Mahindra BE 6e vs XEV 9e: An In-depth Comparison Of Mahindra’s New EVs

The new Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e are expected to be a point of departure for the Indian carmaker as these electric vehicles (EVs) use a modern EV-only platform, high-tech features, unique exterior and interior, and promising range as well as performance. Both electric SUVs have been revealed with the same powertrain specifications and very similar starting prices, yet, they are very different packages. So, what exactly sets them apart? We find that out in this article.

Mahindra BE 6e vs XEV 9e: Design & Dimensions

In terms of dimensions, the BE 6e measures 4,371 mm in length, 1,907 mm in width, and 1,627 mm in height. In contrast, the XEV 9e is 4,789 mm long, 1,907 mm wide, and 1,694 mm tall. While the XEV 9e is considerably longer and marginally taller than the BE 6e, they have an identical width and wheelbase, which stands at 2,775 mm.

Be it design or dimensions, the Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e are poles apart. However, they both retain some design cues from their corresponding concept version showcased a couple of years ago. 

To start with, the BE 6e has a clean-sheet design, featuring edgy panels with sharp creases, bold front and rear ends, an integrated air inlet on the bonnet, a slating roofline, chunky wheel arches, C-shaped front and rear lights, and aero-optimised optional 20-inch alloy wheels. On the other hand, the XEV 9e gets a distinct design, featuring a toned-down look with smoother body panels. Plus, it has a more prominent slanting roofline, eye-catching DRLs, chunky wheel arches, and continuous taillight strip at the back.

All in all, the BE 6e still looks like a concept car with its spaceship-style features, while the XEV 9e has a comparably conventional styling, which looks a thorough facelifted version of the XUV 700 (if it was an SUV coupe).

However, what is common between the both is the INGLO platform, which is a dedicated and flexible EV architecture. Thanks to its flat-floor, the BE 6e and XEV 9e provide more cabin space, frunk (front trunk), and lower centre of gravity compared to the EVs based on a modified platform that usually powers ICE vehicles.

Mahindra BE 6e vs XEV 9e: Interior

Inside, the BE 6e features a unique and outlandish cabin layout with a dual-tone theme and a fightjet cockpit-like space for the driver. It gets a dual screen setup, comprising a driver’s display and an infotainment system, plus there is a quirky element that adjoins the dashboard and central armrest. That is not all, it also sports fabric door pulls like the 911 GT3 RS, aircraft-inspired switches on roof, quirky rear air-con vents (front and rear), and seat adjustment buttons attached to the seats. Not only that, the BE 6e also has a steering wheel that is flat at top and bottom, capacitive touch controls, and an aircraft-style gear selector.

In comparison, the XEV 9e gets a three screen setup, which includes a driver’s display, an infotainment touchscreen, and a co-driver screen (an additional display over the BE 6e). Moreover, it gets a flat-bottomed steering wheel, a small gear selector, a storage box with one-click opening (reminiscent of some Mercedes-Benz models), conventional physical controls, and powered seat controls on door panels instead of seats. Overall, the XEV has a more contemporary layout that also somewhat resembles the XUV 700, unlike the Be 6e’s modern cabin.

Mahindra BE 6e vs XEV 9e: Features

The Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e boast some common features, such as a heads-up display with augmented reality, programmable LED ambient lighting, a glass roof; 16-speaker, 1400 Watt Harman Kardon sound system; multi-zone climate control, a selfie camera, ventilated and powered seats, and autopark.

When it comes to safety, both electric SUVs are equally outfitted with Level 2+ ADAS (including surveillance function that uses vehicles’ cameras), a 360-degree camera, 7 airbags, and driver and occupant monitoring system. We have given a list of features available at launch on both EVs, while the full list of features of BE 6e and XEV 9e has yet to be announced.

Mahindra BE 6e vs XEV 9e: Powertrain

The BE 6e and XEV 9e share the same battery pack options, electric motor, and charging capability. While the INGLO platform supports both single-motor and dual-motor setups, Mahindra has unveiled only the rear-wheel drive versions of the electric SUVs. They come powered by 59kWh and 79kWh units, which use LFP (Lithium Ion Phosphate) battery technology.

The electric SUVs also come with semi-active suspension, often available with the high-end luxury car, and three driving modes (Range, Everyday, and Race).

The BE 6e with its 59 kWh and 79 kWh battery packs, delivers a range of 535 km and 682 km (as per MIDC Phase 1+2), respectively. On the other hand, the XEV 9e provides a range of 542 km and 656 km (as per MIDC Phase 1+2) with the 59 kWh and 79 kWh units, respectively. 

While the range figures are different, the BE 6e and XEV 9e have the same charging speeds across compatible chargers. The 79kWh and 59 kWh battery packs can be charged from 20 to 80 percent in 20 minutes when using a 175kW DC charger and 140kW DC charger, respectively.

Mahindra BE 6e vs XEV 9e: Price & Rivals

The Mahindra BE 6e has been priced from Rs 18.90 lakh (ex-showroom) and takes on the MG ZS EV, Tata Curvv EV, BYD Atto 3, and the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV. Whereas, the prices of the Mahindra XEV 9e start at Rs 21.90 lakh (ex-showroom). Currently, the XEV 9e does not have any direct rivals in India.