Mahindra's New NU_IQ Platform Is Its New Approach To Go Global: Details

Homegrown SUV maker Mahindra & Mahindra Limited has introduced its NU_IQ platform, a modular multi-energy architecture designed to power an entirely new generation of sport utility vehicles. The car manufacturer also presented four revolutionary concept vehicles built on this innovative foundation, signalling a major shift in the company's product strategy.

Mahindra's NU_IQ architecture emerges from the company's five-pronged approach to go global. Its strategic automotive vision is focused on developing vehicles that fundamentally challenge conventional mobility standards, the company said.

The new NU_IQ platform enables the carmaker to address previously untapped market segments while preserving its established SUV identity.

Blueprint For Global Expansion

Explaining how NU_IQ is a blueprint for Mahindra's global expansion, R Velusamy, President - Automotive Business (Designate), Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and MD, Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd., said: "NU_IQ is a strategic blueprint for the future of Mahindra SUVs globally. With its modular, multi-energy architecture, it gives us the flexibility to innovate across multiple top hats and powertrains whilst staying true to our SUV DNA."

"The NU_IQ SUVs, designed at our Global Design studios in Mumbai and Banbury, represent the start of a new chapter of our HEARTCORE design philosophy. They build on the central tenet that great design should create an emotional bond between people and their vehicles while re-imagining it for a new future. 

"Based on the theme 'Opposites Attract', where the juxtaposition of contrasting elements creates an expressive new design language, these concepts promise to shape experiences that inspire adventure, confidence, and connection on any terrain, anywhere in the world," Pratap Bose, Chief Design & Creative Officer - Auto & Farm Sectors, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., said in a statement.

The NU_IQ platform strategy aligns with Mahindra's objective to make high-end SUV features accessible to larger consumer bases domestically while building competitive advantage in global luxury vehicle segments, particularly in left-hand drive regions where the company seeks expanded market share.

"NU_IQ blends innovation, global design and advanced technology to disrupt the white spaces in the automotive industry in India and internationally across Right-and-Left-Hand-Drive markets. The four concepts we are showcasing here offer a bold preview of what's to come. They usher in a new no-compromise era of mobility and give freedom a new meaning," Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO - Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. and Executive Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd., said.

Targeting Global Right and Left-Hand Drive Markets

The NU_IQ platform represents Mahindra's strategy to penetrate unexplored automotive market segments both domestically and internationally, including expansion into left-hand drive territories. This technological foundation enables the company to develop vehicles suited for diverse global markets while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through its modular approach.

Each vehicle demonstrates unique personality traits within the NU_IQ framework. The Vision.T and Vision.SXT embody a "Born Iconic" character, while the Vision.S showcases "Sporty Solidity" attributes. The Vision.X concept features "Sculptural Athleticism" design elements, illustrating the platform's versatility in accommodating diverse vehicle personalities, as per the company.

This design diversity reflects the collaborative work between Mahindra India Design Studio (MIDS) in Mumbai and Mahindra Advanced Design Europe (MADE) in Banbury, UK. The concepts demonstrate how the brand balances traditional design elements with contemporary innovation focused on future mobility needs.

Production Timeline

Engineering development for these concepts takes place at Mahindra Research Valley, with production scheduled to commence in 2027. This timeline positions Mahindra to deliver luxury-grade SUV experiences to broader market segments in India while simultaneously establishing a stronger presence in international premium SUV markets.