Mahindra is developing the XUV700 electric variant, which will be sold as the XUV.e8. Several new details have been made public by design patents ahead of its arrival later this year. The most recent confirmation is for a first-in-segment feature a three-screen arrangement.
Three-screen configuration for Mahindra XUV700 Electric:
The Indian auto industry is moving toward a three-screen configuration, which will eventually replace the one that now exists. Mahindra will be the first to release XUV.e8, the feature, in the mass market segment. It’s expected that other upcoming Mahindra SUVs, including the XUV.e9 and BE series, would also have three screens.
Other OEMs are also expected to switch from the existing two-screen configuration to a three-screen one once a favorable market response is confirmed. As demonstrated by vehicles such as the Mercedes EQS 580, Cadillac Celestiq, Lucid Air, Audi A8, Porsche Taycan, etc., there are likely to be variations.
It would seem reasonable to switch to a three-screen configuration because it greatly improves the cockpit experience. The three screens of the XUV.e8 arrangement occupy nearly the whole width of the dashboard, as demonstrated by the patent image. AC vents are located on either side of it.
The three-screen arrangement looks to have bezels between the screens based on the image from the design patent. The bezels appear to be grey in color and are somewhat broad. The production model could provide a glossier and darker finish. The huge three-screen arrangement may have been sufficiently protected by the selection of the heavy bezels.
Relevance to function:
The cockpit area becomes smaller with a three-screen arrangement. It is in line with the current trend of EVs having a minimalistic appearance and interior design. A three-screen arrangement allows for the elimination of many of the physical buttons. The front passenger alone has access to the third screen. When the majority of the controls are operated through screens, the overall impression of space is greatly increased. Users can use voice commands in addition to touch controls for a number of features and activities.
New steering wheel and headlamp configuration for XUV.e8:
Mahindra has also received patents for a revised two-spoke steering wheel and new headlamp design for the XUV.e8. Clearly distinguishing the ICE model will be made possible with the help of these additional characteristics. With XUV.e9, these recently patented functionalities will probably also be available. The coupe version of XUV.e8 is called XUV.e9.
Based on the INGLO platform, all future Mahindra electric SUVs will be produced. Up to an 80 kWh battery pack will be available for XUV.e8. A power output of between 230 and 350 horsepower is possible. There will be an all-wheel drive version of the XUV.e8 available. Later this year is expected for launch. Early in 2025, the Tata Harrier EV is expected to compete with the XUV.e8.
