More stories

  • in

    Mahindra XUV3XO EV Spied – Launch Nears

    2025 Mahindra XUV3XO EV SpiedAfter the much-needed transition from XUV300 to XUV3XO, Mahindra has made significant advances in the sub 4m SUV segment. Now, Mahindra is poised to further enhance its appeal in the sub 4m SUV space with the launch of XUV3XO EV, which is the spiritual successor of XUV400 currently on sale in India. Let’s take a closer look.
    Mahindra XUV3XO EV Spied Testing
    You must be wondering why this article revolves around sub 4m SUV segment while XUV400 has been a larger 4.2m vehicle. That is because Mahindra is shrinking its entry-level electric SUV in size and is making it a direct rival to Tata’s Nexon EV. This will also position it below BE 6 in company’s electric SUV lineup.
    2025 Mahindra XUV3XO EV Spied
    The recent spy shots by automotive enthusiast Mayur Sinh Rana from Rajkot who spotted this test mule on Rajkot-Ahmedabad Highway. This test mule was fully camouflaged to conceal its identity. However, it looks almost identical to XUV3XO ICE version which was launched last year. Even the size of upcoming XUV3XO EV matches that of XUV3XO ICE.
    The only real advantage of offering the larger 4.2m length (apart from more pleasing proportions) with XUV400 was boot space. Mahindra has tackled this issue when transitioning XUV300 to XUV3XO taking the boot space from 257L to up to 364L by offering a skinny space-saver spare wheel and loading beyond the rear seat backrest height.
    2025 Mahindra XUV3XO EV Spied
    Now, the company can achieve better cost efficiency as all exterior and interior sheet metal panels and plastic trims are shared between ICE and EV models. Just like XUV400, XUV3XO EV’s charging port is on front left quarter panel. XUV3XO EV packs unique alloy wheel designs when compared to its ICE counterpart.
    Same design as XUV3XO ICE
    All exterior lighting elements and features will be shared between ICE and EV models and the same is expected with interiors. Mahindra might introduce a few Blue or Copper highlights to signify its electric powertrain. Other than that, XUV3XO EV will feature the most premium cabin in sub 4m space with soft-touch plastics and more.
    2025 Mahindra XUV3XO EV Spied
    Where features are concerned, we can expect the same 10.2-inch infotainment screen, 10.2-inch instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, rear AC vents, panoramic sunroof, camera-based Level-2 ADAS, 360-degree cameras, powered driver’s seat, leatherette upholstery, cruise control, auto-dimming IRVM and more.
    Powertrains-wise, XUV3XO EV is likely to retain its 34.5 kWh (375 km range) and 39.4 kWh (456 km range) battery pack options. The main highlight of XUV3XO will be its electric motor which offers around 150 PS of peak power and a staggering 310 Nm of peak torque for blistering acceleration. Now that XUV3XO EV is smaller, it could be lighter and the acceleration could be even better. Launch is likely around festive season. More

  • in

    Tata Curvv EV Dark Edition Launch Price Rs 22.24 L – Rs 25k Over Standard

    Tata Curvv EV DarkAfter launching Curvv Dark Edition, Tata Motors has now launched Curvv EV Dark Edition. Prices for this stealth sensation in the electric SUV segment have been revealed. The company has priced Curvv EV Stealth Edition from Rs 22.24 lakh (Ex-sh) and sits at the top of Curvv EV’s variant lineup. Let’s take a closer look.
    Tata Curvv EV Dark Edition Launch
    News around Tata Curvv doesn’t seem to stop. Curvv has been among the latest additions to the C-Segment SUV space (Compact SUV). After making Curvv the official car for 2025 Season of Indian Premiere League (IPL), Tata Motors appointed Bollywood star Vicky Kaushal as this Coupe SUV’s brand ambassador.
    Tata Curvv EV Dark
    After which, Tata launched Curvv Dark Edition starting from Rs 16.49 lakh (Ex-sh), which was a Rs 32,000 increment over the trim level it was based on. In contrast, Curvv EV Dark Edition has been priced from Rs 22.24 lakh (Ex-sh) and commands a price increment of Rs 25,000 over the trim it is based on.
    Speaking of, Curvv EV Dark Edition is positioned on the fully loaded top-spec Empowered+ A trim level that gets all the bells and whistles. Curvv EV is Tata Motors’ second electric vehicle to get the Dark Edition treatment after Nexon EV. It has to be noted that Nexon EV also received Red Dark Edition, which Curvv has yet to receive.
    Tata Curvv EV Dark
    Black Magic
    Where design is concerned, Curvv EV Dark Edition is a typical Dark Edition affair. It gets an all-black exterior along with #Dark badges on front fenders and it gets Dark Chrome elements on exteriors replacing regular shiny chrome. Wheels are blackened and there are no silver trims on offer on this model. Notably, EV badges continue to be Blue, like on non-Dark versions.
    On the inside, Dark theme lends a sporty and stealthy look. We get Dark dashboard, door trim, centre console and other areas. Chrome highlights have been replaced with Dark Chrome, which looks nice. Leatherette seats and upholstery get Dark treatment too and we can see Dark badges on front seats. Unlike a few Black versions from rivals, Tata Curvv EV Dark Edition gets a Dark roof liner too.
    Tata Curvv EV Dark
    There is only one feature addition, similar to Curvv Dark Edition. Which are rear window shades that buyers will surely appreciate. Features continue to be the same including an electrically operated tailgate, Level-2 ADAS, ambient lighting, powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, auto climate control, 12.3-inch infotainment screen, 10.2-inch instrument screen, panoramic sunroof and more.
    Because Tata Motors Curvv EV Dark is positioned on Empowered+ A trim, it only comes equipped with the larger 55 kWh battery pack. Range promised is 502 km on a single charge (MIDC). The single electric motor makes 167 bhp and 215 Nm, promising a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 8.6 seconds. More

  • in

    Electric Car Catches Fire While At Dealer For Service

    Tata Nexon EV Catches FireIn an unfortunate and alarming incident, a Tata Nexon EV reportedly caught fire while it was parked at a service center following an accident. The car, which had been dropped off for repairs, was completely destroyed in the fire.
    What happened
    According to the owner, “I met with a small accident at night one day. I was driving back home and it was raining heavily, Some construction work was going on and there were no hazard warnings. There was a big pit filled with water right on the curb of the road. My vehicle fell into it. Being an EV it was not starting as expected and we dropped it off at the service centre the next day.”
    The service center attributed the fire to battery damage. However, complications soon arose. Although the service team initially verbally assured the owner of providing a replacement vehicle — reportedly a Tata Harrier — at a minimal cost, no formal action was taken. Despite the assurances, it has now been over eight months with no resolution.
    Adding to the owner’s woes, the vehicle was financed and he continues to pay EMIs for a burnt vehicle. To make matters worse, United India Insurance, the insurer, has reportedly declined to clear the IDV (Insured Declared Value) claim, allegedly offering compensation only for the battery pack instead of the full vehicle value. The owner of the car has shared details in the video below by Baiju N Nair.
    [embedded content]
    “First two months they were very cooperative and supportive ( verbally offered me any car from the brand for just a very minimal cost) but now they are not keeping their word and not helping me claim my insurance as well. Also they are not giving evidence or any report of the incident,” added the owner.
    Waiting for resolution
    The frustrated owner also shared his experience on Reddit, underlining the lack of cooperation from the dealer and insurer. Community members advised him to escalate the issue by filing a police FIR, reaching out to consumer forums, and using social media to highlight the incident.
    This case raises concerns over post-accident handling of EVs, insurance claim processes, and customer service accountability when vehicles are damaged under dealer custody. It also brings into focus the potential risks associated with electric vehicles exposed to floodwater and subsequent maintenance processes. More

  • in

    Vinfast VF 7 Spied On Truck – Heading For ARAI Certification?

    Vinfast VF 7 Spied On TruckThe Indian electric car market has been booming. More brands are taking a shot at this lucrative segment and Vinfast is one of them. Vietnamese electric car maker Vinfast is keen on launching VF6 and VF7 in India by 2nd half of 2025. In that regard, we can see VF 7 on a flatbed truck in Pune city, which seems to be heading for ARAI certification.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    At the Auto Expo 2025, Vinfast showcased a multitude of vehicles. We saw the VF 3, VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, VF 9, VF e34 and VF Wild pickup truck concept in 4W section and Evo 200, Klara, Feliz, Vento and Theon scooters along with DrgnFly electric motorcycle. Of these, VF e34 has been spied testing with camouflage back in June 2024.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    For 2025, primary interests of these showcases are VF 6 and VF 7 electric vehicles as they are confirmed to launch in 2nd half of 2025. In latest spy shots, we can see two VF 7 electric crossover SUVs on flatbed pickup trucks near PCMC area of Pune City in Maharashtra. Both vehicles are not camouflaged and can be seen without intrusions.
    One has a dark shade, which looks like the Green colour option Vinfast has in global markets. The other one is White. Both vehicles looked like they packed Black wheels which looks quite nice. Both vehicles get flush door handles along with charging port on front quarter panel. These are highly likely to be transported to ARAI for homologation purposes.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    Heading for ARAI certification?
    This indicates that the launch might be slated to originally planned timeline around 2nd half of 2025, which is nearing swiftly. The two vehicles spotted could be two different variants of VF 7. Speaking of, Vinfast VF 7 is offered (globally) in 2 variants. These variants are called Eco (base) and Plus (top).
    Both variants get the same 75.3 kWh battery, while there is difference in performance and range. Eco variant has more range at 280 miles (450 km), while Plus only offers 268 miles (431 km) (both WLTP cycle). Where performance is concerned, Plus packs 348 bhp and 499 Nm, whereas Eco variant packs 201 bhp and 309 Nm.
    Vinfast VF 7 Spied
    Vinfast VF 7 comes with the company’s distinct design language and promises to offer a premium experience for discerning buyers. Vegan leather seats, panoramic glass roof, LED lighting and other features are notable. It measures 4,545 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width and 1,635.75 mm in height and has a wheelbase measuring 2,840 mm in length. More

  • in

    MG Windsor Records 20,000 Sales Milestone in 6 Months – Fastest for an EV in India

    MG Windsor
    JSW MG Motor India today celebrated a major milestone with its all-electric MG Windsor. Within just six months of launch, Windsor has crossed 20,000 units sold, making it the fastest EV model in India to achieve this landmark.
    Strong Demand Across Metros and Emerging Markets
    The Windsor has been witnessing strong sales momentum not just in major metro cities but also in emerging markets, highlighting the growing appeal of electric vehicles across India. Rakesh Sen, Director Sales & Marketing, JSW MG Motor India, expressed delight at the achievement. “Since its launch, the MG Windsor has delighted car buyers with its exceptional value proposition. Customers have praised its futuristic design, intuitive tech features, spacious cabin, all combined with a sustainable and pocket friendly driving experience.
    In addition, with the MG Windsor, we have successfully addressed category barriers and dispelled several myths around EVs in India through our innovative approach. This has enabled newer customers to adapt to the EV lifestyle. These factors have propelled MG Windsor to become the fastest EV model to achieve 20,000 sales milestone in record time.”
    Setting New Benchmarks in India’s EV Revolution
    Launched as India’s first Intelligent CUV, the MG Windsor has blended the comfort of a sedan with the versatility of an SUV. Offered with an introductory Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model at INR 9.99 lakh + INR 3.9/km, the Windsor has redefined value in the EV segment.
    Powering the MG Windsor is a 38 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 100 kW (136 PS) of power and 200 Nm of torque. It offers an impressive 332 km ARAI-certified range on a single charge. Designed with the futuristic AeroGlide design language, Windsor brings business-class comfort inside with its 135-degree reclinable Aero Lounge seats. A massive 15.6-inch touchscreen elevates the driving experience with seamless connectivity and intuitive controls. The 20,000 sales milestone further cements MG Windsor’s position as a trendsetter and key force in accelerating EV adoption in India. More

  • in

    BYD’s Make In India Plans Dashed – Government Says ‘No’

    BYD Sealion 7Indian government has raised concerns about China’s non-market economy and potential links of Chinese companies to the PLA
    Last month in March, it was reported that BYD will start local manufacturing in India in Hyderabad. The plan was to set up a new manufacturing facility that will have annual production capacity of 6 lakh units by 2032. However, a recent statement by Piyush Goel, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, reveals that BYD’s expansion plan in India is essentially scrapped for now.
    BYD India Manufacturing Plant
    Border issues and China’s ambitions in the Indian Ocean and India’s neighbouring countries have prompted government officials to take a cautious approach. While both countries are working to strengthen relations, it may take a long time to settle all the issues and build confidence. These sentiments were echoed by Goyal during his recent interview with Bloomberg Television.
    Replying to a query about BYD, Piyush Goyal said that India has to look into its strategic interests. It implies that there will be strict scrutiny in terms of who could be allowed to invest. Goyal clearly said “no” in terms of BYD’s plans to expand its presence in India.
    This follows the earlier decision in July 2023 when BYD’s $1 billion (Rs 8,200 crore) investment proposal was rejected by the Indian government. The investment plan comprised building a new production plant in collaboration with Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering & Infrastructures.
    BYD eMAX 7
    Road ahead for BYD in India
    Till things improve, BYD is likely to continue using the CBU route to sell its all-electric cars in India. Starting with the Atto 3, BYD has introduced new models at regular intervals. BYD’s India portfolio includes the Seal sedan, Sealion 7 SUV and BYD eMAX 7 MPV. Even with the CBU route, BYD has posted an impressive annual growth of 90.32%. Sales have zoomed to 3,401 units in FY25, as compared to 1,787 units in FY24.
    In March, the carmaker registered a YoY growth of 175%. Sales have increased from 144 units in March 2024 to 396 units in March 2025. This has been made possible with the introduction of newer models and expansion of the dealer network. Going forward, BYD will be aiming to further add new dealerships and target Tier-II cities as well.
    Hurdles for Chinese carmakers
    Due to geopolitical issues between the two countries, Chinese carmakers have faced resistance in terms of investment and local expansion. Earlier, Great Wall Motor’s (GMW) plan to enter India was halted due to regulatory policies that called for strict scrutiny of Chinese investments.
    BYD Seal EV
    GMW had planned an investment of $1 billion and was looking to acquire General Motors’ Talegaon plant in Maharashtra. However, due to border conflicts and policy changes, GMW exited from India in 2022. As for the General Motors’ plant, it was acquired by Hyundai. China being a non-market economy, policy makers in India have raised concerns about the Chinese government’s influence over China-based businesses.
    Lack of transparency in business ownership in China is another concern. Factors like government-sponsored subsidies and loan write-offs for China-based businesses can create unfair competition in overseas markets such as India. These apprehensions have prompted policy makers in India to limit Chinese investment.
    Source More

  • in

    BYD Sealion 7 Scores 5 Star Safety Rating – Euro NCAP Crash Tests

    BYD Sealion 7 Scores 5 Star SafetyIn an important development for electric vehicle safety standards, the new BYD Sealion 7 has achieved impressive results in Euro NCAP crash tests. The all-electric SUV, tested in its ‘Comfort’ variant (LHD), received an overall strong safety rating, setting a new benchmark among large electric SUVs. BYD Sealion 7 was launched in India in Feb 2025, for a starting price of Rs 48.9 lakh, ex-sh.
    Outstanding Safety Performance
    The BYD Sealion 7 scored:
    – 87% for Adult Occupant Protection– 93% for Child Occupant Protection– 76% for Vulnerable Road Users– 79% for Safety Assist Systems
    [embedded content]
    These scores place the Sealion 7 among the top contenders in its class for comprehensive occupant and pedestrian safety.
    Adult Occupant Protection: Strong and Stable
    During frontal offset crash tests, the Sealion 7’s passenger compartment remained stable. It showed excellent protection for critical body areas such as knees and femurs, for both driver and front passenger. In the full-width rigid barrier test, protection for rear seat passengers’ chests was rated as ‘weak’, but otherwise the car demonstrated good safety performance across all other critical areas.
    BYD Sealion 7 Scores 5 Star Safety
    In side barrier and pole impact tests, the SUV scored maximum points, offering good protection to all critical body areas. Whiplash protection for front and rear seats was also rated as good.
    Child Safety: Top Marks
    The Sealion 7 impressed in child occupant safety, scoring 93%. In both frontal and side crash tests, the SUV provided good protection for 6- and 10-year-old child dummies. The car is equipped with ISOFIX mounts and a ‘child presence detection’ system that alerts if a child is left unattended.
    Vulnerable Road Users: Room for Improvement
    In terms of pedestrian and cyclist safety, the BYD Sealion 7 scored 76%. While the car’s autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system performed well in detecting pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, some areas like head protection near the windshield pillars and cyclist dooring prevention were rated as marginal.
    Safety Assistance Systems: Well Equipped
    The Sealion 7 features a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including:
    – Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with vehicle, pedestrian, and cyclist detection– Lane keep assist and emergency lane keeping– Speed limit recognition and intelligent speed assistance– Direct driver monitoring system for fatigue and distraction detection
    All seating positions are equipped with seatbelt reminders, and the Sealion 7 includes an advanced eCall system and multi-collision braking system as standard.
    The BYD Sealion 7’s crash test results highlight the brand’s strong commitment to safety in the rapidly growing electric SUV segment. With high scores across adult and child occupant protection, and well-rounded safety assistance features, the Sealion 7 makes a compelling case for customers seeking a safe, feature-rich electric SUV in 2025. More

  • in

    Mahindra Delivers 3,000 Electric Origin SUVs – XEV 9e and BE 6 Waiting Period Up To 6 Months

    Mahindra Electric SUVs – DeliveryMahindra has achieved a significant milestone in its electric journey by delivering over 3,000 units of its all-electric Origin SUVs—XEV 9e and BE 6 — since deliveries commenced on March 20, 2025. The announcement marks a strong start for Mahindra’s next-generation EV lineup, reinforcing growing customer trust and enthusiasm for electric mobility.
    Record EV Deliveries In Record Time
    Both the XEV 9e and BE 6 have received an overwhelming response in the market, with the majority of customers opting for the top-spec Pack Three variant. Current booking data reveals a 59% preference for the XEV 9e and 41% for the BE 6. Given the high demand, waiting periods now extend up to six months in select regions. To address this, Mahindra is scaling up deliveries across the country to reduce wait times and ensure a smooth ownership experience.
    Mahindra Delivers 3000 Electric Origin SUVs
    In a customer-centric move, Mahindra has introduced a new ‘Default’ drive mode specially designed for first-time EV adopters. This mode replicates the driving characteristics of internal combustion vehicles, making the transition to electric smoother, more natural, and immediately comfortable for new owners.
    Additionally, each Origin SUV delivery is accompanied by curated video guides that walk customers through EV best practices—ranging from efficient charging techniques to optimizing driving range and understanding the vehicle’s advanced connected features. These resources aim to empower customers to get the most out of their electric SUVs right from day one.
    Mahindra India Design Studio
    Mahindra recently inaugurated its all-new Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai, marking a bold leap forward in its design capabilities. This state-of-the-art facility doubles the size of the previous studio and is equipped with cutting-edge design technologies, blending digital tools with traditional craftsmanship. Serving as a key creative hub for both domestic and global markets, MIDS will closely collaborate with Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in the UK.
    With a growing product portfolio across Auto, Farm, and Last Mile Mobility, the new design studio is set to shape Mahindra’s next-generation vehicles—including the new electric Origin SUVs, XEV 9e and BE 6, which stand out with their futuristic, globally competitive design language that redefines the perception of Indian cars. More