Mahindra Automotive, the nation’s largest SUV manufacturer, is also getting ready for the debut of its new XUV.e8, joining the electric car bandwagon. Recently, a new test mule for the already-popular XUV700 SUV was spotted driving about. This new model is the electrified version of the SUV. This time around, the new test mule has provided some additional information about this forthcoming electric SUV.
A Mahindra XUV.e8 mule is seen stopped alongside a major road in the images. This mule’s precise sighting location has not been made public. The vehicle’s appearance is depicted in two images from the front and back. There are also two images that display the XUV.e8’s updated interior.
The exterior of Mahindra XUV.e8
First, the most important finding from this fresh batch of images including the test mule for the XUV.e8. The next Mahindra XUV.e8 EV SUV will have linked LED DRLs on the front, according to the front spy photo. Additionally, it will receive a brand-new headlamp housing that will house new LED headlights that are stacked vertically. It will probably also replace the conventional front grille with a closed-off grille because electric vehicles don’t need a cooling system upfront. From the front, the new XUV.e8 differs significantly from the outgoing ICE XUV700.
Not much has changed on the side profile, save from the front. The side profile is not visible in this latest series of spy photos, but a previous pair of spy photos revealed that the addition of a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels was the sole change to the side profile. These new wheels were also shown to be camouflaged, much like the body. The forthcoming XUV.e8 used the same overall silhouette, doors, and fenders as the XUV700 ICE model. The back will also have the same design as the outgoing model, in keeping with the same theme.
The interior of Mahindra XUV.e8
Regarding the XUV.e8’s interior, the most recent spy photos provide some fresh information. The fact that the new EV SUV’s cabin will have three screens is the first notable feature. The primary infotainment screen will be in the centre, and there will be a digital instrument gauge cluster in front of the driver. Finally, the screen in front of the front passenger will be bigger. Thus far, the new Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan and new E-Class have demonstrated a comparable configuration.
In addition, a different image of the inside showed that the EV SUV will have a conventional gear lever located on the centre console. Additionally, it will have a rotary dial next to the gear lever, which is probably going to be useful for choosing the driving mode. Not to mention, there’s another infotainment screen rotary dial that looks exactly like the one on the XUV700. The addition of a two-spoke steering wheel, which is available on the new Tata Safari, Harrier, and Nexon models, is yet another one of the interior’s standout features.
Mahindra XUV.e8: The powerhorse
Regarding the drivetrain, Mahindra Automotive has stated that an 80 kWh battery pack and an all-wheel-drive system with two motors will be standard on the next XUV.e8. According to reports, this configuration may produce up to 230 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque. The Tata Harrier.EV will be rivalled by the XUV.e8, the first all-electric car from the XUV.e platform, which is anticipated to go on sale by late 2024.
