Mahindra XEV 9e: When Mahindra unveiled the XEV 9e in November 2024, it wasn’t just launching another electric vehicle – it was firing the opening salvo in India’s electric revolution. Priced between Rs 21.90-31.25 lakh, this coupe-SUV represents everything that’s possible when Indian engineering meets global ambitions. The XEV 9e doesn’t apologize for being Indian; instead, it proudly showcases what domestic manufacturers can achieve when they stop following and start leading.
Built on the revolutionary INGLO platform and powered by MAIA – touted as the “fastest automotive mind in the world” – the XEV 9e marks Mahindra’s transition from traditional SUV maker to electric powerhouse. With over 30,000 bookings on day one and deliveries already underway, the market’s response has been nothing short of phenomenal.
Design That Defies Convention
Park an XEV 9e anywhere, and watch it become the center of attention. The coupe-SUV silhouette, with its sloping roofline and muscular stance, looks like it’s been transported from 2035. The illuminated Mahindra ‘Infinity’ logo takes pride of place on the upright bonnet, while the full-width LED light bar creates a signature that’s unmistakable even in pitch darkness.
What’s particularly clever about the design is how it manages to look futuristic without being alien. The inverted L-shaped DRLs, flush door handles, and aerodynamically optimized 19-inch wheels all serve functional purposes while adding to the visual drama. Available in striking colors like Tango Red and Stealth Black, each shade accentuates the SUV’s athletic proportions differently, allowing buyers to match their personality with their ride.
Cabin Experience Beyond Imagination
Step inside the XEV 9e, and you’re greeted by what can only be described as a digital symphony. The triple-screen setup – comprising a 12.3-inch digital cluster, central infotainment display, and passenger screen – creates a 110.08 cm wide digital canvas that rivals anything from Silicon Valley. But Mahindra hasn’t fallen into the trap of digitizing everything; physical controls for essential functions remain, striking the perfect balance.
The panoramic sunroof with its ‘Light Me Up’ feature takes ambiance to another level. Imagine choosing from 16 million color combinations for your ambient lighting, synchronized with the roof illumination. The LiveYourMood feature, with sonic tunes curated by AR Rahman himself, transforms every journey into a personalized experience. Whether you prefer the Calm, Cozy, or Club theme, the XEV 9e adapts to your mood, adjusting seat position, climate control, and lighting automatically.
Performance That Electrifies
Numbers tell part of the story – 228-281 horsepower depending on the battery pack, 0-100 kmph in under 7 seconds, and a top speed that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear. But it’s how the XEV 9e delivers this performance that matters. The instant torque delivery, characteristic of electric powertrains, makes city driving effortless and highway overtaking drama-free.
The three drive modes – Range, Everyday, and Race – alter the vehicle’s character dramatically. Need to conserve battery? Range mode optimizes every electron. Daily commute? Everyday mode balances performance and efficiency perfectly. Want to show that German sedan who’s boss? Race mode unleashes the full fury of electric propulsion, complete with a 10-second Boost function that pins you to your seat.
Range Anxiety? What’s That?
With the 79kWh battery pack offering an MIDC-certified range of 656 kilometers, the XEV 9e laughs in the face of range anxiety. Real-world testing has shown over 500 kilometers is easily achievable, making inter-city trips a breeze. But it’s the charging capabilities that truly impress – 20% to 80% in just 20 minutes using a 175kW DC fast charger means coffee breaks are all you need for a substantial top-up.
For daily charging, Mahindra offers both 7.3kW and 11.2kW AC chargers. The larger unit can fully charge the 79kWh battery overnight, perfect for home charging. The company’s growing network of fast chargers and partnerships with charging infrastructure providers ensure you’re never far from a power source.
Technology That Thinks Ahead
The XEV 9e doesn’t just transport you; it looks after you. The Level 2+ ADAS suite, with five radars and multiple cameras, provides a safety net that’s always active but never intrusive. Features like EyeDentity – the driver monitoring system that doubles as a selfie camera for video calls – showcase Mahindra’s understanding of modern needs. The Secure360 feature records surroundings continuously, providing peace of mind in parking situations.
Autopark deserves special mention. Using 12 ultrasonic sensors, the XEV 9e can handle perpendicular, angular, and parallel parking scenarios. The remote-controlled parking option means you can step out in tight spaces and let the car park itself – a party trick that never gets old.
Mahindra XEV 9e Market Impact and Future Vision
The XEV 9e’s success extends beyond sales figures. It’s proven that Indian consumers are ready to embrace homegrown electric excellence when it matches or exceeds global standards.With waiting periods stretching to six months and celebrities like AR Rahman choosing the XEV 9e, Mahindra has created more than a product – they’ve created a movement.
As competitors scramble to respond and Tesla continues to delay its India entry, the XEV 9e stands as proof that the future of electric mobility might just have an Indian accent. With new variants planned and continuous over-the-air updates promised, this is just the beginning of Mahindra’s electric journey. The XEV 9e isn’t just unlimiting India; it’s showing the world what unlimited Indian ambition can achieve.