More stories

  • in

    Mahindra BE05 Electric SUV Coupe New Spy Shots – Sporty Side

    New Mahindra BE05 Electric SUV CoupeMahindra will launch a new range of electric SUVs in India – Starting with the BE05 SUV coupe in Oct 2025Mahindra BE05 is in close-to-production form. New spy shots offer a sneak peek into the future of electric mobility from the Indian manufacturer. Set to be unleashed onto the market by October 2025, the Mahindra BE.05 is poised to make a significant impact in the world of electric SUVs.Sporty Design – A new direction for MahindraThe latest spy shots of the Mahindra BE05 reveal a design that strikes a balance between sportiness and functionality. Moving forward, the BE.05 exhibits a sculpted bonnet and a sharply raked front windshield, giving it a dynamic and aerodynamic appearance. Towards the rear, a roof-mounted spoiler with an integrated LED lightbar adorns the tailgate, not only enhancing its sporty appeal but also improving its aerodynamics.New Mahindra BE05 Electric SUV CoupeOne of the standout features is a massive panoramic glass roof that promises to provide an open and airy feel to the cabin. Although it’s not clear from the images whether this roof will be openable or fixed, it undoubtedly adds a touch of elegance to the vehicle.Peeking inside the BE05, we catch a glimpse of its modern and futuristic interior. Building on the concept’s design, the production version features a driver-centric layout with a wraparound effect. Twin screens, likely for infotainment and instrument cluster purposes, dominate the dashboard, highlighting the vehicle’s tech-savvy nature.Mahindra Electrified SUVs – Launch TimelineCutting-Edge Powertrain and Battery TechnologyBE.05 is built on Mahindra’s INGLO platform and will be available in both 2WD and 4WD variants. Powering this electric marvel are motors sourced from Volkswagen. The 2WD models boast a rear-mounted motor with a robust 210 kW (286 hp) and 535 Nm of torque, ensuring impressive performance. On the other hand, the 4WD models are equipped with an additional front axle motor, delivering 80 kW (109 hp) and 135 Nm. While the combined system output has yet to be officially disclosed, Mahindra has assured that these powertrains are in advanced stages of testing and development.In the energy department, the BE.05 relies on a 79 kWh battery unit featuring LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) cells. This choice of cells is a significant departure from the NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) chemistry used in Mahindra’s XUV400. LFP cells are known for their greater energy density, slower discharge rate, reduced risk of thermal propagation, and rapid charging capabilities. Notably, the BE.05 can charge from 0 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes, which is an impressive feat for an electric vehicle.A Rivalry with upcoming Tata Curvv EVWhen the Mahindra BE.05 is finally launched in October 2025, it will occupy a premium position above the XUV400 EV in the company’s lineup. In terms of competition, it’s gearing up to take on the Tata Curvv EV, set to hit the market in 2024. This rivalry promises to be a defining moment in the Indian electric SUV segment, with both manufacturers vying for the attention of eco-conscious and tech-savvy consumers.As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve, Mahindra’s BE.05 stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility and cutting-edge technology. With its sporty design, advanced powertrain, and fast-charging capabilities, this electric SUV coupe is poised to make waves in the automotive industry when it arrives on the scene in 2025, offering a compelling option for those looking to embrace the electric future of transportation. More

  • in

    Mahindra Bolero Electric Launch Confirmed – New Logo, Anthem By AR Rahman

    Mahindra Bolero digital render for illustration purposeBy electrifying existing models, Mahindra will be able to retain the brand equity associated with the respective SUVsLast year, Mahindra had unveiled its upcoming born-electric range of SUVs. It included XUV.e8, XUV.e9, BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09. In coming years, Mahindra electric portfolio will have a lot more options to choose from. At the ongoing global event in South Africa, Mahindra has confirmed that it will be electrifying all its existing ICE SUVs.Good thing is that electrification of existing ICE SUVs won’t be the usual retrofit project. All the electrified ICE SUVs will be based on the company’s new INGLO platform. Of course, some tweaks will be needed to accommodate the respective body styles. Excluding the signature features of these SUVs, everything else including the chassis will be new. Electrified ICE SUVs will also get new names in the form of a ‘dot e’ suffix.Mahindra Bolero Electric Launch Confirmed. Image – TwitterMahindra electrified ICE SUVs to get single or dual motor powertrainsFor upcoming Thar.e, Scorpio.e and Bolero.e, powertrain options could be single or dual-motor setup. The electric powertrains will be sourced from Volkswagen and Valeo. As revealed at the ongoing global conference in South Africa, there will be a total of three powertrain options.In the front motor setup sourced from VW, power and torque output will be 110 PS and 135 Nm. In rear motor setup from VW, power and torque will be 285 PS and 535 Nm. In rear motor setup provided by Valeo, the numbers will be 231 PS and 380 Nm. Users will have the option to choose powertrain options for all these electrified SUVs.Mahindra Electrified SUVs – Launch TimelinePrices will vary based on various factors, one of which will be the type and capacity of the battery pack. However, such details are yet to be revealed. Key aspects such as range and launch timelines of these electrified ICE SUVs are also not known. However, it is likely that the next electric launch from Mahindra will be XUV.e8. It is essentially the electric version of XUV700. It has been spotted on road tests in recent months.Mahindra Electric SUVs PowertrainMahindra electrified ICE SUVs to have a new lookWhile retaining the core silhouette and signature features, Mahindra’s electrified ICE SUVs will have a refreshed look and feel. This approach is clearly evident with the Thar electric SUV unveiled at the ongoing event. The focus will be on achieving a more futuristic look and feel. It will also work to create a distinctive brand identity in comparison to the ICE counterparts.Mahindra Electric SUVs – Body StylesMahindra’s electrified ICE SUVs will also be using a new logo. But for existing XUV400, the twin-peaks logo in copper finish will be carried forward. It is possible that Mahindra may introduce the new logo for XUV400 when it too is shifted to the INGLO platform. Meanwhile, Mahindra will continue to sell the ICE SUVs. These will be available, as per Mahindra’s electrification strategy and roadmap. Mahindra has plans to achieve 25% electric SUV sales by 2027.[embedded content]Mahindra Electric Automobiles, in collaboration with music maestro AR Rahman, introduces an innovative sonic identity for their upcoming range of born electric vehicles. Crafted with over 75 meticulously designed sounds, including drive sounds and experience modes, the collaboration aims to enhance the auditory experience of electric SUVs.Mahindra Electric SUVs – Triple screen displayPartnering with HARMAN and Dolby Laboratories, the integration of Dolby Atmos audio technology further elevates the sensory journey. The brand anthem, “Le Chalaang,” reflects Mahindra’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. This sonic venture not only adds a distinctive auditory dimension but also aligns the brand’s Indian roots with its global aspirations, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity in the pursuit of a greener future. More

  • in

    Mahindra Thar Electric SUV Debuts – Longer Wheelbase, Increased GC

    Mahindra Thar Electric SUV Debuts. Image – Auto TodayMahindra Thar electric will not be based on ladder frame platform – It will be based on Mahindra INGLO platformAfter much anticipation, Mahindra has unveiled Thar electric SUV concept today. At the same event, Mahindra has revealed the new Scopio N pikup concept. They have also announced plans to to electrify Bolero and Scorpio as well. In all, there will be a full range of Mahindra EVs – Thar.e Bolero.e, Scorpio.e, XUV.e, and lastly, BE (Born Electric Range).Except for BE products and Thar.e, rest of the range could be entirely derived from their ICE counterparts. This is to strike an effective price and expand its EV portfolio without channeling a lot of money into redesigning every single bit. Thar.e holds a special place as it is based on one of the most popular products in India right now.Mahindra Thar Electric SUV DebutsMahindra Thar.e – Makes way for success, in silenceAs of now, Thar is a ladder frame SUV with rugged off-roading credentials. Electrifying ladder-frame vehicles is very difficult. Instead of making Thar electric on the ladder frame platform, Mahindra has decided to make it on the INGLO P1 platform.Mahindra Thar.e will get both 3-door and 5-door layouts. Wheelbase will vary between 2,775 mm and 2,975 mm and the ground clearance will get a shot in the arm with up to a staggering 300 mm. This is because battery is at the floor and higher ground clearance is its greatest insurance policy. Front and rear overhangs will be kept minimal.Mahindra Thar Electric SUV DebutsMahindra Thar.e prototype at the event in Cape Town, South Africa looks like a military vehicle and reminds me of a TUV300. But in a good way. The overall boxy design screams function over form and is reminiscent of proper old-school SUV DNA. The front is squared-off and side is pretty flat too. Front fascia radiates a muscular aura with a lot of aggression.Mahindra Thar Electric SUV DebutsWindshield is still small and upright, seems like Hummer was the inspiration here. Exposed door hinges reveal a strong character. There are three LED elements in the grill, flanked by two Square LED DRL signatures. Massive wheels and aggressive pattern tyres grab attention. Spare wheel is on the rear tailgate.Thar.e concept showed, was in 5-door layout. There could be a 3-door one with production-spec version as well. This concept takes standard ICE Thar’s butchness to a whole new level. Rear tail lights mimic the LED DRL signature on the front. Roof is pretty much flat, and could allow overlanding projects that owners might venture into, given that this is a lifestyle vehicle.Mahindra Thar Electric SUV DebutsBoth 3-door and 5-door versions will share the same battery and dual motor arrangements. Launch could be much ahead in the future than we expected. We say this because Mahindra has a packed schedule and fitting all products in the timeline at once could be difficult. So, the phase-wise launch timeline includes XUV.e8 slated for December 2024, XUV.e9 for April 2025, BE.05 for October 2025 and BE.07 for April 2026. Mahindra didn’t mention launch timeline for Thar.e. So, launch could go beyond 2026 or even in 2027.Same powertrain as XUV.e8?The INGLO platform now houses Blade and Prismatic cells from BYD, instead of Volkswagen’s MEB platform. The new LFP cells from BYD seem to offer the right characteristics that Mahindra was looking for. Going with Thar’s off-road worthy name tag, Thar.e is highly likely to get 4WD setup with the help of two motors, driving each axles. The front motor will not offer the full-fat performance of rear motor.Image Source More

  • in

    Mahindra Thar Electric Official Teaser Confirms New Design

    Mahindra Thar.e name teasedMahindra is getting ready to unveil exciting new concepts later this month at an event in South AfricaWith over 50,000 bookings pending, Thar is one of the most popular SUVs in India right now. Popularity is off the roof and most of the newfound demand is due to the newer RWD model. One could only imagine how much more popular a new version of Thar might be.We’re not talking about 5-door Thar, which will debut in 2024. Instead, we’re talking about Thar’s electric version that will debut on August 15th in South Africa. Latest teaser reveals that Mahindra is calling it Thar.e and the company is highly likely to showcase it in concept form.Mahindra Thar Electric ?? teaser ? pic.twitter.com/hpvdseO4yJ— RushLane (@rushlane) August 5, 2023Mahindra Thar.e Concept Global DebutFrom the teasers we can see a new design language on board. This will help Mahindra market their Thar as a global SUV and not restricted to a few countries, as is the case with current Thar. In the teaser we can see a concept vehicle with a lot of design flamboyance. It is likely to get Mahindra’s new INGLO EV platform shared with BE and XUV.e series of future electric vehicles.As of now, Thar gets a rugged ladder frame chassis. Electrifying a ladder frame chassis is tedious and poses production challenges, but it is not impossible. Mahindra is reportedly working on a cost-efficient and feasible way of electrifying a ladder frame vehicle. Toyota is at it too, with electric Innova Crysta.Mahindra Thar.e name teasedMahindra Thar.e could feature either a monocoque or ladder frame. Teasers confirm the Thar.e name and nothing more than that. The company will reveal more details on August 15th. It will be India’s first fully electric lifestyle vehicle. Until MG’s Yep eSUV arrives, of course.2023 Mahindra Scorpio Pickup renderScorpio N PickupApart from Thar electric, Mahindra will also be unveiling Scorpio N pikup truck at the same event on 15th August 2023. This will be a global product and will feature a longer wheelbase than standard Scorpio N to accommodate a load bay. Scorpio N pikup could be launched in global markets before India. Engine options will be similar to Scorpio N while prices could be comparatively lower than its SUV counterpart. More

  • in

    Pininfarina’s Pura Vision Concept: Sculpting A Glass-Roofed Masterpiece

    Pininfarina Pura Vision concept debutsPininfarina Pura Vision e-LUV Concept: An Electric Symphony of Luxury and TechItalian car design firm and coachbuilder Pininfarina has unveiled Pura Vision concept in official pictures. This is a baseline on which Pininfarina’s new electric SUV will take shape. The Luxury SUV market is an active space with legacy manufacturers craving for a piece of this pie. Mahindra owned Pininfarina just joined this race.It will go up against Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Mercedes-Benz GLS, Lamborghini Urus, Ferrari Purosangue, Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga and legacy SUV maker Land Rover’s flagship Range Rover as well. Cab-rear proportions stand out from the current crop of luxury SUVs.From Canvas to Road: Pininfarina Pura Vision Paints a Luxurious TaleThe company has showcased this electric SUV concept in official images. Pininfarina Pura Vision concept will debut at Monterey Car Week in August, alongside recently revealed Battista Edizione Nino Farina Hyper GT and another production-spec vehicle. Pininfarina calls Pura Vision concept as e-LUV (electric Luxury Utility Vehicle).It has an unmistakable presence which makes it stand out in current crop of luxury SUVs. Even in its concept phase, the striking images look like a piece of art from every angle. This dynamic identity is enhanced by a narrow glass house and wide wheel track. Body panels around its chassis channel air efficiently.Pininfarina Pura Vision concept interiorsPininfarina’s 94 year old design heritage pays off with Pura Vision concept. The roof is predominantly glass and almost reaches the rear in a single-piece fashion. The front fascia has a wide appeal with distinctive nano-fibre LED strands less than 1mm each. Window line is super aggressive, and combines sharp lines with swooping curvaceous panels.Pininfarina’s Tri-Opening Lounge Doors: A Nod to the Past, a Leap to the FutureFlared wheel arches and wide haunches scream understated aggression. Windows seem to be small in height. But it creates a futuristic appeal about Pininfarina Pura Vision. The most flashiest part of this car has to be its doors.There are three parts for the door. Pininfarina calls them tri-opening Lounge Doors and drew inspiration from Lancia Florida Sedan, which Pininfarina’s founder Battista Farina penned down. Base doors open horizontally with a rear suicide door type. While top part of the door opens like a gullwing door.In all fairness, these doors are reminiscent of Europe-bound Hiphi Y electric SUV revealed at Shanghai Auto Show recently. It’s a 2+2 seating arrangement. Pininfarina has taken care of creating an exquisite and opulent interior for its e-LUV by achieving perfect harmony between symmetry and boldness.Tri-opening Lounge DoorsIn terms of dimensions, Pininfarina Pura Vision e-LUV measures 5,215 mm in length, 2,147 mm in width (including ORVMs) and stands 1,641 mm tall. The 23″ wheels look dapper and add a lot of appeal. The chassis is carbon fibre monocoque with interesting pillar designs, which should lend sporty handling. More

  • in

    Mahindra BE.05 Electric spied along with XUV700 – Rear design revealed

    Mahindra BE.05 rear designMahindra BE.05 eSUV will be the smallest and the least expensive SUVs among other Born Electric BE rangeIndian homegrown brand Mahindra is entering a new era of futuristic EVs. We’re not talking about the ICE spinoffs that XUV.e8 and XUV.e9 will be. Instead, we are talking about the Born Electric BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09. Mahindra designed these from the ground up, to be electric vehicles and will feature a wild design language.Mahindra showcased all five of its EVs and their expected design language on August 15th, 2022 at M.A.D.E HQ in UK. We had expressed how BE.05 will be the most important vehicle among the five showcased. Within a year, we can see Mahindra commencing testing for BE.05 on Indian roads. Now, for the first time, the rear profile has been caught on camera in Chennai, where it was seen testing along with XUV700.Mahindra BE.05 Rear Design SpottedWe have seen the front profile and its interiors before. Now, with rear design out, we can compile a basic silhouette to see how BE.05 might look like. For starters, we like what we see. At their debut, Mahindra had promised most of the design elements of the concept will make it to production phase.Looking at the production-spec body under testing, Mahindra is living up to its promise. Mahindra BE.05 looks just as wild as it did in its concept form. We can see how organic and animalistic BE.05’s design aesthetics really are. The rear gets massive LED tail light signatures that not only get connected-type elements, but they also extend further down as well.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUVIn effect, these LED tail lights are so dominating, they eat into the rear windshield quite a bit. This makes the rear windshield very small. Mahindra is offering a massive roof spoiler too, which is very stylistic in its appeal. But it further eats into the rear windshield area. Visibility at the back will not be BE.05’s forte.There is a vent-like element in the center of the rear bumper, which is highly likely to be for styling purposes only. BE.05 will not feature Mahindra’s Twin Peaks logo. Instead, there is an illuminated BE logo in rear tail lights. Rear haunches are immense and tyres look to be 235-section, which lends a lot of muscle to this SUV.What do we know so far?Mahindra is sticking to its plan and roadmap with INGLO platform that the company divulged at its debut event. This is a derivative of Volkswagen’s scalable and modular MEB platform, rebranded. Capacity will be between 60 and 80 kWh. INGLO platform is compatible with both single-motor and dual-motor layouts as well.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeMahindra BE.07 is a Creta-sized compact eSUV measuring 4370 mm in length, 1900 mm in width, 1635 mm in height, and boasts a wheelbase of 2775 mm. This will be the smallest and the most affordable electric SUV with Mahindra’s new INGLO platform. Vehicles in this segment top out at 50 kWh battery (MG ZS EV). It will be interesting to see how BE.05 fares in India and in global markets. XUV.e8 will be the first to launch, though. More

  • in

    Mahindra XUV700 Electric SUV spied testing in Chennai

    Spied XUV700 ElectricOn the inside, Mahindra XUV700 electric or XUV.e8 will feature a triple screen layout – One for instrumentation, one for infotainment and the last for front passengerThe Indian automotive market is opening up to the EV revolution more steadily than anticipated. At its forefront is Tata Motors. The company is expanding its EV portfolio vertically and will launch electrified versions of its flagship Harrier and Safari. Mahindra will counter Harrier EV and Safari EV with an electrified version of its XUV700.Mahindra has planned to launch five different electric SUVs based on the new INGLO platform. The company is testing it extensively and launch is likely to happen in 2024 or early 2025. Until now, all test mules didn’t show visual confirmations to suggest electric powertrains, until now. In the recent test mules, we can see HV cables running beneath the floor where the battery is. Spied XUV700 ElectricMahindra XUV700 Electric Test Mule – Harrier EV & Safari EV rivalRight after BE.05 test mules, we now get to see XUV.e8 (electric XUV700) test mules as well. This is a good indication that Mahindra is looking to launch them sooner than later. Competition in EV space is growing by the day. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Ram Prasath for sharing these new spy shots.The recent test mules show the presence of orange coloured cables at the back. Automotive powertrains have colour-coded cables. Blue coloured cables mean it carries around 36V to 42V, while Orange cables mean that they carry up to 1000V. These are also called HV cables (high voltage cables). Orange cables carry HV AC or DC current between charger, inverter, motor and battery.Spied XUV700 ElectricOn XUV.e8 test mules, these are present at the rear, which could be an indication of a rear-mounted single-motor or an AWD setup with dual motor layout. VW-sourced Mahindra’s INGLO platform supports both single-motor and dual-motor layouts.Apart from that, we can also see an independent rear suspension setup too. This will increase comfort for rear occupants. Rear independent suspension was on offer with Tata Indica and Indigo, but they are a rare find these days outside premium and luxury brands.What will it pack when launched?Mahindra XUV700 electric or XUV.e8 will pack Volkswagen-sourced MEB EV platform renamed INGLO. This is a modular and scalable platform that can be adjusted to suit a multitude of variations and applications. Mahindra has revealed battery sizes will be between 60 kWh and 80 kWh in size and will feature both single motor layout and dual motor layouts as well.It will pack all of XUV700’s strengths. We’re talking about ADAS tech, flush doors handles, 5-star crash-rated body shell, and an extensive features list including a panoramic sunroof, power adjustable driver’s seats with memory function, and a lot more. Mahindra’s XUV.e8 prototype in UK featured free-standing triple-screen layout on dashboard, which is highly likely to make it on production model.We don’t expect a lot of design changes to the main structure of XUV.e8’s body. Sheet metal body panels might be different and take on a wilder route. Mahindra XUV700 Electric prices could be around Rs. 30 lakh mark. Launch is expected to take place in late 2024 or early 2025. More

  • in

    Mahindra CEO shares BE.05 Electric SUV interiors first look – Looks slick

    Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeScheduled for launch in October 2025, Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV will rival the likes of Tata Curvv EV, Creta EV and Honda Elevate ElectricLast year in August, Mahindra had unveiled its upcoming born-electric range. There were two sub-brands, XUV (XUV.e8, XUV.e9) and BE (BE.05, BE.07 and BE.09). Among the two sub-brands, it’s the BE range SUVs that have a truly radical design. At the time of their unveiling, Mahindra had provided a clear roadmap about the launch of these new BEVs. With BE.05 test mule spotted on road tests, it indicates that Mahindra is keen on launching these electric SUVs as per the scheduled plan. Latest image gives us a sneak peak into the interiors of this futuristic Mahindra EV. The image was shared by Mahindra CEO, Rajesh Jejurikar. The images were clicked during a recent event, where Mahindra’s leadership team was driving this eSUV in Chennai city.Mahindra BE.05 – Captivating, futuristic designIn terms of its design, Mahindra BE.05 seems to have time-travelled into the 21st century from the future. With its radical design, BE.05 easily gets everyone’s attention on the streets. Most striking aspect is the front fascia, where the SUV gets massive C-shaped LED DRLs.Another key highlight is the layered design of the body panelling. As compared to smooth panels seen with other SUVs, BE.05 has aggressive cuts and creases all around. It gives the sense of a stealth aircraft with angular panels, designed to deflect radar waves.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeMahindra BE.05 is expected to have roomy interiors. The SUV measures 4,370 mm x 1,900 mm x 1,635 mm (L X W X H) and has a wheelbase of 2,775 mm. This seems adequate for comfortably seating five adults. BE.05 is expected to get a range of hi-tech features including ADAS.Mahindra BE.05 electric SUV coupeOther highlights could include a large horizontally-mounted touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument console, premium sound system, wireless charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated seats, leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. BE.05 will have embedded 5G network capability. Users will be able to access new features via OTA updates. The SUV will comply with the strictest safety standards, such as those defined by GNCAP.Mahindra BE.05 range, performanceMahindra born-electric SUVs will be based on the INGLO platform. Battery options will be available from 60 to 80 kWh. Range will be around 450 km. All Mahindra BEVs will support fast charging with a 175 kW fast-charger. With this, users will be able to load up to 80% in less than 30 minutes. This will go a long way in eliminating range anxiety. Users won’t have to worry about waiting for hours to charge their vehicle.Mahindra BEVs including BE.05 will be offered in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive formats. Power output will be 170-210 kW and 250-290 kW, respectively. BE.05 and its siblings will be able to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in around 5 to 6 seconds.While it’s BE.05 that has been spotted, the first Mahindra BEV to be launched will be XUV.e8. It will go on sale in December 2024. BE.05 will come around a year later in October 2025. Similarly, XUV.e9 will debut in April 2025 and BE.07 in October 2026. Launch timeline of BE.09 is yet to be announced. More