A Mahindra XUV 700 owner recently shared a concerning image on Reddit that has sparked outrage among car enthusiasts and consumers alike. The photo shows the vehicle’s infotainment system displaying an advertisement for an Amazon Echo Dot, with the slogan “Alexa, give me a cleaner tip.” This unexpected intrusion into a premium vehicle that costs upwards of 20 lakhs has left many questioning the direction of in-car technology.
Consumer Backlash Grows
The Reddit thread where this image appeared quickly filled with indignant comments from users.
One commenter urged, “Write this to Mahindra; this is unacceptable. We should stop this at this level before it will be too late.”
Others suggested taking legal action, with one user advising, “Consumer court me case thok do. Car ka value vapis milega!!” (File a case in consumer court. You’ll get the car’s value back!).
The sentiment was summed up by another user who noted, “These are the things why I would pay extra to not have a ‘futuristic’ car interior.” Perhaps most concerning was the satirical but pointed comment:
“Brakes will be available after a 30 sec ad 🫡” – highlighting fears about where this trend could lead.
Hidden Settings Reveal Mahindra’s Plans
Previous reporting has indicated that Mahindra may have been planning this feature for some time. According to information shared in Mahindra XUV 700 owners’ groups, the vehicle’s Connected App settings contain an option related to advertisements. While owners can apparently disable these ads, the very presence of such functionality suggests Mahindra intended to monetize the infotainment system from the start.
Premium Price, Budget Experience?
The XUV 700 is positioned as a premium offering in its segment, loaded with features like a dual-screen layout, Level 2 ADAS, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. With prices starting well above 20 lakhs, owners rightfully expect an uncompromised experience. The introduction of advertisements feels particularly jarring in this context – imagine spending a significant sum on a luxury product only to be subjected to the same ads you’d expect on a budget smartphone.
Setting a Dangerous Precedent
If this practice becomes normalized, it could spread throughout the automotive industry. Manufacturers might begin to view in-car displays as yet another advertising platform, similar to how smart TVs evolved from premium viewing devices to advertising delivery systems. The car, once a private sanctuary, risks becoming another space where consumers cannot escape commercial messaging.
The Path Forward
Car buyers concerned about this trend should voice their opinions directly to manufacturers and consider supporting brands that commit to ad-free experiences. Consumer advocacy groups might need to establish new standards for in-car software, ensuring that buyers maintain control over their vehicle interfaces.
