Mahindra has just launched its Mahindra BE 6 electric warrior in India and it is already kicking up dust with its combination of bold design, technological excesses and promising numbers. But as they say - the real revolution is hiding under the sheet metal. What exactly does this Indian electrical wonder offer? Let's take a closer look.
If you thought Indian cars were all about practicality, get ready for a surprise. The Mahindra BE 6 looks like a vehicle I'd be happy to drive Bruce Wayne on holiday in Goa. With its floating front spoiler, sporty sloping roofline and short overhangs, it's designed for the future, not the parking lot outside the local supermarket. The C-shape LED headlights and taillights ensure that you always stand out from the crowd, even though you're as quiet as a ninja - thanks to the electric drive.
And yes, the logo on the nose lights up. Because why not?
Space? There is plenty of that!
It's under this futuristic armor BE 6 also extremely practical. The 455-litre boot (or 16.1 cubic feet, if you prefer) will swallow your weekly shopping, while additional 45 liters of front trunk – or “frunka” – comes in handy for storing cables or yoga shoes. Why doesn't Volkswagen know this? With 207 mm (8.15 inches) of ground clearance, you'll also conquer Indian monsoon-swept roads with aplomb.
Interior: Digital Temple
Interior Mahindra BE6 is a combination of minimalism and technological luxury. There are two digital screens – one for the instrument panel and the other for infotainment – and a floating HUD (head-up display). In order not to be left without the right atmosphere, there is also a 16-speaker Harman Kardon a system that ensures that your afternoon "roadtrips" will have the right soundscape.
A real treat? A panoramic glass roof that seems endless. It may be an electric SUV, but it feels like a luxury lounge bar.
Level 2+ security
Seven airbags, a full range of active safety systems and an advanced ADAS system (Level 2+) ensure that you will be safe both in the city and on the highway. The BE 6 is therefore smart, fast and safe - qualities that we also look for in ideal partners.
Battery and performance
Beneath the futuristic design is the heart of the electric monster – a choice of two batteries, the larger of which s capacity of 79 kWh it provides an astonishing range of 656 km (408 miles) according to the ARAI standard. This means you can drive from Mumbai to Goa stress-free on a single charge. In addition, the BE 6 is also fast in charging – from 20 % to 80 % in just 20 minutes.
Capacity: An electric motor with 282 hp (208 kW) and 380 Nm of torque drives the rear wheels, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in enviable ones 6.7 seconds. That's fast enough to beat most cars at a traffic light.
Legally named drama? Yes, that too!
Mahindra originally named its model BE 6e, but the airline IndiGo was not impressed, as their call sign "6E" is considered too similar. To avoid legal delays, Mahindra changed the name to a simpler one BE 6 – but that doesn't mean they won't still fight for the original name in the courtroom. Very similar to Alfa Romeo and the Junior model.
Conclusion: Indian Electrical Ace
The Mahindra BE 6 combines bold design, high technology and enviable numbers, all for a price 18.90 lakhs (approx. €21,000 or 23,000 $). Although the first deliveries will not be until February 2025, the BE 6 already looks like one of the most interesting electric SUVs on the market.
With its combination of practicality, performance and futuristic design, it proves that Mahindra is seriously targeting the global electric mobility stage. If the BE 6 turns out to be as good as it promises, we'll be hearing a lot more about it.
Get ready, world – the electric future is coming from India.
