Mahindra’s Upcoming Electric SUV Flaunts Striking Design and Export Ambitions
In the ever-evolving landscape of electric vehicles in India, Mahindra is set to make its mark with the upcoming BE.05 electric SUV. Notably, Mahindra is the pioneer in the Indian automotive scene to venture into the electric vehicle domain. With EVs gaining popularity, Mahindra is poised to re-enter the fray, starting with the XUV400 and a forthcoming line-up of electric SUVs under the BE and XUV.e banners. The latest sighting of the BE.05 during testing provides a close-up look at its unconventional exterior design and captivating styling.
Export Ambitions and the INGLO Platform
Mahindra’s ambitions for international markets have driven the creation of the INGLO platform, serving as the foundation for the BE.05 and a lineup of five eSUVs in the initial phase, with more to follow. The company has already initiated testing for INGLO platform-equipped EVs, demonstrating an impressive top speed of 200 km/h. During the BE.05 concept’s unveiling event in the UK, Mahindra hinted that most of the design language would transition to the production model. Fortunately, these new spy shots confirm that the majority of these striking design elements have indeed made it to the production-spec model.
Striking Exterior Design
Under the guidance of Pratap Bose’s design team, Mahindra has made a bold and memorable entrance into the electric SUV arena. The front end boasts massive LED daytime running lights (DRLs), a distinctive feature unseen in other manufacturers’ vehicles. These DRLs occupy nearly 70% of the vertical real estate on the front fascia and continue into the rear tail section.
The rear of the BE.05 showcases even wilder and more animalistic LED signatures for the tail lights. It’s worth noting that these test mules had temporary tail lights, not the final production versions. The vehicle sports a compact rear windshield and a sporty, futuristic roof spoiler above it. When viewed from the side, the BE.05 exhibits some of the most striking rear haunches, contributing to its eye-catching profile.
The angular side profile features a large windshield, lending the vehicle a futuristic silhouette. The sheet metal is adorned with intricate cuts and creases, showcasing an exhaustive design approach. While Mahindra has been known for complex designs in the past, the BE.05 successfully brings together these design attributes, making it one of India’s most visually striking compact SUVs.
Tech and Features
The BE.05 is part of Mahindra’s new BE (Born Electric) vertical and features the BE logo rather than the traditional Twin Peaks logo. Inside, the concept revealed a physical partition between the front seats, a feature observed in recent test mules as well. While the concept showcased a twin-screen layout, the production version may opt for a single instrument screen or retain the twin displays.
Power and Pricing
Under the hood, the BE.05 is expected to house a battery with a capacity ranging from 60 to 80 kWh. Mahindra plans to offer both single-motor and dual-motor layouts. As for pricing, it is anticipated to fall within the range of Rs. 30 lakh to Rs. 40 lakh. The official launch is slated for 2024 or beyond.
The Mahindra BE.05 is not just another electric SUV; it’s a bold statement of design and technology, poised to make waves in both domestic and international markets.
