Mahindra’s all-new electric SUV duo – the XEV.9e and BE.6 – has stirred significant excitement for several reasons. These models represent a bold new chapter for the brand as it steps fully into the EV space, built on the modular, born-electric INGLO platform and powered by domestically manufactured battery packs that have been rigorously tested for durability.
Both vehicles are based on the brand’s new INGLO platform, purpose-built for electric vehicles. Both come with the same battery pack options, namely a 59 kWh and a 79 kWh option, with the latter claiming to offer over 500 km of real world range. So just how does the aggressively styled and curiously named BE 6 fare in the real world?
The appeal
This seems to be the standard approach when it comes to Mahindra’s product-line: dazzle the customer with features rarely, if ever, found in the segment and then watch the orders come-in. Bamboozled by the extensive spec-sheet, the consumer seemingly has a clear choice. How that choice fares for the Mahindra customer in the longer run is another question, but on the surface of it, the BE6 has everything you need – rear-wheel drive agility, multi-link suspension, adaptive dampers and a more reliable BYD-sourced lithium-ion-phosphate battery.
The BE6 boldly leverages the space-saving advantages of the INGLO platform, adopting a race-inspired design with large 19-inch alloy wheels, pronounced flared charges and sleek sports car proportions. In many ways, it feels like a spiritual successor to the Jaguar I-Pace – if the I-Pace had gone on a crash diet. The BE 6 is built to grab attention. Its bold, muscular design and jet-inspired interior — featuring a fighter-jet-style joystick and a racecar-like rectangular steering wheel — give it a fun yet focused vibe. Think of it as a mini Urus with an electric twist. Larger than the Curvv SUV and wider than the Mahindra XUV700.
Interiors
Personally, the novelty of this jet-inspired cockpit fades quickly. The plastic materials are prone to scratches and fabric straps for inner door handles border on gimmicky. There is a clear, no-holds-barred approach to rope-in younger EV buyers, but the overall execution of the cabin leaves a bit to be desired. Still, it isn’t without its highlights. A massive 12.3-inch screen gives you laptop-like access to all the infotainment features and the same, sharply raked A-pillar and deeply-embedded dashboard that eat into the cabin space, give you a fantastic, driver-centric view. It’s also equipped with Level 2 ADAS and fast charging capabilities (provided you can find a 150 kW or above fast charger) .
The biggest highlight is of course, an aircraft-like drive selector and roof-mounted toggle switches. There are some strong Anime influences here and the BE 6 is designed to appeal as much to your imagination as it is to your logic. Performance
This is where the INGLO platform’s born-electric attributes shine through. The BE 6 feels like an exceptionally agile and smooth EV, with ballistic acceleration in constant supply, through a gentle dab of the throttle. The BE comes with three distinct driving modes, each tailored to different needs. Even in the efficiency-focused Range mode, the SUV doesn’t feel sluggish — it delivers enough punch to accelerate confidently and keep up with quick-moving traffic on the highway without breaking a sweat. There’s even a “Boost” mode that taps into the motor’s full power, propelling the BEV to 100kph in a sub-7 second time. Perfect for everyday overtaking maneuvers.
A low battery floor, rear-wheel drive layout, enhanced torsional rigidity - there’s little that the BE6 does not do well. It rides over potholes with remarkable suppleness. As far as first impressions go, the BE 6 hits all the right notes. Especially when it comes to regenerative braking, which is clearly the best in the segment. With 4 levels of intensity, and a “Boost” mode working through all of them - regen can feel as intuitive and unintrusive as you want it to. Verdict
As of February FY25, Mahindra claims to have sold 3196 units of the BE6 and the XEV 9E. So in that sense it has achieved its goal of breathing life into the ailing EV sector. The BE 6 proves that a significant part of the Indian market is hungry for radical innovation and open to radical design. It marks a tectonic shift in preferences for a market that has, historically, been so conservative in its tastes.
The issue lies only in consistency and durability – two of the biggest blind spots for Mahindra that dampen the consumer experience. Especially the first adopters. For its price though (starting Rs 18.90 lakh, ex-showroom) the Mahindra BE6 packs a wallop.
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