mahindra XUV.e8, XUV.e9, BE.05 SpiedFirst Indian automaker to sell electric cars in the country, Mahindra, is set out on a path to radicalising the premium electric SUV segment both here and the world. The company is launching five vehicles under XUV.e and BE sub-brands. First of these vehicles to launch are XUV.e8, XUV.e9 and BE.05.Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied Charging – Front LED DRLsA convoy of all three of these electric SUVs was recently spotted at an underground mall parking in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Thanks to automotive enthusiast Dr Khalid Agwani, we now have a new set of spy shots showing new details about three of Mahindra’s hottest upcoming electric SUVs – XUV.e8, XUV.e9 and BE.05.For starters, XUV.e9 looks like it is a much larger vehicle than XUV.e8. In the parking lot, standing side-by-side, XUV.e9 looks like it could be around 4.8m in length. Around the same length as a Toyota Fortuner. Mahindra XUV.e8 is almost the same length as its ICE counterpart, XUV700 as they share almost the same side and rear elements.Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied Charging – Rear LED DRLsFor reference, Mahindra XUV700 is 4.7m in length. Another thing to note is that the Mahindra XUV.e9 has its charging port at the rear on the left side. This is very interesting because the test mules of XUV.e8 didn’t have a rear charging port. So, the touted 80 kWh battery is likely to only be on offer with XUV.e9 and BE.09. Or probably even BE.07.Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied ChargingXUV.e8 is likely to only get around 60 kWh or 70 kWh battery and have a charging port on the side. BE.05’s charging port has been spotted before and is at the side. While plugged in, Mahindra’s EV test mules don’t seem to show a charging level indicator built into their DRLs light bar like Tata EVs do. Instead, there seems to be an LED indicator just above the port.Interesting new details!Both XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 share an identical fascia. However, XUV.e9 gets a more muscular bonnet which adds visual bulk to it, when compared to XUV.e8’s. Headlights are identical, with what seems like bi-LED projector unit and triple ice-cube LED projector fog lights with cornering function. Front parking sensors and front radar for ADAS are common between the two.Mahindra Electric SUVs Spied – HeadlightOn the inside, both XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 get a common triple-screen dashboard – one for instrumentation, one for infotainment and a third for front passenger. The third vehicle in this convoy of engineering samples was BE.05. A test mule of BE.05 was spotted in Leh Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh regions for altitude testing which we covered earlier. More

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      Mahindra XUV700 Electric 3 Screen Dashboard Patent Leaks

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      Mahindra XUV700 Electric 3 Screen Layout PatentedXUV.e8 (XUV700 Electric) three-screen layout will be a first for a Mahindra car and likely to be offered with other upcoming new-gen Mahindra SUVsMahindra is working on the electric version of XUV700, which will go on sale as the XUV.e8. Ahead of its launch later this year, design patents have revealed multiple new details. Latest confirmation is for a three-screen setup, which will be a first-in-segment feature.Mahindra XUV700 Electric – three-screen setupFrom one, to two, and now a 3-screen setup is on its way to become a mainstay in the Indian auto industry. In the mass market segment, Mahindra will be the first to introduce this feature with XUV.e8. Other upcoming Mahindra SUVs such as XUV.e9 and BE range are also expected to get a three-screen setup.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUVOnce a positive market response is confirmed, other OEMs are also likely to transition from the current two screen layout to a three-screen setup. However, there are likely to be variations, as seen with cars like Mercedes EQS 580, Cadillac Celestiq, Lucid Air, Audi A8, Porsche Taycan, etc .An upgrade to a three-screen setup seems relevant, as it significantly enhances the cockpit experience. As seen with the patent image, the three-screen layout of XUV.e8 covers almost the entire width of the dashboard. It is flanked by AC vents on both sides.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV SteeringFrom the design patent image, it appears that the three-screen layout has bezels in between the screens. The bezels are pretty wide and seem to have a grey finish. They could get a darker and glossier finish with the production model. The heavy bezels could have been chosen to provide adequate protection to the large 3-screen setup.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV DashboardFunctional relevanceA three-screen setup helps reduce clutter in the cockpit area. It matches the current trend of achieving a minimalistic profile for EVs, across both exteriors and interiors. Much of the physical buttons can be eliminated with a three-screen layout. The third screen is exclusively for the front passenger. The sense of roominess is significantly enhanced when most of the controls can be handled via the screens. Along with touch controls, users can also use voice commands for various features and functions.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV DashboardXUV.e8 – New headlamp setup and new steering wheelMahindra has also patented a new headlamp design and a new two-spoke steering wheel for XUV.e8. These new features will help achieve a clear differentiation with the ICE model. These newly patented features are likely to be available with XUV.e9 as well. XUV.e9 is the coupe version of XUV.e8.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV HeadlightAll upcoming Mahindra electric SUVs will be based on the INGLO platform. XUV.e8 will have a battery pack of up to 80 kWh. Power output could be in the range of 230 hp to 350 hp. XUV.e8 will be available in all-wheel drive configuration. Launch is expected later this year. XUV.e8 will take on Tata Harrier EV that is expected in early 2025. More

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      New Gen Jeep Compass Debut This year – EV Version With 700 Kms Range

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      Next Gen Jeep Compass EV RenderAll-new Jeep Compass will have significant upgrades including the transition to STLA Medium PlatformDevelopment of the new-gen Jeep Compass is in advanced stages. It is expected to be officially unveiled by the end of this year. New Jeep Compass will have an entirely new design, transition to a new platform and also get an electric version.3rd-gen Jeep Compass – Key featuresNew Jeep Compass is expected to have a sharper profile. Road presence will be a lot more robust and aggressive. The sculpted body panelling will be more pronounced, ensuring a nimble, agile character. The front fascia and rear section will be getting entirely new styling bits. The iconic slatted grille will be seen in a new format, in line with modern design aesthetics. Changes are expected across the headlamps, LED DRLs, bumper, fog lamp housings and tail lamps.Inside spaces will also see a major refresh with the new-gen Jeep Compass. A multi-textured finish is expected for the interior skin to achieve a livelier cabin experience. Tech upgrades will include an integrated screen layout and an extended list of state-of-the-art driver assistance features.New-Gen Jeep Compass – Platform shiftUpcoming new Jeep Compass will be underpinned by the advanced STLA Medium Platform. This new platform is already in use with newer versions of Peugeot 3008 and Opel Grandland. STLA Medium will be used for various C- and D-segment Stellantis models. The platform is designed to support various body styles and powertrains including ICE, hybrid and electric.Next Gen Jeep Compass EV PlatformUnderpinned by the STLA Medium Platform, the new Jeep Compass will acquire a larger size. While exact dimensional details are not available, it is likely that the new Jeep Compass will be positioned as a mid-size SUV. The new platform can accommodate vehicle lengths from 4.3 meters to 4.9 meters. The existing Compass model is 4.4 meters in length. The new platform supports a wheelbase of 2.7 to 2.9 meters. In essence, both C and D segment vehicles are supported.New Jeep Compass – Electric powertrainSTLA Medium Platform supports a 400-volt electrical architecture. It can be equipped with electric motors in the range of 220 hp to 390 hp. Battery packs of up to 98 kWh can be accommodated. With the standard battery pack, the range will be 500 km. A higher range of 700 km can be achieved with the performance pack. The range figures are based on the WLTP standards. These specs provide an idea of the capabilities of the upcoming new Jeep Compass.Another benefit that Stellantis claims with its STLA Medium platform is best in class energy efficiency. Energy consumption is rated at 14 kWh per 100 km. Users will also benefit from fast charging, with 20% to 80% achievable in just 27 minutes.New Jeep Compass will debut first in markets such as Europe and North America. As Stellantis aims to become carbon net zero by 2038, Jeep Compass can soon become an electric-only model in select markets. But in locations such as India, Jeep Compass will continue to be available with ICE powertrain options, as long as feasible.Source More

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      2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV Headlight Patented – Looks Slick

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      2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV HeadlightIn addition to its visual brilliance, the headlamp for XUV700 EV is also expected to offer enhanced visibilityAs seen with its newest models such as XUV 3XO, Mahindra is taking giant strides in design innovation and technology integration. Progressing on the same path, Mahindra has now patented a new headlight design. It is likely to be used with the upcoming electric version of the bestselling XUV700 SUV.XUV700 EV – Striking headlight designAs revealed via concept models and test mules, Mahindra’s upcoming new-gen EVs will be utilizing C-shaped lighting elements. The newly patented headlamp has a similar styling, with dual C-shaped housings. The ice-cube LED lights enhance the overall look and feel. The outer borders of the C-shaped head lamp housing could have the same colour as the exterior body paint. The complete headlamp housing has a triangular shape. It will be bordered with LED DRLs.2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV HeadlightMahindra’s newly patented headlight design for XUV700 EV has modern, futuristic vibes. Excluding the classic, timeless circular headlamps in use with Thar SUV, this new headlamp design is probably the most striking among all existing Mahindra SUVs.It is apparent that Mahindra is working to ensure that each and every element of its upcoming EVs has something exciting to offer to its customers. The company has to maintain its dominance in the electric era, something that calls for every minute design details to be carefully crafted.2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV Headlight. Image – SarthakAs is evident from the patent images, there are multiple LED projectors for low and high beam functions. Coupled with the LED DRLs, the new headlamp design can be a signature feature of Mahindra’s new-gen electric lineup.2025 Mahindra XUV700 EV HeadlightEnhanced safetyBeyond the distinctive and eye-catching aesthetics, the new headlamps are also likely to focus on enhancing safety. This can come via improved illumination and premium features such as cornering lights or adaptive headlights. These features will be especially useful during long distance, night journeys. Driver strain will be reduced, thereby reducing the risk of potential adverse outcomes.XUV700 EV – Refreshed exteriorsWhile sharing the same silhouette as the ICE model in most parts, the electric version of XUV700 has refined aesthetics. Front fascia has been completely refreshed with a new closed-off grille, bumper and a full-width LED light strip. Side profile gets a new design for the alloy wheels. Changes at the rear may depend on the specific variant.Mahindra XUV700 EV will be sold as the XUV.e8. Later, Mahindra will also launch a coupe version of the XUV.e8, called XUV.e9. All upcoming Mahindra EVs will be based on the advanced INGLO platform. XUV700 EV base variants are expected to be equipped with a 60-kWh battery pack. These will be offered with a single motor, in FWD format. Higher variants will have a dual-motor, AWD setup. Battery pack will be of 80 kWh capacity. Range could be around 400 to 450 km. More

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      Jeep Avenger 4xe Compact SUV Gets 4WD System – Two Electric Motors

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      Jeep Avenger 4xe debutsWith a 136 bhp 1.2L Turbo Petrol engine mated to two electric motors (one at each axle), Jeep Avenger 4xe gets 4WD capability for the first timeRevealed a couple of years ago, Jeep Avenger is one of company’s newest endeavours. At around 4.1m long, it is the smallest Jeep and has a good probability of launching in India. After revealing mild-hybrid petrol and fully-electric powertrains with a sole FWD layout, Jeep Avenger 4xe just broke covers packing 4WD for the first time.Jeep Avenger 4xe Debuts With Much Awaited 4WD SystemWhen you think of a Jeep, a tough SUV with off-roading capability is what crosses anyone’s mind. Rightfully so. Jeep is one of the most celebrated off-road SUV manufacturing brands. In recent times, Jeep has been incorporating multiple monocoque SUVs but all of them at least have 4WD options.Avenger 4xe debutsJeep’s smallest offering, Avenger, lacked 4WD capability entirely and faced criticisms from purists. Another criticism of Avenger is that it is the only Jeep not on sale in USA. Jeep is addressing one criticism as of now and unveiled Avenger 4xe with 4WD capability.Speculations suggest Jeep will launch a smaller SUV based on CMP platform shared with Citroen C3 Aircross. That vehicle could potentially take Avenger name and strike design and proportion similarities with global Avenger. Within Stellantis’ umbrella global Jeep Avenger has sister products in the form of Fiat 600 and Alfa Romeo Junior (used to be called Milano SUV).Avenger 4xe debutsHow does 4xe system work?New Jeep Avenger 4xe packs a 1.2L 3-cyl Turbo Petrol engine. This engine alone generates 136 bhp of peak power and sends this power to the wheels via a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Coupled with this engine, are two electric motors, one at each axle. Each motor is rated at 28 bhp and can deliver instantaneous torque, typical of EVs.Avenger 4xe Rugged LooksUp to 30 km/h, Jeep Avenger 4xe is always in 4X4 mode by default and has a 50:50 power distribution between front and rear axles. Between 30 km/h to 90 km/h, Jeep Avenger 4xe switches to 4X2 (front wheel drive) mode and rear motor is kept at standby and only comes to life when necessary.Avenger 4xe DashboardWhen cruising over 90 km/h, Jeep Avenger 4xe system completely disengages rear motor and defaults to front wheel drive to save on precious fuel. Jeep claims 0-100 km/h sprint takes 9.5 seconds and Avenger 4xe can hit a top-speed of 195 km/h.Increased off-road prowessWith the 4xe variant, off-road capability of Jeep Avenger is enhanced too. Ground clearance has been raised to 210 mm, thanks to new multi-link rear suspension with 4xe. Approach angle is increased to 22-degree, departure angle to 35-degree and breakover angle to 21-degree. Water wading capability is increased to 400 mm.Avenger 4xe InteriorsSnow, Sand & Mud, Sport, and Auto driving modes allow versatility and increase off-road prowess further. Jeep Avenger 4xe gets beefy bumpers, rear tow hitch and roof rails as standard, while all-terrain tyres are optional. It will go on sale in Europe by the end of 2024.Avenger 4xe Profile More

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      Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUV Makes Global Debut – 600 Kms Range

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      Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVKia has unveiled its latest innovation in the electric vehicle market, the Kia EV3, a compact SUV that promises to redefine the segmentDrawing inspiration from the brand’s flagship EV9, the EV3 is set to elevate the electric SUV experience for a broader audience, blending bold aesthetics with functional sophistication. The EV3 showcases Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, balancing nature and modernity to create a dynamic and harmonious appearance.Kia EV3 Electric SUV DesignThe vehicle’s exterior features vertical headlamps and the new Star Map signature lighting, which enhances its confident stance. The sleek roofline and muscular body design contribute to its powerful yet agile profile.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVInside, the EV3 offers a spacious, practical, and comfortable environment. The cabin, designed to accommodate five passengers, includes features such as a sliding table, multi-adjustable ambient lighting, and fold-back relaxation seats. The near-30-inch widescreen display integrates seamlessly with the dashboard, providing both drivers and passengers with intuitive access to entertainment and navigation systems.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVPerformance, Battery, RangePowered by Kia’s fourth-generation battery technology, the EV3 offers a best-in-class driving range of up to 600 kilometers on the WLTP cycle. The vehicle is available in two variants: a Standard model with a 58.3kWh battery and a Long Range model with an 81.4kWh battery. Both models feature a 150kW electric motor, allowing the EV3 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of 170 km/h.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVCharging efficiency is a highlight, with the EV3 capable of fast charging from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes. This efficiency is supported by state-of-the-art Battery Management and Cell Monitoring Units, which optimize energy use and enhance overall vehicle performance.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVAdvanced Safety and Convenience FeaturesThe EV3 is equipped with an array of advanced safety and driving assistance systems, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. These features, along with the new eDTVC Electric Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control, ensure a smooth and stable driving experience.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVKia’s Remote Smart Parking Assist and a 12-inch Head-up Display further enhance convenience and safety, allowing drivers to maneuver the vehicle with ease and keep essential information within their line of sight. The EV3 also debuts Kia’s i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking technology, enabling one-pedal driving for improved energy efficiency and reduced driver fatigue.Connectivity and EntertainmentKia has integrated a suite of connectivity and entertainment features in the EV3, including the new Kia AI Assistant, which uses generative AI to provide natural language interaction and support for various vehicle functions. The Premium Streaming service, powered by LG’s Automotive Content Platform, and in-car gaming options deliver a rich, immersive experience for occupants.Kia EV3 Compact Electric SUVCustomization options are abundant, with NBA team-inspired Display Themes and a variety of interior colour and material choices, reflecting elements of Air, Earth, and Water. Sustainable materials, such as recycled PET, are used extensively throughout the interior, aligning with Kia’s commitment to sustainability.Kia will launch the EV3 first in Korea in July 2024, followed by a European debut later in the year. The company plans to extend availability to other regions subsequently. The global campaign, titled ‘A Moving Power,’ underscores Kia’s dedication to innovation and sustainable mobility solutions. India launch of Kia EV3 has not been confirmed yet. More

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      Mahindra XUV Electric SUV Steering Patent Leaks – Octagonal, 2-Spoke, Digital

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      Mahindra XUV Electric SUV Steering PatentAn octagonal, 2-spoke format is in line with innovative steering wheel concepts being used with next-gen electric vehiclesMahindra is working on its next-gen EVs that will be underpinned by the INGLO platform. Some major design transformations have been seen with the concepts and the test mules spotted on the roads. Now, a design patent reveals that Mahindra’s upcoming EVs will also be getting a unique, sporty steering wheel.Mahindra XUV EV steering wheel detailsAt first glance, Mahindra XUV EV steering wheel seems familiar to that of Tata’s newer models. Especially the flat central section and the 2-spoke design. The steering wheel seen with Nexon and Nexon EV has an illuminated Tata logo. As the Mahindra EV steering wheel also has a flat central section, it is possible that it too could get an illuminated logo. However, there are no official details available at this point of time.Mahindra XUV Electric SUV Steering PatentOr, Mahindra could take a different approach by installing a small display in the centre. This could provide the driver easy access to critical information. The steering wheel has mounted controls on both ends. These could feature touch-sensitive buttons with haptic feedback.Overall, Mahindra XUV EV steering wheel has sporty aesthetics. It is something similar to the steering wheel seen with high performance sports cars and other luxury vehicles. The rounded octagonal shape has flattened top and bottom sections, something that will improve legroom for the driver. This will be especially beneficial in urban driving environments with heavy traffic. The unique shape of the steering wheel can also work to provide enhanced visibility of the instrument console.Mahindra XUV700 ElectricEnhanced ergonomics and safetyWhile the steering wheel has an attractive profile, it is also likely to offer improved ergonomics. This will be even more relevant for long journeys. The steering wheel should be able to provide adequate support to the driver’s hands. The flattened sides and dedicated grips should work to ensure optimal control with minimal effort. This can work to improve safety by allowing better control during emergency situations.Mahindra BE.05 EV Interiors SpiedMahindra XUV EV steering wheel will likely use advanced airbag systems that can deploy faster and work more effectively. We have already seen how Tata had worked on their new steering wheel and the challenges faced with integrating the airbag system. It is likely that a similar set of advanced techniques have been used for Mahindra EV steering wheel.Mahindra EV steering wheel – A key USPConsumer preferences are strongly in favour of sporty styling and hi-tech features. In that context, Mahindra EV steering wheel can emerge as a major attraction for the target audience. The steering wheel suits the futuristic design of Mahindra’s upcoming next-gen XUV.e and BE range of electric cars. As this design moves from patent to production, it will be interesting to see how it transforms the driving experience for Mahindra’s customers. More