Indian brand Mahindra appears poised to push into the electric vehicle market with a bold lineup of five concept cars under the XUV and BE sub-brands. The models are all built on a new Inglo architecture and leverage components from the VW Group MEB platform.
The BE-branded crossovers give off a distinctly futuristic vibe, while the XUVs seem closer to what production versions might look like. All shown cars are digital renderings, as real prototypes have not yet been released for testing or review.
VW Group and Mahindra recently formalized an agreement that will allow the two automakers to share electric powertrain technology, battery systems, and battery cells. The collaboration aims to accelerate the development of a broader EV ecosystem across both markets and beyond.
The Inglo platform is designed to be compatible with 60 to 80 kilowatt-hour battery packs. With fast charging, the packs can reach about 80 percent of full capacity in under 30 minutes, reducing downtime for long trips and daily commutes alike.
These crossovers offer rear-wheel drive with 231 horsepower or all-wheel drive with 340 horsepower, enabling accelerations from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in roughly six seconds. In practical terms, Indian electric vehicles could post stronger performance than some models from established brands in the segment, including Audi, VW, and Skoda, depending on configuration.
New models are expected to go on sale beginning in 2024, with Indian customers receiving orders first. Following the initial launch, the lineup is anticipated to reach other markets, and there is consideration of distribution to additional regions, possibly including a timing window for Russia.
Credit: Mahindra