Now here is something a bit different from Mahindra. The Indian auto giant has just launched its BE 6e in its home market. While it looks like a concept, this is the production reality of Mahindra’s new electric coupe SUV.
The starting price in India is equivalent to $NZ38,500, with local reports suggesting the BE 6e rivals premium segment EVs in terms of range, power and features.
The electric SUV has a futuristic design with all the right styling elements in place. The front end is described as having a floating spoiler integrated into its bumper while the sloping roof line terminates in a two-part rear wing. The C-shaped light signature is distinctive too.
There is 207mm of ground clearance while the 4.37m long BE rides on a 2775mm wheelbase. The turning circle is said to be less than 10m.
The Mahindra BE 6e has twin screens in the cabin and an HUD with an augmented reality display. There aren’t many buttons, the touchscreen in charge of most functions. There’s the usual floating console design while gears are switched up via an interesting-looking lever. There’s a panoramic infinity glass roof with ambient light projected on to it and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. There is the option to add a pair of screens in the rear too. In the boot is 455L of cargo space while up front there is a 45L frunk.
Read our 2023 Mahindra XUV700 review
There are two battery options offered; a 79kWh pack allows for a claimed 656km range (tested to Automotive Research Association of India standards, so not sure what that means in WLTP terms) or a 59kWh pack for 400km (ARAI standard). The max DC fast charge rate is 175kW, meaning 20 to 80 per cent in 20 minutes. The AC on-board charger is either 11 or 7kW depending on the model.
The battery sends its energy to a single rear-mounted motor with up to 210kW and 380Nm which is enough for a 0-100 run of a claimed 6.7 seconds. It has four driving modes; Boost, Race, Everyday and Range. The BE 6e is said to have semi-active suspension, though it sounds more like regular adaptive damping to us.
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