Mahindra marked a milestone in automotive safety by conducting India’s first live electric vehicle (EV) crash test on its Electric Origin SUV, the XEV 9e. This test, conducted at the Mahindra SUV Performance Test Track (MSPT) in Cheyyar, Tamil Nadu, underscored the company’s commitment to setting new safety benchmarks.
As one of the largest OEM-owned facilities globally, MSPT provided the stage for a series of rigorous demonstrations highlighting the robust safety, durability, and performance of Mahindra’s Electric Origin vehicles – BE 6e and XEV 9e.
Live Crash Test Validates Robust Construction
The XEV 9e underwent a frontal 40% offset deformable barrier crash test at 64 kmph, more than the stipulated speed for these tests. The results were significant: the airbags deployed as expected, and the occupant cage remained intact, showcasing the vehicle’s structural integrity and advanced safety features. This live demonstration established Mahindra as the first Indian OEM to conduct such a test, reinforcing its dedication to global safety standards.
Battery Resilience Tested Under Extreme Conditions
The OEM showcased the resilience of its battery technology through a series of rigorous tests:
Nail Penetration Test: A live battery cell was punctured with a nail, proving its ability to withstand physical damage without catastrophic failure.
Fire Resistance Test: A fully charged battery pack was exposed to open flames, demonstrating its structural stability and resistance to fire or explosions under extreme temperatures.
Crush Test: In a striking demonstration, a 22-tonne truck was driven over a live battery pack, which withstood the immense load while maintaining its structural integrity, charging capability, and electrical function. In a fitting response, the BE 6e showcased its remarkable pulling power by effortlessly towing the same 22-tonne truck away, proving its robust engineering and performance.
Performance Benchmarks Validated Through Professional Driving Assessments
As part of Mahindra's comprehensive safety and performance evaluation of its Electric Origin SUVs, the XEV 9e and BE 6e underwent professional driving assessments, reinforcing their credentials. Conducted by experts from IDIADA, these evaluations focused on four principal dynamic attributes: Ease of Use, Confidence, Fun to Drive, and Ride Comfort.
Both vehicles demonstrated their engineering excellence by delivering competitive scores across all parameters. For ‘Ease of Use’ and ‘Fun to Drive’, the BE 6e and XEV 9e achieved a score of 7.7 out of 10, outperforming global competitors who scored between seven and 7.5.
In the ‘Confidence’ category, the BE 6e scored 7.7 while the XEV 9e followed closely with 7.5, aligning with or surpassing competitors who ranged between 7.5 and 7.7.
For ‘Ride Comfort,’ both models again outshone many of their global counterparts, with the BE 6e scoring 7.7 and the XEV 9e achieving 7.5, while competitors ranged from 7 to 7.5. According to IDIADA representatives, the overall ratings placed the BE 6e and XEV 9e at 7.75, higher than three of their global peers, who scored between 7 and 7.5, with only one competitor matching the top score of 7.7.
These results underscore the performance consistency and engineering refinement of Mahindra’s Electric Origin SUVs, showcasing their ability to meet and exceed global standards.
High-Speed Test: Conducted by neutral agency IDIADA, the BE 6e clocked 202 kmph, outperforming a major global competitor’s 183 kmph. The Electric Origin vehicles maintained resilience and consistency during high-speed testing.
Slalom Test: Despite sharp manoeuvres during this agility test, the vehicles remained stable, showcasing their precise handling capabilities.
Semi-Active Suspension Demonstration: Mahindra’s INGLO platform features a semi-active suspension system that adjusts damping force within 15 milliseconds to tackle varying terrains. To showcase this, a 'Great Indian Wine Testing' demonstration involved a pyramid of water-filled glasses placed on the car's bonnet as it traversed simulated bumpy roads. The water remained un-spilled, proving the system’s effectiveness.
Auto Park Assist: Demonstrations highlighted the practicality of this feature, which allows drivers to step out of the vehicle and command it to park autonomously via a fob—an invaluable aid for navigating tight Indian parking spaces.
Elevating Standard For E-Mobility
The XEV 9e and BE 6e represent Mahindra’s vision of safe, sustainable, and innovative mobility. Today’s demonstrations reinforced the vehicles’ capabilities, from their groundbreaking safety features to advanced performance systems. With resilience tested in real-world scenarios and cutting-edge technology like semi-active suspension and auto park assist, these vehicles aim to satiate customer expectations in the EV segment.
From the robustness of its battery systems to the thrill of high-speed drifting by professional rally driver Gaurav Gill, Mahindra's event highlighted its focus on both safety and performance. These vehicles, powered by the INGLO platform, deliver enhanced safety, performance, and comfort, cementing the automaker’s strong presence in India’s electric mobility landscape.
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