Mahindra XEV 9e Crash Tested Internally; Expects 5-Star GNCAP/BNCAP Rating

Mahindra has set a significant milestone in car safety by conducting India’s first live electric vehicle (EV) crash test on its Electric Origin eSUV, the XEV 9e. In this, Mahindra showcased the vehicle’s structural strength and advanced safety features at its state-of-the-art Passive Safety Lab in Tamil Nadu, one of the largest OEM-owned facilities globally. Following these rigorous tests, Mahindra is optimistic about achieving a 5-star rating in both the Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP) and Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP).

R. Velusamy President - Automotive Technology & Product Development said, "The topic of safety is the closest to the heart of Mahindra, and we ensure that all our cars are the safest in the segment without any compromise. From our internal crash tests, we are confident to achieve 5 stars for both adult occupant protection and child occupant protection. Now, the cars are yet to be homologated, but we are sure that it will achieve the desired score."  

Mahindra emphasised the durability of its battery technology with three key tests. First was the nail penetration test, in which a live battery cell was subjected to a nail penetration to assess its resilience against physical damage. The test demonstrated that the battery could endure significant stress without leading to catastrophic failures. Second was the fire resistance test, in which the company exposed a fully charged battery to open flames, proving its ability to maintain structural stability and prevent explosions, even under extreme heat. 

Lastly, in the crush test, as part of a dramatic demonstration, a 22-tonne truck was driven over a live battery pack. Despite this severe physical abuse, the battery maintained its structural integrity, operational capability, and recharging function.

The XEV 9e underwent a frontal 40 per cent offset deformable barrier crash test at 64 kmph. During this evaluation, the airbags deployed precisely as designed, and the occupant cage remained intact. These results underscore the vehicle's robust structural integrity and advanced engineering aimed at enhancing passenger safety.