In the EV space that’s largely dominated by Tata Motors, Mahindra will be looking to make gradual ingress throughout 2024, with models like the updated XUV400 and new XUV300 EV, but what the company is really betting on to take its EV game ahead is the upcoming XUV700 EV – or XUV.e8 as it was shown in concept form – and other models on the born-electric INGLO platform.
We now have a new spy shot of the Mahindra XUV.e8 within factory premises, in what looks like close-to-production guise. The debut is slated for late 2024.
- Mahindra XUV.e8 to get up to 80kWh battery pack
- Interior will have three screens spanning the dash
- Exterior largely similar to XUV700, but gets EV-specific details
Mahindra XUV.e8 seen in close-to-production guise
Although it is still far from a finished product, this is our first, uncamouflaged sighting of the body panels of the XUV.e8. And from the looks of it, the bonnet and the doors look quite similar to the XUV700 – it even has the kink near the C-pillar and a roofline that has a similar flow. This also matches the design patent Mahindra had filed earlier.
But what’ll be unique to this EV is an all-new fascia with a full-width LED light bar headlining the nose, and also dropping down vertically into the bumper. As is typical with EVs, we can see a completely sealed-off grille. The housings for the triangular headlamps are positioned in the bumper. The rear is not visible here, but the XUV.e8 concept carried over the design of the regular XUV700; the same can be expected of the production-spec model.
Mahindra XUV.e8 interior and features
Previous interior spy shots have revealed three horizontally oriented screens – one behind the steering wheel serving as the digital driver's display, the one in the centre serving infotainment duties, and the third one for the passenger providing multiple details about the vehicle and more. It will also have a new touch-based climate control panel and a flat-bottomed, two-spoke steering wheel, similar to new Tata SUVs.
There will, however, be some parts sharing with the regular XUV700 to keep costs competitive. Some of the switchgear, door panels and seats are likely to be shared with its ICE-powered cousin.
Mahindra XUV.e8 powertrain details
Despite sharing the body with the XUV700, the XUV.e8 will be completely unique under the skin being based on Mahindra’s born-electric INGLO skateboard platform. Mahindra has previously confirmed that the XUV.e8 will come with an all-wheel drive system and battery pack options up to 80kWh will be available. Power outputs will range between 230hp to upwards of 350hp.
The XUV.e8 will be the first upcoming Mahindra EV to make it to production, and it will hit the market by December 2024. The SUV-coupe version – the XUV.e9 – will follow soon after.
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