Mahindra XUV 9e And BE 6 Hybrid In The Works

Mahindra & Mahindra is reportedly working on thoroughly re-engineering the INGLO platform on the XEV 9e and BE 6 to make it compatible for hybrid powertrains. This change in strategy comes amidst the Government of India’s recent push for aggressive hybrid adoption via road tax exemptions, which will be on par with EVs in some states. 

(Also Read: New Mahindra Bolero Neo Spotted Again Ahead of August 15 Debut; Could Receive ADAS)

As per reports, Mahindra is planning to use the 1.2-litre petrol engine as a range extender. Wherein the naturally aspirated mill will power the battery of the SUVs which in turn will power the electric motors to drive the wheels. The INGLO Platform will require both technical and design changes to accommodate the ICE engine. This is not a novel technology though and the same has been in application in several cars overseas like the BMW i3 Range Extender and the Chevrolet Volt. 

Additionally, Mahindra is also working on hybridising its subcompact SUV, the XUV 3XO. However, it will not use range extender setup, instead, it will be used as a series-parallel hybrid system.  Wherein the 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol engine will be paired to a strong hybrid system. Both will work in tandem with each other and the setup will automatically decide whether to use the ICE or stay in EV mode. This will help leverage higher efficiency figures.

(Also Read: Will Mahindra XEV 9e, BE 6 Get New Variants?)

Mahindra is not the only manufacturer considering range-extender hybrid powertrains. Even Maruti Suzuki is developing an in-house and affordable range-extender for its models like the Fronx, Baleno and Swift. Manufacturers like Hyundai, Volkswagen, and even JSW MG Motor are planning to bring hybrid models to the country. And if you’re in case wondering how the Mahindra BE 6 electric SUV drives, check out our first drive review below:

(Source: Autocar Professional)