Finally, after what seemed like decades, the country’s largest utility vehicle manufacturer, Mahindra, has brought its much-awaited electric SUV, the BE.05, into reality. Recently, the first-ever test mule of this EV SUV was spotted undergoing testing at Mahindra Research Valley, located on the outskirts of Chennai, almost one year after its first showcasing in the United Kingdom. From its first sighting driving in the wild, the BE.05 SUV test vehicle appeared to be quite similar to the concept shown last year. However, closer scrutiny revealed slight differences. Currently, the exact launch date has not been revealed, but it will most likely hit the dealership floors by October 2025.
From the first spy pictures of the test mule spotted, it was noted that the exterior panels now boast a smoother styling with fewer angular lines, and the conventional wing mirrors have replaced the concept’s camera-based mirror system. The previously exaggerated flared wheel arches seem to have been dialed back, but the distinctive C-shaped LED daytime running lights on the aggressive front fascia remain unchanged from the concept. The window line also appears more conventional compared to the original concept design.
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The BE.05 SUV retains the concept’s peculiar four-door SUV-coupe style, giving it a distinguishing look. In terms of dimensions, the actual figures of the test mule have not been revealed, but the BE.05 concept measured 4,370mm in length, 1,900mm in width, 1,635mm in height, and had a 2,775mm wheelbase. The production version is planned to have a comparable footprint. Apart from this, it was noted that the concept’s eye-catching air duct has been replaced by a more traditional bonnet style, but it still looks very unique. The production version of the SUV will most likely also retain the flush door handles, but they will be positioned in a more traditional position as opposed to the top of the door panels.
In addition to the exterior spy shots of the test mule of the Mahindra BE.05 SEV SUV, the interior of the SUV was also recently revealed in a photo released by Mahindra CEO Rajesh Jejurikar. The monochrome graphic shows a simple, futuristic dashboard design with a central spine. It has a floating digital instrument cluster and thin horizontal air-conditioning vents. The CEO was seen sitting in the passenger seat of the forthcoming SUV.
Underpinning the BE.05 is Mahindra’s brand-new INGLO EV skateboard platform, which will serve as the foundation for several of their upcoming electric SUVs. Although specific powertrain details for the BE.05 have not been disclosed, it is known that the platform will employ a standardized battery pack design with Blade and Prismatic cell structures. The battery sizes will range from 60-80 kWh, capable of fast charging at up to 175 kW, enabling an 80 percent charge in less than 30 minutes, depending on the model. Mahindra estimates that the 80 kWh battery will deliver a driving range of approximately 435 km to 450 km under the WLTP cycle.
As for the motors, the electric SUVs based on this platform will offer both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, depending on the specific model. The Mahindra BE.05 SUV will occupy a position above the XUV400 EV in Mahindra’s lineup and is expected to be launched by October 2025. It will directly compete with the Tata Curvv EV, which is scheduled for release in 2024.
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