Top 10 Tech Features of the “Electric Origin” Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e

Mahindra’s two new SUVs, the BE 6e and XEV 9e, both make bold statements about the company’s ambitions. In addition to their assertively modern styling and ambitious performance, they are absolutely packed with tech. It starts with the new INGLO platform and battery system, architected for safety and performance, which both cars are built on. Then there’s a powerful onboard computer with AI capabilities, a surprisingly capable entertainment system, and of course plenty of convenience features for the driver and passengers. Here are our favourite tech touches:

1. Battery safety and fast charging

Mahindra’s INGLO EV platform will be the basis for multiple new vehicles over the next few years. The “skateboard” design with a large, flat battery reduces these cars’ centre of gravity allowing for roomier cabins and better handling. Buyers will have a choice between 59kWh and 79kWh batteries, and Mahindra showed off how it tests these batteries for resilience against shock, fire, liquids and even punctures.

Range for the larger battery is said to be 500+ km in urban areas with the AC on. Even better, Mahindra claims that this car can charge more quickly than some smartphones – it is said to go from 20 percent to 80 percent in just 20 minutes, using a 175 kWh DC fast charger. 

2. MAIA - Mahindra AI Architecture

AI is the biggest buzzword of 2024 and it’s no surprise that Mahindra wants its most tech-forward cars to offer AI-enabled features. We’ll know more about the capabilities of the new MAIA (Mahindra AI Architecture) stack closer to the BE 6e and XEV 9e’s launch, but the company promises personalisation, interactivity, and safety features. This will all tie in to the car’s ADAS and connectivity features. We’re hoping to see lots of local-language optimisations, and experiences tailored to Indian users and road conditions. 

3. Futuristic Cockpits 

The first thing you’ll see when you step into these cars is their giant panoramic display panels – three 12.3-inch screens in the XEV 9e and two in the BE 6e. The driver gets a fully digital instrument cluster while the centre console has all the controls you’d expect, such as air conditioning and vehicle settings. You can also run loads of apps, and there’s support for Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto. The XEV 9e’s third screen is for front passenger entertainment. You can stay occupied by playing local content or streaming through various apps. You can also play games, join video conferences, and use other apps and services on the go.

4. Qualcomm Snapdragon hardware

All of this is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon Cockpit onboard computer, running the Qualcomm SD8295 SoC with 24GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The platform can be updated over-the-air for ongoing feature improvements and security patches. You get a pretty powerful NPU (Neural Processing Unit) for AI acceleration as well as a GPU that can render 3D graphics across multiple screens. Of course there’s also 5G and Wi-Fi for all your connectivity needs.  

5. Sonic Studio Experience with Dolby Atmos

Mahindra has worked with Harman Kardon and Dolby, plus multiple industry experts, to develop its new Sonic Studio Experience sound system. Both cars have 16 speakers and can push 1400W. VenueScapes lets you choose different audio ambience profiles. We got to spend some time in the car and experienced Dolby Atmos spatial effects, such as a bird chirping as it flies across the car. You’ll need a Gaana Premium account to take advantage of this for now.

6. Level 2+ ADAS

In addition to their onboard computers, the BE 6e and XEV 9e are also equipped with ultrasonic sensors, radar, and cameras. You get some neat assisted-driving features including lane keep assist and automatic emergency braking. The interior camera can monitor each car’s driver for attentiveness and display warnings if it detects drowsiness or distraction. But by far the coolest feature is automatic parking – just position your car near an open spot and it will manoeuvre itself into place, whether you’re parallel, at an angle, or alongside the space. 

7. Heads-up display

While not exactly unique at this price level, the HUD is pretty handy. It projects useful information right into the driver’s field of view without distractions. You can see your speed, GPS instructions with augmented reality direction overlays, and even the media that’s currently playing. 

8. Secure360

Mahindra’s app for BE 6e and XEV 9e owners lets them track their car, check in on what its cameras can see, and control some features remotely. You can get a live feed and save recordings, which will give owners peace of mind and could be helpful in a variety of situations. Now, no matter where your car is or who is driving it, you’ll be able to see what’s going on.

9. All the basics

In addition to these ultra-modern tech features, the BE 6e and XEV 9e have all the basics covered. There’s a wireless charging pad for phones at the front of each car, and a USB Type-C port for each passenger. The XEV 9e has ports labeled 65W at the rear which should be good enough to charge most mainstream laptops. CarPlay and Android Auto will keep you synchronised on the go and minimise distractions. There’s even Alexa for voice control. And yes, you can use that interior camera to take selfies with!

10. GrooveMe party mode

This one is purely for amusement, but it’s unquestionably unique and will grab attention wherever you use it. The GrooveMe app turns your entire car into a discotheque, with all its interior and exterior LEDs flashing along in time to whatever music you’re playing (or any sound you’re making). That includes the light-up glass roof, accents all around the front console, and even the Mahindra logo on the rear.