The Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e have been making waves online, showcasing impressive feats like drifting in viral videos, surpassing European competitors in top-speed tests, and excelling in crash evaluations to underscore their safety features. In fact, Mahindra wants you to pronounce BE 6e almost like 'be sexy'–bait for social media or not, the carmaker's affair with quirky names doesn't seem to have ended with the Thar Roxx. Developed from the ground up by the Indian automaker, these electric vehicles (EVs) represent bold entries into an increasingly competitive market.

Priced at ₹18.90 lakh for the BE 6e and ₹21.90 lakh for the XEV 9e, these models offer advanced features such as the XEV 9e’s expansive 43-inch triple-screen setup and the BE 6e’s cockpit-inspired interior, all while remaining competitively priced. Notably, the electric motor is the only aspect of Mahindra’s bold statements that isn't loud. But are they suitable for everyone? We took them for a brief drive at the Mahindra Research Valley near Chennai to find out. 

BE 6e

Prior to handing over the sleek keys, Mahindra provided a tour of their Research Valley, where these two electric SUV-coupes were developed and tested. A significant portion of Mahindra’s ₹4,500 crore investment appears to have been directed towards development, as much of the design closely aligns with the original concept sketches. The BE 6e’s radical design ensures it stands out on the road. Performance-wise, its 79kWh battery and electric motor deliver 380Nm of instantaneous torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds. In urban settings, the throttle response may feel somewhat abrupt, but switching to 'Everyday' or 'Range' drive modes smooths out the experience.

At Mahindra’s purpose-built test tracks, designed to assess handling, comfort, agility, and endurance, the BE 6e showcased its full potential. The immediate torque from the 79kWh motor enables a 0-100 km/h time of 6.7 seconds. Notably, it maintains confidence-inspiring stability even at speeds up to 202 km/h, with the driver seated in a low, airplane cockpit-inspired cabin. The interior features a curved, high-resolution display that seamlessly integrates the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, which includes an AI-driven personal assistant powered by Mahindra’s MAIA technology. While the setup is clean, being in its beta stage, it does exhibit occasional bugs and glitches. Additional advanced features comprise a 360-degree surround-view camera for enhanced parking and maneuvering, connected car capabilities, and Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with functions like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, collision avoidance, and automatic emergency braking. The vehicle also boasts a 'VisionX' head-up display (HUD) that projects critical driving information onto the windshield.

However, the BE 6e has its quirks. The door handle straps can be challenging to master, and the rear seat experience, with its knees-up seating position and somewhat claustrophobic feel, indicates that this isn't primarily a family car. It's an exciting, futuristic, and uncompromising vehicle.

XEV 9e

Positioned as the more refined option, the XEV 9e aims to offer a futuristic yet less radical package. Its design blends elements reminiscent of the Cybertruck and Tron, with a touch of Mahindra’s XUV lineage. While it may not attract as much attention as the BE 6e, it maintains a distinctive road presence. Inside, it boasts technological features that justify its price.

The 43-inch triple-screen setup takes center stage, integrating the driver’s display, infotainment system, and a passenger screen. This configuration offers augmented reality navigation, biometric authentication, and multi-zone entertainment controls. Smart climate control dynamically adjusts temperatures, enhancing cabin comfort, while features like a panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting add a luxurious touch. Equipped with Level 2+ ADAS, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, the XEV 9e doesn't compromise on safety.

On the track, the XEV 9e demonstrates confidence with impressive high-speed stability, prioritizing comfort over aggression. Compared to the assertive BE 6e, the XEV 9e adopts a more measured performance approach. Powered by a 79kWh battery pack, it produces 360Nm of torque, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 6.8 seconds. This makes it adequately quick for most drivers while maintaining a relaxed and composed driving demeanor. The suspension setup effectively absorbs road imperfections, making it suitable for long drives or daily commutes.

The rear seat experience stands out, offering better headroom, more generous legroom, and a well-cushioned bench, making it more inviting for passengers. Ingress and egress are significantly easier, enhancing its practicality for families.

While the BE 6e leans towards a more aggressive handling and ride profile, the XEV 9e is plush and well-behaved. Its comfortable rear seating, refined ride, spacious cabin, and advanced technology make it an appealing choice for families. 

Battery Details 

Both the Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e are equipped with advanced Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery packs, available in two configurations: a 59kWh pack and a larger 79kWh pack. Known for their thermal stability and durability, LFP batteries prioritize safety without compromising performance or range. 

59kWh Battery Pack: Offers a certified range of over 400 kilometers 

79kWh Battery Pack: Extends the range to an impressive 656 kilometers (MIDC-certified)

Both battery variants support 175kW DC fast charging, enabling a rapid 20-80% charge in just 20 minutes. Mahindra has also utilized "cell-to-pack" technology to maximize energy density, improve longevity, and optimize the vehicles' range and performance. The INGLO platform, on which both vehicles are built, seamlessly integrates these battery packs into the chassis, enhancing vehicle dynamics and interior space utilization. 

Verdict

When you’re doing 200kmph on a test track, or silly donuts or even watching the tyres scream as it takes sharp corners, it’s easy to forget about range anxiety, which has probably never been the case with EVs in India. And that perhaps is Mahindra’s biggest achievement with these radical products. Even though each product caters to a clearly defined target group uncompromisingly, they showcase Mahindra’s ambitions in the EV space. The aggressive pricing makes it really hard to not recommend them, based on first impressions. And we expect Mahindra's booking registers to be buzzing closer to the beginning of deliveries in the end of February 2025. We can’t wait to drive it for longer in the city limits for a more in-depth review. For now, it’s safe to say the future, thanks to electric cars, will be silent, but the Mahindra EVs have entered the space with the loudest bang.