Mahindra & Mahindra is reportedly gearing up to launch another electric SUV soon — and speculation is rife about what it could be.
With the Indian auto giant actively expanding its EV portfolio and making bold moves in the “born electric” space, several clues and leaks point to the likely identity and features of this upcoming ride. Below is a synthesized overview of what we know — and what we can reasonably guess.
Mahindra’s EV Strategy
Mahindra has already made its entrance into the electric SUV space with models like the XEV 9e, built on its INGLO platform. The company’s roadmap suggests a steady rollout of more EVs, including multiple SUVs of different sizes and energy profiles over the next few years.
In that context, a “new electric SUV” could take several forms: a larger variant of an existing EV, a more off-road capable model, or a more mass-market offering. Let’s see what the clues suggest.
What Could It Be?
1. Mahindra XEV 7e — a 7-Seater Electric SUV
One of the strongest leads is XEV 7e, sometimes referred to as the electric version of the XUV700 (or inspired by the XUV.e8 concept).
- Expected timing: Leaked reports suggest the XEV 7e could launch as early as November 2025.
- Powertrain & battery: It’s likely to share key components with the XEV 9e — battery options of 59 kWh and 79 kWh, with DC fast charging capability (140 kW / 175 kW) expected.
- Range & performance: The 79 kWh version claims a range in the ballpark of 656 km (on the more generous MIDC cycle).
- Design & features: Leaked images hint at a blanked front grille, flush door handles, LED light bars, and an overall silhouette closer to the XUV700’s proportions. Inside, it could inherit a triple-screen layout, advanced ADAS, 360° camera, and other high-end EV features.
- Seating: Being a seven-seater is a major differentiator — it would enable Mahindra to compete in the mid-to-large electric SUV category (versus the typical 5-seaters).
In short, the XEV 7e is one of the most plausible candidates for the “new” SUV Mahindra is readying.
2. An Electric Thar Version — Thar.e / Vision Thar.e
Mahindra has already floated the idea of an electric off-road SUV in concept form — Vision Thar.e, sometimes also called Thar.e.
- This concept combines rugged styling cues (boxy design, off-road tires) with EV architecture.
- It might be targeted for a 2026 launch as part of Mahindra’s longer-term plan.
- If realized, it could bring unique value: an EV that retains Thar’s off-road legacy but with zero-emissions appeal.
While the Thar e is an exciting possibility, its more specialized off-road focus might make it less likely as the next mass-market launch compared to the XEV 7e.
3. A More Entry-Level Electric SUV (Based on XUV 3XO)
Another candidate is a more affordable electric SUV based on the XUV 3XO platform — essentially a replacement (or electric sibling) for the XUV 400 EV.
- This would appeal more directly to mainstream buyers, offering a less premium price point but still fitting into Mahindra’s EV ambitions.
- Design tweaks would include EV-specific styling (electric grille, new LED signatures) while retaining the general stance of the 3XO.
If Mahindra wants to expand across segments, such a model might follow soon after a larger EV launch.
What to Expect — Features & Positioning
Whatever the identity of the next electric SUV, we can make educated guesses about what Mahindra will bring to the table, based on its recent EVs and competitive benchmarking:
- Platform & architecture: The INGLO skateboard platform will likely continue underpinning its EVs, allowing modular growth across SUV sizes.
- Battery & range: 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery options are becoming standard in Mahindra’s EV plans, with the higher pack likely pushing toward 600+ km (MIDC) or strong real-world numbers.
- Performance: Expect dual-motor AWD options for flagship trims, especially if Mahindra wants to match global EV rivals. Reports already suggest the XEV 7e might offer an AWD variant.
- Tech & features: Triple-screen layouts, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), 360° cameras, over-the-air updates, ambient lighting, air purification — features now becoming expected in premium EVs — will almost certainly be part of the mix.
- Positioning & pricing: If Mahindra is to be competitive, the new SUV will likely sit in the ₹25–35 lakh bracket (ex-showroom) for higher variants, with lower trims more accessible. It needs to undercut or match rivals in value per feature.
- Launch timeline: Most credible leaks point to late 2025 for the XEV 7e.
Risks & Considerations
- Battery supply & costs: Sourcing enough high-quality cells (especially for higher battery capacities) is a challenge in India.
- Charging infrastructure: To assure buyers, Mahindra must ensure access to fast charging — both its own network and third-party support.
- Competition: Brands like Tata, MG, BYD, and others are accelerating EV entries. Mahindra needs to differentiate (off-road capability, strong features, good warranties).
- Consumer acceptance: Convincing regular SUV buyers to shift to EVs hinges on range confidence, service reliability, resale values, and total cost of ownership.
Conclusion
Based on the available evidence, the most likely candidate for “the new electric SUV soon” from Mahindra is the XEV 7e, a 7-seater EV closely tied to the XUV700 lineage. Its positioning, features, and timing make it a very credible bet. After that, models like an electric Thar variant (Thar.e) or a more affordable EV based on XUV 3XO may follow.