Mahindra’s XEV 9e serves up a delicious mix of fun and technology in a usable, family friendly package!
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We’ve very often called cars ‘mad’. To say that they’re ‘mad’ fast, ‘mad’ spacious, ‘mad’ on technology — tells you it’s bringing something new to the table or pushes the boundaries of what’s acceptable. By that definition, Mahindra’s XEV 9e is certifiably mad. But what really makes this package shine, is the ‘method’ to the madness.
To BE or not to BE
Quite a few heads very surely scratched at Mahindra HQ, figuring out what to call this thing. It does not fall into their new baby brand ‘BE’. It builds on a rather familiar sounding XUV, and is an ‘XEV’. This is despite sharing practically all the running gear and gubbins with the new car. Why the XEV, then?
It seems like Mahindra wanted to have something in store for those who wanted a sense of familiarity while making the switch to electric. The XEV’s name, the ‘Mahinda Electric’ infinity logo and the car itself bring that familiar friendly feeling.
There’s no rocket science — in design and principle — this is a coupe-version of the Mahindra’s erstwhile ICE flagship, the XUV700. But it’s one design that’s been executed rather cleanly. It’s been decades since BMW first tried ‘normalising’ a coupe SUV, but that acceptance seems to have finally arrived to the mass market. The XEV’s large size has given the designers some crucial real estate to carve out something proportional. This is a great starting point.
Gallery
We’ve very often called cars ‘mad’. To say that they’re ‘mad’ fast, ‘mad’ spacious, ‘mad’ on technology — tells you it’s bringing something new to the table or pushes the boundaries of what’s acceptable. By that definition, Mahindra’s XEV 9e is certifiably mad. But what really makes this package shine, is the ‘method’ to the madness.
To BE or not to BE
Quite a few heads very surely scratched at Mahindra HQ, figuring out what to call this thing. It does not fall into their new baby brand ‘BE’. It builds on a rather familiar sounding XUV, and is an ‘XEV’. This is despite sharing practically all the running gear and gubbins with the new car. Why the XEV, then?
It seems like Mahindra wanted to have something in store for those who wanted a sense of familiarity while making the switch to electric. The XEV’s name, the ‘Mahinda Electric’ infinity logo and the car itself bring that familiar friendly feeling.
There’s no rocket science — in design and principle — this is a coupe-version of the Mahindra’s erstwhile ICE flagship, the XUV700. But it’s one design that’s been executed rather cleanly. It’s been decades since BMW first tried ‘normalising’ a coupe SUV, but that acceptance seems to have finally arrived to the mass market. The XEV’s large size has given the designers some crucial real estate to carve out something proportional. This is a great starting point.
Introduction
The XEV 9E is an electric compact SUV designed to challenge traditional automotive standards by combining electric mobility with cutting-edge technology and a stylish design. The car targets customers seeking eco-friendly alternatives without sacrificing performance or driving pleasure. The XEV 9E, a newcomer in the electric vehicle (EV) market, promises to offer a blend of sustainability, practicality, and modern features. This first ride review will focus on various aspects of the vehicle, including its driving experience, design, technology, and overall performance.
Exterior Design
The XEV 9E is a compact SUV with a sleek and modern exterior. The design blends contemporary aesthetics with futuristic touches, making it visually appealing without being too over-the-top. The front features a bold, dynamic grille with angular lines that give the SUV an aggressive yet refined look. The headlights are slim and sharp, incorporating LED technology to enhance the vehicle’s modern appeal. Overall, the proportions of the vehicle feel balanced, and the compact size makes it suitable for urban environments while still maintaining a spacious feel.
From a functional standpoint, the design is practical, with good visibility for the driver and well-placed aerodynamic elements that enhance efficiency. The sleek curves contribute to a low drag coefficient, improving the vehicle’s range and overall performance.
Interior and Cabin
Inside, the XEV 9E continues the theme of modernity and comfort. The cabin has a minimalistic yet functional layout, with high-quality materials and a clean design. The dashboard features a large touchscreen infotainment system that controls various functions, including media, navigation, and vehicle settings. The user interface is intuitive, and the screen is responsive, allowing for easy interaction while driving.
The seats are supportive and comfortable, with enough space for both front and rear passengers. Materials used throughout the cabin, such as soft-touch plastics and premium upholstery, contribute to the overall high-end feel. The layout of the interior emphasizes openness, with ample legroom and headroom, making long trips comfortable for all occupants.
Driving Experience
The driving experience is one of the most critical factors in evaluating the XEV 9E, and the vehicle does not disappoint. The electric drivetrain delivers instant torque, offering a smooth and responsive acceleration. The 9E’s performance is enhanced by its lightweight construction, which improves handling and agility. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing confidence around corners and during highway maneuvers.
On the road, the XEV 9E feels composed, offering a balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps effectively, ensuring a smooth ride on both rough city streets and highways. However, the car remains connected to the road, providing a sense of engagement while driving. The vehicle’s regenerative braking system works efficiently, allowing for smooth deceleration and increased energy recovery.
Battery and Range
The XEV 9E is powered by a high-capacity battery that offers a competitive range for its class. During the first ride, the vehicle demonstrated a range that exceeded expectations, easily covering long distances without significant drops in battery percentage. The range varies depending on driving conditions, with urban environments showing higher efficiency than highways due to regenerative braking and lower speeds.
The battery’s efficiency is complemented by fast-charging capabilities, making it convenient for drivers who need a quick top-up on longer trips. The fast-charging infrastructure is expanding globally, and the XEV 9E benefits from being compatible with both home and public charging stations.
Technology and Features
The XEV 9E is equipped with an impressive array of tech features, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and connectivity options. The vehicle comes with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system. These features make the driving experience safer and less stressful, especially in busy traffic conditions.
In addition to the safety tech, the infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system is responsive, with clear graphics and easy access to various functions. A premium sound system adds to the overall cabin experience, ensuring that passengers can enjoy their favorite music with high-quality audio.
Performance in Different Conditions
The XEV 9E was tested in a variety of driving conditions, including city roads, highways, and off-road terrain. In urban settings, the vehicle performed excellently, offering quick acceleration, smooth cornering, and a comfortable ride. The regenerative braking system also helped maintain efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
On highways, the 9E proved stable, with high-speed handling and low cabin noise levels. The electric motor’s quiet operation contributed to a peaceful driving experience, and the vehicle’s stability and road-holding abilities were impressive at high speeds.
Although primarily designed for urban use, the XEV 9E also handled off-road conditions relatively well, thanks to its capable traction control system and moderate ground clearance. While not intended for extreme off-roading, it can handle rough roads and gravel paths without trouble, adding versatility for adventurous drivers.
Charging Infrastructure and Convenience
One of the key considerations for any electric vehicle is its charging infrastructure, and the XEV 9E does not disappoint. The vehicle supports both home charging and fast public charging options, allowing drivers to top up the battery quickly when necessary. In urban areas, charging stations are becoming increasingly common, making the 9E a practical option for everyday use.
For those who live in areas with limited access to public chargers, the ability to charge the vehicle at home is a significant advantage. The vehicle’s onboard charging system supports different levels of charging, ensuring flexibility for various user needs.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The XEV 9E is competitively priced in the electric vehicle market, offering a compelling value proposition for customers who want an eco-friendly, tech-packed vehicle without breaking the bank. Its pricing places it in direct competition with other compact SUVs in the electric segment, but its comprehensive features, range, and driving experience give it an edge over many rivals.
For potential buyers looking for an entry into the world of electric vehicles, the XEV 9E represents an attractive option, especially considering its combination of affordability, performance, and tech features.
Conclusion
The XEV 9E is an impressive entry into the electric vehicle market, offering a compelling blend of design, performance, technology, and practicality. From its sleek exterior and comfortable interior to its responsive driving experience and advanced tech features, the 9E delivers a lot for its price.
While there are still areas where the vehicle could improve, such as more refined off-road capabilities and further enhancements to interior space, the XEV 9E proves itself to be a solid contender in the growing electric SUV market. With its competitive pricing and range, it is well-suited for those looking to make the transition to an electric vehicle without compromising on style or performance.
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