Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch in India highlights: Mahindra is all set to begin a new chapter in the electric vehicle (EV) industry by introducing its first two Born Electric range of vehicles– XEV 9e and BE 6e. Along with these two Born Electric models, Mahindra’s in-house developed modular skateboard EV architecture named INGLO also made its official debut at Unlimit India at the Mahindra Research Valley near Chennai.
Like all Born Electric Mahindra models, the XEV 9e and BE 6e will be underpinned by the INGLO platform which can be had in different configurations. The entire automotive industry has been keenly awaiting the launch of Mahindra & Mahindra’s upcoming born electric range of SUVs which broke covers a couple of years ago in their concept stages. Here are all the highlights from the launch of the Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e India Launch Highlights
We are driving the Mahindra XEV 9e today and impressions from our first drive drop soon. So stay tuned to Express Drives.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live
The complete price list for Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e will be announced at the next edition of Bharat Mobilty Expo in January 2025. For more details, read our launch report of the two new Born Electric SUVs from Mahindra.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live: Battery Range
The 79kWh LFP (Lithium-iron phosphate) battery promises a range of 656km (MIDC) on a single charge for the XEV 9e and 682 km for the BE 6e. However, the WLTP single-charge range for both vehicles are 533 km and 550 km, respecitvely.
Mahindra BE 6e Launch Live: Design
The Mahindra BE 6e is a striking electric SUV that closely resembles its radical concept counterpart. The production model retains the concept’s sharp, edgy design, with only a few subtle differences: conventional wing mirrors replace the concept’s cameras, and the flush-fitting door handles are slightly repositioned.
The SUV’s bold styling is highlighted by pronounced wheel arches, thick gloss black cladding, and a unique air duct between the headlights that channels air through the bonnet for improved aerodynamics. Other eye-catching features include illuminated logos, C-shaped LED daytime running lights, a two-part split spoiler, and full-width wraparound LED taillights.
The high-deck rear with a coupe-like roofline and a wraparound glasshouse creates a distinctive silhouette. However, this design choice may compromise rear-seat visibility due to the pinched window line. The rear bumper’s diffuser-like effect further emphasizes the vehicle’s sporty character.
Mahindra XEV 9e Launch Live: Design
The XEV 9e is a sleek electric SUV with a distinctive coupe-like profile. Its striking design features multiple sharp cuts and creases, reminiscent of its smaller sibling, the BE 6e. A prominent faux grille and a futuristic headlight cluster, connected by a sleek LED lightbar, dominate the front fascia. The liberal use of piano black accents adds a premium touch to the exterior.
Aerodynamic efficiency is key to the 9e’s design. Flush door handles, a muscular shoulder line, and specially designed 19-inch alloy wheels contribute to its streamlined look. Optional 20-inch alloy wheels offer an even more aggressive stance. At the rear, slim LED taillights, connected by a lightbar, sit below a subtle spoiler-like element, completing the vehicle’s sporty and modern aesthetic.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live: Prices announced
The XEV 9e will be available at an introductory starting price of Rs 21.79 lakh while the BE 6e is priced at an introductory Rs 18.90 lakh (both ex-showroom), whereas indicative on-road prices (Chennai) will be around Rs 23.59 lakh and Rs 21.90 lakh. Both ex-showroom prices do not include any chargers or installation cost.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live: Delivery timeline revealed
Mahindra has annoounced delivery timelines of BE 6e and XEV 9e. The models will start reaching dealerships in a phased manner from January 2025 end. Deliveries are expected to commence around end of February and start of March 2025.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live: Built on MAIA
Mahindra has also introduced MAIA which stands for Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture, commonly referred to as SOW or Software on Wheels. This includes highlights such as drive assist technology, HD streaming on mutiple displays, advanced neural engine, cybersecurity, connected car tech, and in cab experience like audio, lightng, monitoring, etc.
Powering the XEV 9e and BE 6e is a compact three-in-one powertrain comprising motor(s), inverter and transmission, which dishes out 210 kW (282 bhp) and 380 Nm of peak torque with the 79 kWh battery and 231 bhp with the smaller 59 kWh unit.
This motor has the best power density of 2kW per kg. 0 to 100 kmph acceleration time for the BE 6e is 6.7 seconds and for the XEV 9e is 6.8 seconds.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live: Dimensions
In terms of dimensions, the XEV 9e measures 4,789 mm in length, ground clearance of 207 mm, boot space of 663 litres and a frunk of 150 litres. The BE 6e has a length of 4,371 mm, ground clearance of 207 mm and boot space of 455 litres and 45 litres front frunk.
Mahindra has claimed a real-world range of over 500 km on a single charge for the 79 kWh. The battery pack supports fast DC charging of up to 175 kW. This allows the battery to juice up from 20 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes. Made of Lithium iron phosphate chemistry, the batteries come with lifetime warranty.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live: Mahindra claims 5-star safety rating for BE 6e and XEV 9e
Mahindra makes big claim of achieving 5-star safety ratings for both BE 6e and XEV 9e. Even though both the SUVs are yet to be crash tested by Global NCAP or Bharat NCAP, Mahindra is confident of scoring a 5-star rating based on its internal testing.
Mahindra XEV 9e and BE 6e Launch Live: INGLO architecture details
All Mahindra Born EVs will be underpinned by the INGLO skateboard architecture which has been co-developed by Mahindra and Volkswagen. The platform can also accommodate different drivetrains: front-wheel-drive, rear-wheel-drive, and all-wheel-drive. Some of the other highlights of the INGLO are a semi-active independent dampers, advaned Lithium Phosphate battery, Brake by wire with IEB, and high power steering with VGR.
