If there are two automobile manufacturers who cannot get enough of going face to face, it’s Mahindra and Tata. Both have similar roots and each have managed to seek out strong positions of their specific market segments. If you are on the lookout for solid, versatile SUVs from an Indian manufacturer, it’s hard to assume a more suitable automaker than Mahindra. Likewise, when you want an electrical automobile made by an Indian automaker, just about all roads result in Tata Motors. This shouldn’t be surprising considering that the brand has managed to capture around 70 percent of the segment, but what if Mahindra desired to take a bite of this pie? What if Mahindra decided to enter the space Tata is currently in with a product that directly challenges the all-new Tata EV? Well, that is exactly what Mahindra has done with its all-new XEV 9e, the Tata-Curvv.ev-rival SUV Coupe. With its attractive exterior, advanced technology and splendid interior, it looks extremely promising. We get behind the wheel to seek out out more.
INGLO platform
The latest advanced INGLO platform underpins the XEV 9e and BE 6e (see news clip on the left) and may also be the idea for future Mahindra electric vehicles. The heart of the platform is the lithium-iron-phosphate battery, which within the case of the XEV 9e is obtainable in two sizes. In terms of dimensions, the XEV 9e is 4,789 mm long, has a ground clearance of 207 mm and a trunk capability of 663 liters. In addition, there’s 150 liters of trunk capability. In terms of design, of the 2 latest electric vehicles launched by Mahindra, the XEV 9e is the more mature – and refined. The bi-LED headlights look great, the integrated daytime running lights don’t look any less elegant, and the rear has a sleek light bar. 19-inch wheels are standard, but 20-inch wheels are also available. There can also be an illuminated Mahindra logo which looks quite unique.
Face recognition
The large surface area routinely opens up loads of space inside, but you may’t expect the extent of technological innovation. Powered by Qualcomm-Snapdragon, the 43.4-inch triple-screen system covers your entire width of the dashboard and includes not only a digital driver display, a central touchscreen, but additionally a dedicated screen for the front passenger. From advanced navigation to wireless smartphone connectivity to YouTube streaming, the system does all of it. Of course, Mahindra didn’t stop there. It is provided with a facial recognition function that monitors the driving force’s concentration level and fatigue. The fixed panoramic roof also features the Mahindra logo and there’s loads of space within the cabin. Despite the coupe’s sloping roofline, the XEV 9e offers ample headroom for rear passengers.
Powered by Qualcomm-Snapdragon, the 43.4-inch triple-screen system covers your entire width of the dashboard and includes not only a digital driver display, a central touchscreen system, but additionally a dedicated screen for the front passenger
There’s a complicated parking assist system that, in a really BMW-like fashion, allows drivers to park the XEV using the handheld remote control. There is a selfie camera within the cabin, the infotainment system is provided with OTT platforms and even shopping apps are installed within the system. ADAS level 2+, seven airbags and a wide selection of safety technologies can be found. We also expect the XEV 9e to perform excellently in independent crash tests (Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP).
Great peace and quiet
In motion, the XEV may be very calm while remaining flexible. Stability at high speeds is second to none, handling is confidence-inspiring and the brakes also provide good grip. In addition, there’s impressive regenerative braking. The large tires and independent 5-link suspension deserve praise for the XEV 9e’s impeccable road behavior.
The electric SUV on this top-of-the-line trim we tested draws power from a 286 HP configuration and a complete weight of 38.74 kg-m, which allows it to go from 0 to 100 km/h in lower than 7 seconds. This doesn’t hinder its overall practicality either, because the 79 kWh battery allows for a fuel economy of 656 km, of which Mahindra claims a variety of 500 km is realistically possible. The configuration also enables fast charging, and the 175 kW charger will charge the XEV 9e battery from 20 to 80 percent in only 20 minutes, the carmaker claims, making it ideal for each every day commutes and long journeys.
The XEV 9e is Mahindra’s entry into this segment, and while it’s only the start of the corporate’s all-electric resurgence, priced from ₹21.9 lakh ex-showroom, it represents, what I can confidently say, excellent value for money. It seems to have a bonus when it comes to interior, overall technology and even performance in comparison with the Tata Curvv.ev, and for somebody on the lookout for an expensive, feature-rich EV that can also be good to drive, the XEV 9e has rather a lot going for it this means.
