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      India’s Electric Vehicle Policy in the Spotlight – Import Duty At 15% For CKD

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      Tesla India launch expected this yearPowering Production: India’s EV Policy and Manufacturing RequirementsThe Union Government’s E-Vehicle Policy in India could be a pivotal step towards transforming the automotive industry. This regulatory framework outlines stringent yet strategic measures. This is aimed at fostering the growth of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing (in the years to come) within the country.One of the policy’s key features is the stipulation of a minimum investment requirement of Rs 4,150 Cr, while also eliminating any maximum investment limit. This provision encourages substantial capital infusion into the EV sector. Which of course is essential for establishing robust manufacturing facilities and infrastructure.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy MandatesThe policy mandates that manufacturing facilities must be operational within three years. Commercial production should be commencing within the same timeframe. Dedicated timelines highlight efforts at expediting the adoption and proliferation of EVs. Domestic Value Addition (DVA) emerges as another crucial aspect of the policy putting focus on the need for indigenous production. DVA targets are set at 25 percent by the 3rd year, and 50 percent by the 5th year.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy – Emission MissionThe policy imposes 15 percent custom duty on vehicles with a CIF value exceeding USD 35,000 (About Rs 30 lakhs pre duty + tax) for a duration of five years. Additionally, it outlines provisions for limited imports, capping the maximum number of permissible imports at 40,000 EVs. Annual import numbers should not be exceeding 8,000 units.To ensure commitment and compliance, investors are required to furnish bank guarantees, serving as a financial security mechanism. Failure to meet DVA and investment criteria may lead to the invocation of these bank guarantees. Thereby reinforcing accountability and adherence to the policy’s mandates.The latest announcement sets forth a comprehensive roadmap for the sustainable development of the Indian automotive industry. By striking a balance between regulatory measures and incentivising investments, it aims to propel India towards a cleaner, greener, and more technologically advanced future. To make progress, the policy needs to lay strong emphasis on fostering innovation and technological advancement within the EV sector. By encouraging research and development initiatives, one can hope for cost efficient EVs that fit into people’s purchase plans.Domestic Dynamo: Policy Looks To Energise IndustryAs it stands, the policy serves as a catalyst for job creation and skill development in the automotive sector. Establishment of manufacturing facilities and the subsequent increase in production volumes will generate employment opportunities. This would be across various skill levels, from assembly line workers to engineers specialising in electric vehicle technology.Developing the E-Vehicle Policy aligns with India’s broader economic and environmental objectives. As a signatory to international agreements, India is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and transitioning towards more sustainable forms of transportation. The promotion of electric vehicles through this policy is aimed at achieving these targets. This is based on global dialogues that view EVs as inherently cleaner while producing fewer emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. More

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      Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered – For Upcoming Electric SUVs

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      Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered. Image – Shantanu GodaseNames like XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO are easy to remember and establish a clear differentiation between respective ICE and EV modelsIn a couple of years from now, Mahindra will have expanded its EV portfolio to include multiple new products. The names for these new EVs are also being worked out. It appears that Mahindra is keen on picking some short, trendy names, in line with the dynamic profile of its upcoming EVs.Mahindra Trademarks XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XOInstead of choosing entirely new names for its upcoming EVs, Mahindra seems to be using a derivative of its existing naming convention. The newly trademarked names XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO are apparently the EV versions of XUV700, XUV500, XUV300 and an all new small SUV EV. It is likely that these new names will be used for production versions of the XUV EV concepts which were shown earlier.Mahindra XUV 1XO Name RegisteredThe addition of X in the new names links it to the electric underpinnings and the letter ending with O meets Mahindra’s tradition of vehicle naming (Bolero, Scorpio, Marazzo, etc). While they also relate to their ICE versions, the names are short, crisp and easy to remember. A high recall value is expected, similar to the names of the ICE models.Mahindra XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO – Expected featuresExcluding the closed-off grille, several of the styling bits will be common across the ICE and EV models of XUV700 and XUV300. The equipment list will also have a similar set of features. The EV versions will probably be able to support a higher number of tech features.Mahindra XUV 3XO Name RegisteredFor its born-electric range, Mahindra is working on multiple segment-first features. For example, a test mule of XUV.e9 was recently spotted with a triple-screen dashboard. While being functionally relevant, it significantly enhances cabin aesthetics. The triple-screen unit covers almost the entire width of the dash. It helps achieve a symmetrical design format, which is not possible with the popular dual-screen setup seen with many SUVs.Mahindra XUV 5XO Name RegisteredIt is possible that the XUV 7XO and 5XO could get this new triple-screen dash. In comparison, XUV 3XO and X1O may continue with a solo touchscreen infotainment system. Bigger SUVs could get additional connectivity and safety features. The ADAS kit could be expanded in the case of XUV 7XO and 5XO. XUV 3XO and 1XO could also get some of the critical ADAS features such as blind spot detection, traffic sign recognition and driver drowsiness detection.Mahindra XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO – Expected range, battery specsUpcoming Mahindra EVs will be based on the new INGLO architecture. Battery packs will be in the range of 60 kWh to 80 kWh for the bigger SUVs. While XUV 7XO and 5XO could get both single-motor and dual-motor AWD options, the XUV 3XO and 1XO are likely to be offered with only a single electric motor. Detailed specs are yet to be revealed, although the new INGLO platform promises significant improvements across performance, drive comfort and versatility.Mahindra XUV 5XO Name RegisteredXUV 7XO, 5XO and XUV 3XO will have a range upwards of 400-450 km while XUV1XO could have a range of about 200-250 kms. With rapid progress in charging infrastructure, an extraordinary high range may not be required. Also, the focus is shifting on achieving a faster recharge. This allows users to load up quickly within minutes and resume their journey. However, experiments with newer battery technologies continue that can deliver a much higher range.Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered More

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      Ather CEO Shares What To Expect From Community Day – Rizta, Updates And More

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      New Ather 450X. Image – Anubhav ChauhanThe main highlight for Ather Community Day on 6th April is the reveal of upcoming Ather Rizta family electric scooterBengaluru-based Indian electric mobility startup, Ather Energy, is among the leading electric scooter manufacturers of this country. Apart from the new Ather Rizta family scooter, the company is excited to introduce and announce a bunch of new stuff on Ather Community Day on April 6th 2024. Here’s what to expect.Ather Community Day 2024 – 6th AprilCurrently selling premium, thrill-driven and cutting-edge electric scooters, Ather is stepping into the realm of conventional, with the launch of Rizta family scooter. This will be Ather’s most affordable scooter on sale in India yet, catering to a diverse audience. Also, a family scooter is larger and a lot more accommodating and practical than 450S and 450X.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter SpiedAther demonstrated Rizta’s practicality time and time again by showing its large seat and comparing it with best-selling family scooter in India, Honda Activa. The company has even put up Sabse Bada Seat Billboard in select cities as part of its marketing. Ather will unveil Rizta scooter at its Community Day event on April 6th.Apart from Rizta, Ather is set to unveil a lot more. Taking to social media platforms, Ather Energy CEO Tarun Mehta and Co-Founder Swapnil Jain revealed a brief glimpse of what to expect from Ather Community Day scheduled on 6th of April 2024. Despite the main highlight being Rizta scooter, there are more to expect.[embedded content]CEO and Co-Founder Reveal What To Expect From Ather Community DayFor starters, Ather’s ACDC event (Ather Community Day) will take place on 6th of April, 2024 in Bengaluru city, Karnataka. Ather CEO, Tarun Mehta, promised a substantially larger Ather Community Day event for 2024 when compared to last year’s. This year, there are a lot of reveals slated to be revealed on the stage. He further revealed more key information about the upcoming Rizta family scooter that will be showcased on the stage. The bigger seat will also bring bigger under-seat storage as well. USB charging will be seen on this Rizta scooter too.Co-founder Swapnil Jain joined Mehta and mentioned Ather will reveal a new accessory on 6th April. A smart accessory, at that. This “secret Ather accessory” is coined for the first time for any Ather vehicle and the company is hush-hush about finer details of this new smart accessory. One can win this upcoming accessory for free too, apparently.Spilling more about Ather’s newest 450 Apex electric scooter, Tarun Mehta revealed that the company’s flagship scooter has been reaching dealerships. This is where one can see and try 450 Apex in person. Or even win one. “Seriously, no joke” said Ather CEO. Company is promising the roll-out of AtherStack 6, which is touted as their biggest OTA update yet.Ather promises cool new features like messaging support on right from scooter’s dashboard along with a new mobile application. Company also announced an Oscar for EV and will honour the winner of Ather Unlocked 2nd Edition. More details will be revealed in a month’s time from now, at the ACDC event. More

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      BYD Seal EV Launched At Rs. 41 Lakh – Costs Less Than Toyota Camry Hybrid

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      BYD Seal EV Launched In IndiaSome of the USPs of BYD Seal all-electric sedan include its gorgeous profile and a comprehensive range of advanced featuresAs the EV segment in India gains momentum, BYD has added more options for its customers. Towards that end, the BYD Seal electric sedan has been launched in India. BYD’s current portfolio includes the Atto 3 SUV and e6 MPV, along with Seal. Bookings for the same had been open for some time at a nominal price of Rs. 1.25 lakh.BYD Seal specs, range, performanceThe BYD Seal electric sedan is available across multiple international markets including Europe. In India, there are three variants – Dynamic, Premium and Performance. Prices for BYD Seal starts from Rs. 41 Lakh for Dynamic, Rs. 45.55 lakh for mid-spec Premium and Rs. 53 lakh (all prices ex-sh) for top-spec Performance variant.While the first two variants are RWD, Performance gets dual motors with AWD layout. Base Dynamic gets a 61.4 kWh battery pack with 510 km range and the other two get a larger 82.5 kWh unit. Because Premium is RWD only, it gets the best-case-scenario range at 650 km, while Performance is claimed to go 580 km on a single charge, as per CLTC standards.Top-spec Performance AWD variant of BYD Seal generates a combined output of 530 PS and 670 Nm. Top speed is limited to 180 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h can be achieved in just 3.8 seconds. BYD Seal AWD variant supports DC fast charging of up to 150 kW. BYD is offering a 7kW home charger with installation, 3kW portable charger, 6 year RSA among other benefits.Charging from 10% to 80% takes 37 minutes, whereas 30% to 80% can be achieved in 26 minutes. BYD Seal has Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability that can be used to charge various tools and equipment. Seal EV is a Toyota Camry-size vehicle and undercuts Camry too, which is only a hybrid-ICE vehicle with FWD as standard.BYD Seal dimensions, featuresUsers can expect a dynamic road presence with BYD Seal measuring 4,800 mm in length. The sedan is 1,875mm wide, 1,460mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,920 mm. There’s ample storage with a 400-litre boot and a front boot with 53-litre space. The sedan has kerb weight of close to 2.2 tons.BYD Seal has a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.219, one of the lowest in the world. For reference, the Tesla Model S has a drag coefficient of 0.208. In addition to increasing range, the low drag coefficient also helps achieve a gorgeous profile for the sedan.BYD Seal EV ProfileBYD Seal promises a luxurious experience with leather-wrapped interiors and heated, ventilated seats. Other highlights include a panoramic sunroof, a 15.6-inch electrically rotatable touchscreen, a 10.25-inch TFT full LCD instrument panel, head-up display, voice commands and wireless smartphone charging.Safety kit includes a comprehensive range of ADAS features. The sedan also comes with the assurance of 5-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. 8-year or 1,60,000 km warranty on battery, 8 year or 1,50,000 km warranty on motor and controller along with 6 year or 1,50,000 km warranty on DC-DC assembly, OBC and high-voltage electric control offer peace of mind for buyers. More

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      BYD Seal EV Bookings Open In India – Free EURO 2024 Match Ticket Offer

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      BYD Seal Electric IndiaBYD India has opened bookings for their upcoming new Seal EV – Free Euro 2024 Match Ticket and return flight for few lucky buyersIt may be recalled that BYD Seal, an all-electric sedan, was showcased at the 2023 Auto Expo last year. It is now time for this new electric vehicle to mark its entry into India and launch date is set for 5th March 2024. It will be the company’s third product to launch in India after the BYD Atto 3 and BYD e6. Ahead of launch, BYD India has now opened official bookings and also announced an exciting offer.Book BYD Seal and get a chance to watch EURO 2024 MatchOne month ago, BYD officially became the Official Partner and Official E-Mobility Partner for the UEFA European Football Championship 2024 (UEFA EURO 2024). Thanks to this, those who book the BYD SEAL before April 30th, 2024, will stand a chance to receive a complimentary UEFA match ticket and a round-trip flight ticket from India to the designated match city.BYD Seal sedanThe new Seal sedan will be brought in as a CBU and assembled at the company plant in Chennai. It will borrow some design elements from the Ocean X concept with “ocean aesthetics” design language and ocean-themed nomenclature. This 4 door, 5 seater sedan gets LED headlamps, bumper mounted boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights and full width connected LED tail lamps.It also sports a fixed glass roof and flush fitted door handles as a part of its exterior arrangement. In terms of dimensions, the new Seal EV will measure 4,800 mm in length, 1875mm in width and 1460 mm in height with a 50:50 weight distribution and a wheelbase of 2,920 mm.BYD Seal Electric dashboardIts interiors will sport a large number of driver and passenger comforts the most prominent of which will be a 15.6 inch rotatable touchscreen infotainment system and a large 10.25 inch digital display unit, It also gets climate controls, central AC vents with drive selector, a heated windscreen, volume controls for audio system and two wireless charging pads.BYD Seal EV Bookings Open In IndiaBYD Seal, having scored a 5 Star Rating at Euro NCAP, will come into India with a long list of safety equipment. It will come in with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), with autonomous emergency braking system, lane support, and speed detection systems along with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and collision avoidance assist.BYD Seal – Battery Options, Claimed RangeIn India, the new BYD Seal will come in with an 82.5 kWh battery pack offering rear wheel drive. It claims a range of 570 kms on the WLTP cycle. It also gets a permanent magnet synchronous motor positioned on the rear axle offering 230 hp power and 360 Nm torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is achieved in 5.9 seconds. Charging is via a regular 11 kW AC charger allowing the new BYD Seal to be charged upto 100 percent in 8.6 hours. It can also be charged via 150 kW charger, wherein 10-80 percent charge is achieved in 37 minutes.With an expected price at around Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom), the new BYD Seal could find itself taking on the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (priced at Rs 45.95 lakh) besides the Kia EV6 and Volvo C40 Recharge. In that price range, it will also compete with the BMW i4 in the electric segment and with ICE powered models such as Mercedes GLB and the Audi Q5. More

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      2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200 Arrives At Dealer Showroom – First Look Walkaround

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      2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 2002024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and NS160: Enhanced Features and Design Updates for a Competitive EdgeBajaj, a renowned name in the two-wheeler industry, captured the attention of the motorcycling community with the launch of the Pulsar NS200 back in 2012. Surprisingly, after almost twelve years, the allure of the Pulsar NS series remains strong and resilient.2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 Arrives At ShowroomIn response to evolving standards, Bajaj has infused new life into the series with subtle upgrades, presenting the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS200 and NS160 with a host of improved features. The new Pulsar NS 200 has now arrived at the dealer showroom. Thanks to Sameer Vlogs, we now have a detailed first look walkround of the new P200 NS.2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 200Contrary to the notion that only retro or classic bikes maintain their charm, the Pulsar NS range defies this stereotype. The motorcycle’s muscular appeal received a boost with the introduction of USD front forks last year. The design, aging gracefully, has now undergone a mild refresh in 2024, showcasing a new face and instrument cluster that align with contemporary customer preferences.2024 updated models offer enhanced features at a slightly increased cost compared to their pre-facelift counterparts. The Pulsar NS160 competes primarily with the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Yamaha FZ, and Honda SP160, while the Pulsar NS200 faces off against the TVS Apache RTR 200 4V and Honda Hornet 2.0. Bajaj aims to strengthen the sales performance of both the Pulsar NS200 and NS160 with the refreshed design and feature-rich offerings.[embedded content]Notable Changes in the 2024 ModelTwelve years post its debut, the Pulsar NS receives a design update that retains its overall silhouette while adding a modern touch. The key changes include a new LED headlight, LED DRLs, and LED turn indicators. The redesigned DRLs exude a more prominent and dynamic appearance, reminiscent of a predator’s strong jawbone.The instrument cluster has undergone a significant transformation, now being fully digital. Unlike Bajaj’s recent launches with Bluetooth connectivity, the 2024 Pulsar NS200 and NS160 come equipped with turn-by-turn navigation—a first for Bajaj motorcycles. Additional features include a new button on the left handlebar switchgear and two buttons below the instrument screen for cycling through various functions.Mechanically, both the Pulsar NS200 and NS160 retain their pre-facelift specifications. The NS200 boasts a KTM-derived 199.5cc single-cylinder SOHC 4V, triple spark liquid-cooled engine with 24 bhp and 18.74 Nm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.The motorcycles share identical cycle parts, including USD telescopic front forks, rear nitrox mono-shock setup, 300mm front disc, 230 mm rear disc, optional dual-channel ABS, 100/80-17 front tyre and 130/70-17 rear tyre, sporty clip-on handlebars, 12L fuel tank, and more—all mounted on a sturdy perimeter frame. Official launch is expected soon, which is when the ex-sh prices will be revealed. More

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      Honda CB350X ADV Renders Based On Leaked Sketch – Africa Twin Colours

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      Honda CB350X ADV RenderHonda is working on a new adventure motorcycle based on the CB350 – Based on the leaked patent sketch, here is a digital renderRenowned Japanese automaker, Honda, continues to make waves in India’s motorcycle market, particularly with its dominance in scooters and commuter motorcycles. Seeking to expand its premium single-cylinder portfolio, Honda is rumoured to be working on a new adventure motorcycle, based on the CB350. Say Namaste to Honda CB350X ADV Render.Honda CB350X ADV RenderedRecent design patents from Honda showcase an adventure bike and a scrambler, both based on the CB350 platform, sparking anticipation for their potential launch in India. Pratyush Rout has visualized the Honda CB350X ADV based on these leaked designs, presenting a rendering that draws comparisons to the Royal Enfield Himalayan.Honda CB350 ADV Design Sketch Patent LeaksWhile some critics may point out similarities with Royal Enfield designs, the render features a purposeful and robust ADV/tourer motorcycle based on leaked design elements. The design includes a muscular fuel tank with tank shrouds, a circular LED headlight similar to the CB350 series, a tall windscreen, knuckle protectors on the handlebar, and a distinctive front beak. Colour themes are based on Honda’s flagship ADV, the Africa Twin.Honda CB350 ADV boasts a spacious rider’s seat and a stepped, split pillion seat, accompanied by a grab rail that doubles as an integrated luggage rack. The up-swept exhaust can, potentially identical to the standard CB350, complements the overall design. The tail light and rear turn indicators may also share similarities with the CB350 RS.Honda CB350X ADV RenderStrategic Market PositioningHonda’s foray into the single-cylinder adventure bike segment aims to capitalize on the current trend, competing with models like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, Triumph Scrambler 400X, BMW G 310 GS, KTM 390 Adventure, and Yezdi Adventure. Rather than leveraging the CB300R platform, Honda takes a unique approach by basing its offering on the CB350 platform.Honda CB350X ADV RenderThe envisioned motorcycle is anticipated to weigh approximately 195 kg, deliver 20.78 bhp and 30 Nm torque, equipped with a 5-speed gearbox, air-cooled SOHC 4V engine, and conventional suspension. Expect it to be priced around Rs. 2.4 lakh (ex-showroom).At this price point, the CB350X ADV will position itself in proximity to competitors like the Triumph Scrambler X and Royal Enfield Himalayan 450, albeit with potentially superior hardware and performance. With a speculated launch towards the end of 2024, the Honda CB350X ADV might not only cater to the domestic market but also hold export potential, following in the footsteps of the recently launched Honda CB350 Classic. More

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      Mahindra XUV Coupe EV Spied In Ladakh Next To Alto, Dzire – Launch In 2025

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      Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedExpected to be around 4,790 mm long, Mahindra XUV coupe has a powerful, dynamic road presenceTo ensure its dominance in an electrified era, Mahindra is working on its next-gen XUV.e and BE range of electric SUVs. All these SUVs will be based on the new INGLO platform. Test mules have been spotted frequently and the latest sighting is that of XUV.e9 from Ladakh, where it was spotted by automotive Ravneesh. It can be seen parked in between the Maruti Dzire and Maruti Alto.Mahindra XUV.e9 – Key featuresXUV.e9 is primarily an electric version of the upcoming Mahindra XUV700 Coupe or XUV800. The coupe SUV instantly gets your attention with the sloping roofline. Its curvy, aerodynamic profile exudes confidence and sophistication, something that’s just not possible with the boxy profile of traditional SUVs.Mahindra XUV Coupe Spied Mahindra had recently filed a design patent for XUV.e9, which reveals features such as a closed front panel, sleek C-shaped DRLs, full-width LED light bar, sharp LED headlamps and chiselled bonnet. Side profile has sporty alloy wheels, circular fenders and ORVMs with integrated turn signals. It is likely that the ORVMs will have cameras to support the 360° view. While the front doors have flush-type handles, the rear door handles are mounted on the C-pillar.At rear, the SUV has shark fin antenna, split aero rear spoiler, wraparound tail lamps, prominent bumper and fake air vent-type elements. XUV.e9’s coupe profile is not just about aesthetics. It also makes the vehicle more efficient by reducing drag. Wheels too have aerodynamic properties. These features will help achieve a higher range for XUV.e9.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedMahindra XUV.e9 interiorsWith multiple bestselling SUVs, it is apparent that Mahindra has consistently focused on customer delight. The approach will be the same for the upcoming electric SUVs. Mahindra is looking to enhance the user experience with a multitude of segment-first features.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedFor example, XUV.e9 will have a triple-screen setup that will cover almost the full width of the dashboard. Along with the touchscreen and instrument cluster, the third screen will be for the front passenger. The cockpit section will be truly transformed with the interconnected 3-screen layout.Mahindra is also expected to debut a new steering wheel with backlit logo for its born-electric SUV range. It is likely to be similar to that of new-gen Tata cars. Upcoming Mahindra electric SUVs can also have a fixed glass roof top. The cabin could get special features to ensure the best visual outcomes with the natural light flowing from the roof.Mahindra XUV Coupe SpiedMahindra XUV.e9 performanceBoth RWD and AWD options will be available with Mahindra XUV.e9. The SUV will have the INGLO platform that has significant optimizations across performance and efficiency. Based on the variant, the battery capacity could be in the range of 60 kWh to 80 kWh. Range is expected to be around 500 km. As for the top speed, Mahindra has already shared a teaser showing XUV.e9 touching 200 km/h in a track environment. More