Production-Spec Mahindra BE.05 Spied Ahead Of Debut In Early 2025

Mahindra’s upcoming electric SUV, the BE.05, is reportedly close to being production-ready, with exclusive spy shots confirming that the vehicle is set to begin manufacturing at the company’s Chakan plant by the end of 2024. Media reports indicate that Mahindra is targeting a January 2025 launch for the highly anticipated BE.05, the first model in its "Born Electric" (BE) range of electric vehicles (EVs).

The BE.05, measures 4,370 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, 1,635 mm in height, and boasts a 2,775 mm wheelbase. The design, led by Mahindra’s Chief Design Officer Pratap Bose, is strikingly futuristic, with sharp angles, C-shaped lights, scoops, and ducts. These design elements, combined with large wheels and a high stance, contribute to a bold road presence that Mahindra hopes will attract buyers looking for an SUV that stands out.

A notable trend in the BE.05's styling is the use of piano black finishes across various exterior components, including the grille, headlight surrounds, mirror caps, and side panels. While this glossy, deep black treatment adds a premium aesthetic, it may also be prone to wear and tear over time, especially in harsher environments.

The interior of the BE.05 retains much of the radical design seen in its concept version. The flat dashboard sits low under the windscreen, suggesting good forward visibility, although the sharply angled rear window may limit rearward visibility. Central to the dashboard is a twin-screen setup, likely equipped with cutting-edge technology and features, making it a standout in the segment.

One of the unique features inside the BE.05 is the “halo,” a floating wraparound design element extending from the dashboard to the centre console. This design, along with the sharply angled silhouette, creates a driver-centric environment that Mahindra seems to be aiming at enthusiasts, rather than families.

Mahindra’s BE.05 will be available in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, offering versatility in performance. At launch, the SUV will feature a Valeo motor driving the rear wheels, rated at 228 bhp and 380 Nm of torque. This rear-wheel-drive layout promises improved traction and balance compared to the front-wheel-drive layout of the XUV400, which faced issues with front wheelspin.

Mahindra has also been in discussions with Volkswagen to potentially use its powerful APP 550 motor in future versions of the BE.05. This motor produces 282 bhp and 535 Nm of torque, though it remains unclear if this option will be available at launch or later.

The BE.05 will be offered with two battery options: a 60 kWh pack and a larger 79 kWh pack. The larger battery is expected to provide a range of approximately 450 km under the WLTP cycle. The BE.05’s platform, dubbed INGLO, supports ultra-fast charging. Using a fast DC charger with an output of at least 175 kW, the 79 kWh battery can charge from 20 to 80 per cent in just 20 minutes. 

Image Source: Autocar India