Mahindra ‘XUV400’ might get ADAS features for the first time in the entry-level EV segment
The upcoming EV from Mahindra could be named as XUV400 as against earlier assumptions that the trademarked name could be used for an altogether new IC car.
Just a few days back, the company informed that it will launch the electric version of its entry-level XUV300 by March, next year, and now speculations are on the rise online about what the upcoming SUV might sport to stand out from the crowd.
The ‘XUV400’ will be the UV manufacturer’s first venture into the electric space after not tasting success with the REVAi, e2o, and eVerito electric cars.
The upcoming EV will not be restricted to the current XUV300’s under-4-metre length but rather be longer at around 4.2 metres to accommodate the electric powertrain.
This setup is expected to offer huge space and features. Due to the addition of the electric powertrain, most probably, borrowed from Volkswagen, the SUV won’t come cheap. We expect nearly double the price of the current IC XUV300.
To make up for the price and to stand out from the crowd, Mahindra is expected to introduce ADAS features on the car for the first time in the entry-level EV segment which now has only 2 cars – Tata Tigor EV and Nexon EV.
The XUV700 already sports ADAS features and the upcoming Scorpio N features front and rear parking assistance system. So, it becomes imperative for Mahindra to go ahead with ADAS for a car that might cost over Rs. 20 lakhs (ex-showroom).
If Mahindra did offer ADAS features without breaking the price barrier, the upcoming XUV400 might be a interesting proposition against the Tata Nexon EV which is devoid of such options.
Recently, Mahindra signed a partnership with Volkswagen wherein it will start exploring the options of using Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electric Drive Matrix (MEB) platform and components for its upcoming electric cars.
As per the recent agreement, Mahindra intends to equip its Born Electric platform with MEB electric components such as electric motors, system components, and battery packs.
It must be seen whether Mahindra will adopt Volkswagen’s platform for the XUV400 or not. The car maker revealed that it aims to become the number 1 UV maker by 2025 and plans to launch as many as 13 SUVs in the next 5 years.
Of these, Mahindra said, 8 would be electric. And, of the 8 electric SUVs, 4 will be completely new models and their launch will take place between 2025 and 2027, the manufacturer said.
