Mahindra To Introduce A Dedicated EV Platform By 2025

• Both models are likely to utilise the Mahindra Electric Scalable Modular Architecture (MESMA) range of battery packs showcased at Auto Expo 2020.

• Mahindra claims both EVs will get a distinct design and feature advanced connected car tech.

• Carmaker unlikely to divulge more details anytime soon.

With the electric vehicle industry continuing to gather momentum, Mahindra has announced it will launch two electric SUVs, codenamed Born EV1 and Born EV2, by 2025-26 based on a dedicated EV platform. These are part of Mahindra’s vast roadmap for nine new models by 2026. 

Funster concept image used for representational purposes

Unlike the upcoming XUV300 electric, these EVs will be ground-up SUVs built on a dedicated EV architecture. These are part of Mahindra’s planned investment worth Rs 17,000 crore over the next three years, with Rs 3,000 crore allocated for electric vehicles.

Funster concept image used for representational purposes

We expect them to utilise the Mahindra Electric Scalable Modular Architecture (MESMA) range of battery packs that are compatible with not only converted existing ICE models, but also ground-up electric vehicles. The range of battery packs spread out to the MESMA 48, MESMA 72, and MESMA 350. The MESMA 350, showcased at Auto Expo 2020, is compatible with electric motors ranging between 60kW (81PS) and 280kW (380PS), dual motor concepts, and battery sizes up to 80kWh.  

eXUV300 image used for representational purposes

Powertrains aside, Mahindra says the highlight of these EVs will not just be the experience they offer, but also the design and human-machine interface. So we could be looking at a design philosophy that stands out among traditional Mahindra models as well as some nifty connected car technology. Speaking of design, Mahindra recently announced the setting up of Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (M.A.D.E) which will contribute to the development of various products, including these dedicated SUVs. 

Since there’s a long way to go before we see these two models, Mahindra is unlikely to divulge more details anytime soon. 

Before Mahindra introduces the two dedicated electric vehicles, we are expecting the eKUV100 and the eXUV300 to go on sale in India. There’ll also be more electrified versions of incoming ICE models: the XUV700, the W620 SUV (possibly XUV900 flagship), and the V201 (could be next-gen XUV500).