More stories

  • in

    Mahindra XUV400 Electric Sunroof Spied – New Spy Shots

    Mahindra XUV400 is likely to get high-energy-dense NMC cells from LG Chem to rival LFP cells on Nexon EVMahindra XUV400 Electric SpiedMahindra is on the rise to establish itself as India’s leading EV manufacturer. They unveiled 5 electric SUV concepts last month. Each one is set to make a lot more bang than the other. Mahindra basically wants to rain EVs with its strategic partnership with VW to license their proprietary scalable MEB EV architecture.The fruits of this partnership though, will maybe ripen in 2023 and later. But in the meantime, Mahindra can’t just let Tata eat the EV cake by itself as Nexon EV accounts to 85% of 4W EV segment. In that light, we will see the reveal of XUV400 Electric based on SsangYong Tivoli’s original dimensions of 4.2m. Latest spy shots confirm the presence of a sunroof.Mahindra XUV400 Electric SunroofIn the previous teaser, we got to see a brief glimpse of XUV400 Electric’s front fascia. That’s it. As we said, it was brief. But looking at that teaser, it could be instantly deduced that it was similar to XUV300 Electric concept that was showcased at 2020 Auto Expo. It has a similar headlight design and also gets boomerang-shaped LED DRLs that look nice.The main highlight of this teaser is XUV400’s profile. It retains Ssangyong Tivoli’s original 4.2m length which was reduced to fit a 4m constraint to fit it into B-segment. But EVs don’t benefit from this hack at all. Hence, the retained dimensions. With a 4.2m length, XUV400 Electric comes off as a much more proportionate and handsome design.[embedded content][embedded content]This length also allows Mahindra to offer a larger boot which was the Achilles Heal of XUV300. 17” wheels are also likely to be carried over from XUV300. Another missing feature on XUV300 was rear AC vents which is also likely to be offered with XUV400 Electric. Latest spy video from PowerStroke PS confirms the presence of a sunroof in the new Electric XUV400.Specs & PricingThe MEB platform sourced from VW named INGLO will not be offered with XUV400. But all five EVs that Mahindra showcased on August 15th, will be based on this new platform. XUV400 Electric is likely to get NMC cells sourced from LG Chem and are considered superior to LFP cells that are used on its stark rival Nexon EV Prime and Nexon EV Max.We can expect around 150 bhp of power along with 400 km of claimed range and 300 km of real-world range from around 40 to 45 kWh battery pack. But Mahindra being Mahindra, we can expect a tonne of features too. We’re talking about a large touchscreen infotainment with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a sunroof, wireless phone charger, ADAS features, dual-zone climate control, 7 airbags and a lot more.There are also speculations about two battery pack options like we have with Nexon EV. XUV400 is likely to slot between Nexon EVs and MG ZS EV. Pricing can be in the ballpark of Rs. 15 to 20 lakh (ex-sh). Nexon EV Max is priced from Rs 18.34 lakh to Rs 19.84 lakh. Whereas, MG ZS EV is priced from Rs 21.99 lakh. More details will be unveiled on 8th September. More

  • in

    New Volkswagen Electric Car Spied Near Pune – 2023 Launch?

    VW ID.4 could get different powertrain options with a RWD or an AWD variant when launched in IndiaNew Volkswagen Electric Car Spied – ID.4 GTXVolkswagen was in the news recently as it is providing a license to Mahindra for its proprietary MEB platform. Mahindra calls it the INGLO platform and the five electric cars that were showcased on August 15th, will be based on this platform. Mahindra is the second customer for Volkswagen for their MEB platform after Ford.But Volkswagen also seems to be eyeing the growing EV popularity in India. If they are supplying Mahindra with MEB components in India, they might as well launch a vehicle with that very platform in India that might set a precedent for future OEMs that might source MEB platforms from Volkswagen Groups.In that regard, we have seen Skoda Enyaq iV 80X variant with 77 kWh battery undergoing testing on road in Pune, Maharashtra. But now, we also have spotted VW ID.4 GTX that also gets the same 77 kWh battery too. Let’s take a look.New Volkswagen Electric Car SpiedRecently spotted, the ID.4 GTX is the high-performance variant. ID.4 looks just like the rest of Volkswagen’s ID lineup. It is based on VW’s ID Crozz concept that was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. It is currently manufactured in Chattanooga, USA and also in China outside Germany.New Volkswagen Electric Car Spied – ID.4 GTXThe GTX variant that is spotted in India is instantly recognisable with its red shade with its interesting dual-tone alloy wheels. These wheels are 20” though which is a size larger than Skoda Enyaq’s 19”. Volkswagen always positions itself as the premium offering above Skoda and below Audi. Speaking of Audi, Q4 e-tron is also the same car underneath too along with Skoda Enyaq.New Volkswagen Electric Car Spied – ID.4 GTXBoth VW ID.4 GTX and Skoda Enyaq iV 80X are spotted testing in India completely undisguised. Imports are generally not camouflaged while testing, as we saw with the ID.4’s rival Kia EV6. But that generally doesn’t mean that a launch is imminent. Manufacturers might also be testing only some of their components or their powertrain.Mahindra’s INGLO platform is based on VW’s MEB global scalable platform. This platform also underpins VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq too. It is likely that they are testing this platform for Indian conditions with both these test mules.New Volkswagen Electric Car Spied – ID.4 GTXSpecs & PricingBecause they’re imports, we’re likely to only get top-spec trims like GTX on ID.4 and 80X on Enyaq. VW ID.4 GTX gets a 77 kWh battery pack that is capable of dishing out 302 bhp. Claimed range is 418 km for North American markets and 522 km in WLTP cycle. ID.4 is 4,584mm long and has 2,765mm of wheelbase. Which makes it roughly the size of Harrier and the likes. ID.5 is a coupe variant of ID.4 and is slightly longer.Volkswagen Electric Car ID.4 GTX is likely to get the same set of features that the global model gets. When launched, ID.4 GTX will rival Kia EV6, recently launched Volvo XC40 Recharge and upcoming Ioniq 5 along with ID.4’s Czech cousin Enyaq (if launched). Right now, we have Tata Nexon EV that tops the charts while XUV400 Electric is set to debut on September 8th.  More

  • in

    Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUV Officially Teased – Nexon EV Rival

    Mahindra XUV400 electric will primarily rival Tata Nexon EV that is currently the top selling electric car in the countryMahindra XUV400 Electric SUVMahindra has chalked out ambitious plans for EV segment, with both domestic and international markets on its radar. While its born-electric range will arrive in 2025, enthusiasts can look forward to XUV400 that will debut on September 08, 2022. Unlike Mahindra’s born electric SUVs that are based on an entirely new INGLO platform, XUV400 is essentially an electric version of ICE-based XUV300. The approach is quite similar to Nexon EV that is based on ICE-based Nexon SUV.However, one major difference is that XUV400 will be 4.2 meters in length, as compared to XUV300 that measures 3,995 mm. Size related tax benefits don’t apply in case of electric cars, which is why XUV400 can be stretched to its max limit. Being longer, users can expect roomy interiors and possibly larger boot space.Mahindra XUV400 Electric TeasedAs a challenger to Nexon EV and Nexon EV Max variant, XUV400 is expected to get multiple segment-first features. Nexon EV currently dominates passenger EV segment with market share of more than 85 percent by volumes. XUV400 will be Mahindra’s first major EV product, which is why its success is all the more important for the company.Assuming it gets a good response, XUV400 will help shape consumer perceptions and have a positive impact on other upcoming electric SUVs from Mahindra. It will have the new bronze logo, which was showcased on the XUV700 electric version earlier this month. Take a look at the official teaser video of the new XUV400 Electric SUV below.[embedded content][embedded content]Some segment-first features that could be included for XUV400 include a large touchscreen infotainment system. It will be powered by Mahindra’s AdrenoX connectivity platform. For reference, Nexon EV Max has a 7-inch floating dash-top touchscreen infotainment system by Harman. Another key upgrade could be ADAS features, which is likely to be offered with top-spec variants of XUV400. Apart from Nexon EV, even other rivals like MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona EV do not have ADAS features.Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUVVisually, Mahindra XUV400 looks familiar to eXUV300 concept that was showcased at 2020 Auto Expo. Some key features include top-mounted L-shaped LED DRLs, sleek headlamps, closed-off front grille, body cladding, prominent rear bumper, rear spoiler and edgy tail lamps. XUV400 has standard door handles, as compared to flush door handles used in Mahindra born-electric SUVs.Mahindra XUV400 range, specs, priceIt is likely that XUV400 will have two battery pack options. Powertrain will comprise a single electric motor that sends power to front wheels. The electric motor will generate around 150 hp of max power. Range could be around 350-400 km, which is comparable to ARAI certified 437 km of Nexon EV Max. Standard Nexon EV has ARAI certified range of 312 km.Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUVMahindra XUV400 could be priced in the range of Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh. In comparison, Nexon EV Max is available in the range of Rs 18.34 lakh to Rs 19.84 lakh. MG ZS EV and Kona Electric are available at a starting price of Rs 21.99 lakh and Rs 23.84 lakh, respectively. More

  • in

    Mahindra Electric SUVs To Get Volkswagen Battery System, Electric Drivetrain

    Mahindra’s new INGLO platform means that it is IN-dian by heart and is GLO-bal in standardsMahindra INGLO Platform for upcoming Electric SUVs. Image – Thomas SchmallMahindra electric SUVs under BE range and XUV range will dominate Indian 4-wheeled EV space in the near future. While most manufacturers offer downgraded products in India when compared to global-spec models, Mahindra is aiming to offer global-spec cars right from the get go. That’s what GLO in INGLO signifies.But what is this INGLO platform? How is it global-spec worthy? Is it really designed by Mahindra? Did Mahindra only source the LFP battery cells or the entire powertrain? Is upcoming XUV400 electric based on INGLO? Well, hold your horses. We’ll break it down for ya.Mahindra Electric SUVTake a guess at what is common between Audi’s Q4 e-tron, Q4 Sportback e-tron, Q5 e-tron and Cupra’s Born, upcoming Urban Rebel and Tavascan, Skoda’s Enyaq iV, Enyaq Coupe iV and Volkswagen’s ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.6, ID. Buzz, and ID. Buzz Cargo? Not just them, Ford’s upcoming two electric crossovers for the old continent (Europe) and also Mahindra’s XUV.e8, XUV.e9, BE.05, BE.07 and lastly, BE.09.On the surface, you can immediately say that all of them are EVs. You’re half right. Under the skin, they all have the same MEB platform developed by Volkswagen. MEB platform or Modularer E-Antriebs-Baukasten is a modular and scalable EV platform developed by VW Group. MEB platform was made available to other manufacturers to procure under licensing and Mahindra is the second customer after Ford.Volkswagen plans to provide Mahindra with Electric Drivetrain as well as Battery SystemThere are two types of MEB platforms, one for passenger cars and the other for UVs that can take heavier cargo like pickup trucks or LCVs. Mahindra has revealed that they are using MEB components sourced from Volkswagen. But they aren’t specifying what exactly are the components used on new Mahindra electric SUV range.VW Group Board of Management member and CEO of VW Group Components, Thomas Schmall, revealed that VW Group is providing Mahindra with electric drives, battery systems and also VW’s unified cells. He also revealed that they have partnered up with Mahindra to supply MEB components to over a million (10 lakh) vehicles over the platform’s lifetime.What Do MEB Components Include?Schmall says that VW will explore further potential areas of cooperation with Mahindra including vehicle projects, local cell manufacturing and charging solutions such as VW’s Flexpoles too as a broader strategic alliance to accelerate the electrification of the Indian automotive market is the common goal for both the companies.Mahindra INGLO SUVs Powered By Volkswagen Battery System, Electric DrivetrainGoing by Schmall’s statement, Mahindra has procured electric drives, battery systems and unified cells. Electric drives mean that Mahindra seems to have obtained APP310 motor which is VW’s proprietary PMDC motor which MEB platform supports. The number 310 means that it will have 310 Nm of peak torque.It also gets a 1-speed gearbox handling all of the motor’s speed range. Along with this gearbox, APP310 motor only weighs 90 kg. Coming to battery systems, means a complete energy storage system. It includes all the battery modules along with the individual battery cells, BMS (Battery Management System), integrated thermal sensing and monitoring systems and also the algorithms and software. Mahindra may have procured some or all of these.Lastly, unified cells are again VW’s proprietary prismatic battery platform. It boasts three main chemistries within, they are LFP based for entry-level vehicles, Manganese based for high-volume vehicles and Nickel based for premium and high-end cars. Mahindra has revealed that they have procured LFP cells.Implications Of Mahindra-VW Venture In IndiaVW-Mahindra cooperation comes as a massive boost to the future of Indian electric four-wheeler market as it facilitates localization of one of the most important modular global EV architectures. Global technology benefited from attractive Indian cost structure will emerge as a highly competitive package for both domestic and international markets.Moreover, we hope to see a whole array of locally produced MEB-based Skoda and VW models at the right price bracket in the medium term once Mahindra is done setting up its supply chain system for critical components. Synergies between the two in vehicle projects could further make things interesting. Looking at Mahindra, other manufacturers are also likely to at least consider VW’s cost-effective, modular and scalable MEB EV platform.  More

  • in

    Mercedes AMG EQS 53 Electric Launch Price Rs 2.45 Cr – Range 586 Km

    Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ is the longest range EV in India – Promising a range of 529 – 586 km as per WLTP cycleMercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ India LaunchMercedes-Benz has announced plans to launch three new electric vehicles in India. Currently with an extensive lineup of luxury cars, the company has reported its Q1 2022 sales at over 4k units at 25.96 percent growth,The first of these three electric vehicles to launch in India is the new Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ electric luxury saloon priced at Rs 2.45 crores (ex-showroom). Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ comes in as the brands new flagship electric offering. It is being brought in as a CBU – Completely Built-up Unit. Mercedes-Benz will also launch a non-AMG version of the EQS called EQS 580 which will be locally assembled. Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ competes with the Audi e-tron RS and Porsche Taycan in its segment.Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ boasts of a sporty stance. It sports a couple styled silhouette with LED lighting and DRLs, an AMG specific front grille in a black colour scheme with chrome finished vertical slats, a large Mercedes-Benz logo in the center and the Mercedes star with AMG lettering. It also gets chrome accents across its exteriors and at the rear it sports rear brake lights with a curved 3D helix design. The EQS rides on 21 or 22 inch AMG light alloy wheels in Aero or Heritage design while there is a large rear spoiler, rear apron and an aerodynamic diffuser with 6 longitudinal fins.Exterior colour options include Nautic Blue Metallic, Graphite Grey Metallic, Obsidian Black Metallic, Designo Selenite Grey Magno, Designo Hyacinth Red Metallic and Designo Diamond White Bright. Dimensions stand 5,223mm in length, 1,926mm in width and 1,515mm in height. It gets a 3,210mm long wheelbase and boot space of 610 liters.Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ India LaunchThe interiors see state of the art comforts and equipment. It sports an innovative MBUX hyperscreen as standard. This is made up of three screens merged together by one continuous glass panel stretching across the length of the dashboard. Driver and front passenger get an individual 12.3 inch screen while there is also a 17.7 inch centrally positioned infotainment unit. This takes the total screen length to 47.7 inches.Mercedes-Benz EQS has a 56 inch system. It also sports a 24 GB RAM and 8 CPUs. The EQS cabin also sees features such as 64-colour ambient lighting, Burmester sound system with 15 speakers and 710 watt, massaging seats and Nappa leather (offered as an option). AMG steering wheel buttons, sports pedals and floor mats along with AMG lettering on door sills are also a part of its interior makeup.Power and PerformancePower and performance on the new Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ is seen via a 400V, 107.8 kWh lithium ion battery with an AMG electric motor on each axle. This dual-motor setup offers 762 hp power and 1,020 Nm torque. As per the WLTP cycle, it offers a range upto 585 kms and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds with a top speed rated at 250 km/h. An optimum temperature range of the battery is achieved via a cooling circuit and PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) booster heater integrated into it.Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ India LaunchIt also gets a 4Matic+ fully variable all-wheel drive system. It supports upto 200 kW DC rapid charging and 22 kW fast charging. The India spec model comes in with Dynamic Plus Package as standard which makes 761 hp Race Start mode.Suspension to this flagship electric vehicle is via four-link axle in front and multi-link axle at the rear. It also gets AMG’s Ride Control+ air suspension, working together with electronically controlled active dampers and rear-axle steering. Updates to the battery management system can be done over the air. It also comes in with an AMG Track Pace software that records over 80 vehicle specific data among which are speed and acceleration during racetrack driving. Driving dynamics can be altered via four AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes of Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual.2022 Mercedes EQS ElectricFirst in industry service interval is being offered on the new EQS 53 that includes 2 years/30,000 kms, battery warranty of 10 years (8+2 years) or 2,50,000 kms. The service pack starts at Rs 1,15,000 while the advanced assurance pack is at Rs 2,50,000.Mercedes Benz India has also stated that by the end of this year it will have the largest ultra fast charging network covering 80 percent of the country. For this the company has made an investment of Rs 15 crores with its franchise partners. The fast charging network will be exclusive to Mercedes-Benz customers and will be offered free of cost for the first year only. More

  • in

    BYD Atto 3 Electric SUV India Launch Soon – Kona, ZS EV Rival

    BYD Atto 3 electric SUV to be priced at around Rs 25 lakh; will rival the likes of MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona EVBYD Atto 3 Electric SUVCurrently the world’s largest manufacturer of electric vehicles by volumes, China-based BYD is looking to enter the mainstream EV market in India. BYD has been functional in India since 2007, but earlier its operations were limited to manufacturing of batteries, electronic parts and mobile phones.Since 2016, BYD has started supplying batteries and bus chassis to electric bus manufacturer Olectra. In 2021, BYD had launched e6 electric MPV at a starting price of Rs 29.6 lakh. e6 MPV has range of 520 km and it is sold exclusively to corporate and fleet customers. With e6 receiving good response, BYD is looking to target the passenger EV segment.BYD Atto 3 India launch plansBYD Atto 3 will initially be assembled at the company facility in Sriperumbudur, near Chennai. Over the next two years, BYD plans to sell 10,000 assembled vehicles in India. Based on response, the company can consider setting up a local manufacturing unit.To showcase its seriousness about the Indian market, BYD will be participating in upcoming 2023 Auto Expo. The Warren Buffet-backed company will be displaying a range of products including sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs. BYD’s state-of-the-art Blade battery technology will also be showcased.BYD Atto 3 Electric SUVIn terms of additional screening that Chinese companies usually have to face in India, BYD said that its current operations and infrastructure do not require any clearance. BYD has aggressive plans for India, with the goal to acquire 10-15% market share in passenger EV segment by 2030. However, the company is yet to fully define its strategy for reaching that goal. A lot will depend on the success of Atto 3 and other upcoming EVs that will be showcased at 2023 Auto Expo.Owing to increase in assembly operations, BYD will be hiring around 100 people by end of this year. With sales target of 10,000 EVs in 2 years, BYD will also be expanding its dealer network. Currently, it has 12 dealers across 12 cities. These numbers will be increased to 24 outlets across 18 cities in the next 6 months. Based on demand, more outlets can be opened.BYD Atto 3 featuresAs sold in international markets, BYD Atto 3 has a sporty profile with sleek headlamps, closed-off grille, funky alloy wheels, chrome-lined windows, sloping roofline and connected tail lamps. Other key features include panoramic sunroof, electric unlock tailgate, roof rails and electrically heated, retractable and adjustable ORVMs.[embedded content][embedded content]Interiors are ultra-luxurious with a plethora of futuristic design elements across the cockpit area. There’s liberal use of chrome accents, which ensure a premium, regal feel. Some key features include a large 12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 5-inch digital instrument panel, electric power assisted steering wheel, premium Dirac HD audio system with 8 speakers, USB C and USB A ports, synthetic leather seats, driver and front passenger heated seats and voice commands.Atto 3 offers a comprehensive range of safety features including ADAS features such as automatic emergency braking system, adaptive cruise control, front and rear collision warning, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert and rear cross traffic brake. Safety kit also includes front, side and curtain airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system, electronic stability program, traction control system and hill descent control.Equipped with a 49.92 or 60.48 kWh battery pack, BYD Atto 3 generates 204 PS of max power and 310 Nm of peak torque. Range is 480 km with the 60.48 kWh battery pack, as per NEDC standard. Atto 3 can reach 0-100 kmph in 7.3 seconds.Source More

  • in

    Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUV Launch Date 6th Sep – Nexon EV Rival

    Mahindra XUV400 Electric is around 200mm longer than XUV300 and hence the bump in its nameMahindra XUV400 Electric SUV – RenderMahindra is on the run to be one of India’s largest EV 4-wheeler manufacturing companies. After multiple teasers, Mahindra has finally unveiled 5 electric SUVs that are completely distinct and different from each other. Three of them will fall under BE (Born Electric) branding and the other two will fall under XUV branding.But apart from the five that Mahindra revealed, there is a sixth electric SUV that is closer to launch than other five. We are of course talking about the Mahindra XUV400 Electric which is not likely to be based on the newly developed ‘INGLO’ EV platform that was showcased yesterday. But going with Mahindra’s new naming strategy, XUV400 Electric may become XUV.e4.Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUV LaunchThe Chennai-based company has not confirmed the XUV.e4 name. But it fits into Mahindra’s current naming scheme. Also, the launch date is set for launch on 6th Sep. It will be slightly longer than XUV300 as it is an EV and doesn’t have to hit the 4-metre length holy grail.So instead, it will retain Ssangyong Tivoli’s original dimensions which is around 4.2m long. XUV300 was a chopped-up Ssangyong Tivoli. Hence proportions on XUV300 were compromised, especially the ridiculously low boot space. But that will be fixed with XUV400 as it is longer.2022 Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUV SpiedWe recently spotted a test mule on Indian roads while heavily camouflaged. But we could immediately recognise it as XUV300 Electric concept which Mahindra had showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. It had a similar headlight design and also boomerang-shaped LED DRLs. Production-spec XUV400 Electric will accommodate practical bulbs replacing the futuristic LED lights in the concept vehicle.Specs & PriceMahindra had stated before that XUV400 Electric will source high-energy-dense NMC cells from LG Chem. NMC cells are superior to the cylindrical LFP cells found on Nexon EV Prime and EV Max. But from when it announced the INGLO platform on which future BE and XUV electric SUVs will be based, they got LFP cells sourced from Volkswagen.If Mahindra sticks to NMC cells, XUV400 Electric might be more powerful and have a longer range than Tata’s EVs. In effect, we can expect around 150 bhp of power and over 400 km of range from a single charge which is in line with Nexon EV Max, its main rival. In terms of features, Mahindra is likely to blow Tata’s products out of the water.We say this because, in yesterday’s event held at Oxfordshire, Mahindra has shown a very futuristic approach to its upcoming electric SUVs. XUV.e8, which is based on XUV700 now gets three horizontal screens instead of two on the latter. Going by that logic, XUV400 Electric or XUV.e4 will have a lot more futuristic and tech-laden interiors than ICE-powered XUV300 on which it is likely to be based.As of now, Nexon EV Prime prices start at Rs. 14.99 lakh and get a 30.2 kWh battery with a claimed range of 312 km. Whereas, Nexon EV Max prices start at Rs. 18.34 lakh (both prices ex-sh) and 40.5 kWh with a claimed range of 437 km taking Tata to the top spot in 4W EV sales chart. Will Mahindra XUV400 Electric be the disruptor?  More

  • in

    Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV Revealed – Full Dashboard Touchscreen

    Mahindra XUV.e8 is the electric version of XUV700 with futuristic touches on the outside as well as insideMahindra XUV700 Electric SUV PrototypeMahindra has always wanted to be a big shot in electric SUVs. We have been seeing multiple teasers and finally, on India’s 75th Independence day, Mahindra revealed 5 electric SUVs at the event held in Oxfordshire, England. But Mahindra had only teased three Born Electric SUVs and showcased five. How is that possible?See, Mahindra has two EV product lineups now. One is BE (Born Electric) range of electric SUVs and the other is still under XUV name. In this light, three Born Electric SUVs check out as BE range is showcased with three products for now which are BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09. The other two fall into electric XUV range which are XUV.e8 and XUV.e9. Of those two, XUV.e8 is the most production ready as it is based on XUV700.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV WalkaroundMahindra has based its XUV.e8 on the new INGLO platform promising 60 kWh to 80 kWh battery packs. These battery packs are made of LFP cells that are sourced by Volkswagen. While the rest of battery systems like BMS, are likely to be designed in-house. Look at the walkaround video of XUV.e8 below, credits to Overdrive.But the top hat is almost identical to ICE-powered XUV700 that is currently sold in India. Even though XUV.e8 gets the same profile with slightly sharper wheel arches, front and rear are different. Also, the whole car seems to be wrapped in a matte black wrap with copper-coloured textures all around. It is unlikely to be carried over to production model.[embedded content][embedded content]The front of XUV700 is completely transformed into a futuristic MPV-ish SUV. It gets a massive LED DRL which not only extends across the width, but also almost across the height of the SUV at its extreme ends. Headlights are now very sleek and get copper elements too. Copper seems to be the defining theme here as its Twin Peaks logo also gets a similar finish engulfed by purple LED. Its closed-off grille seems to be inspired by Lexus’ spindle-like shapes, though.What stands out from XUV700’s profile on XUV.e8 is an all-new alloy wheel design. Its primary function is to reduce aerodynamic drag and help reduce its air drag coefficient. This, in turn, helps in maximising the range. XUV.e8 might get either a RWD layout with 228 bhp or an AWD layout with 335 bhp.Interiors & LaunchMahindra XUV700 interiors were already futuristic and tech-laden. But XUV.e8 takes it to a whole different level. While XUV700 has two horizontal screens, XUV.e8 gets three. One is for driver’s display and second one is for central infotainment system. Third screen seems to be for the front passenger, because, why not? If it was a single-piece 27” screen like on Ford Explorer launched in China, it would be even cooler. But these are three different screens covered by the same glass.Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV – Full dashboard touchscreenInterior finishes were covered by camouflage as it was just a prototype. We wish Mahindra gave soft-touch plastics with XUV.e8 as it would make for a much nicer cabin. Most of XUV700’s features like a panoramic sunroof, seating layout, dash layout, and door trims are likely to be retained. Launch is likely around 2024.M&M Chairman Anand Mahindra promised that production versions of all the concepts shown yesterday including BE and XUV.e products are going to be the same. He assured that what we saw, is what we will get. He also revealed that three of the five shown yesterday are already in an advanced stage of development and the other two will soon be under execution. More