In a significant development, Mahindra & Mahindra and the Volkswagen Group have affirmed their joint venture aimed at sharing electric vehicle (EV) components for their upcoming models. The indigenous automaker confirmed the news during a stock exchange filing. Under this partnership, which was initially outlined in a term sheet back in 2022, Mahindra’s upcoming INGLO platform-based electric SUVs will feature components from Volkswagen’s MEB architecture and unified cells. It’s worth noting that Volkswagen’s MEB platform currently underpins multiple global models from Audi, Skoda, Ford, and SEAT/CUPRA.
On the other hand, the German automaker will utilize this technology for 80 percent of its battery cells, resulting in a 50 percent reduction in costs. Both automakers are also open to exploring local manufacturing options, although definitive plans on this front are yet to materialize. The EV component supply deal is set to span several years, projecting a cumulative volume of approximately 50GWh over its duration. Besides exchanging EV components, Mahindra and Volkswagen are delving into broader collaborative avenues, including potential platform-sharing ventures extending beyond the Indian market.
Mahindra’s first INGLO platform-based EV will enter series production from December 2024 onwards. It will be based on the Mahindra XUV.e8 concept unveiled in August of last year. Essentially, it will be an electric version of the XUV700 featuring EV-specific elements inside and out. Powertrain specifications of the electric SUV are still under wraps, though it’s likely to come with a battery pack ranging between 60-80kWh, delivering a range of around 400km – 450km. The setup might deliver power close to 230bhp – 350bhp.
The Mahindra XUV.e8 will soon be followed by the XUV.e9 electric coupe SUV, currently in its testing phase. The model is likely to be packed with some advanced features such as Level 2 ADAS tech, V2L (vehicle-to-load) functionality, and a HUD (Head-Up Display) with augmented navigation.
