Testing a novel product by measuring its performance against the best in the industry before its launch has become a common practice among automobile manufacturers. Mahindra, a prominent player in this industry, has recently embraced this approach, making headlines for evaluating its upcoming all-electric SUV against the Tesla Model Y, one of the world’s highest-selling electric SUVs. There has been confirmation of this ongoing development as a Tesla Model Y unit was recently observed inside Mahindra’s manufacturing facility in Pune.
Mahindra’s Electric SUV Ambitions: Challenging the Tesla Model Y
It is well-known that Mahindra has been diligently working on a series of all-electric SUVs and crossovers under its newly-established electric vehicle brand, known as ‘BE’. These vehicles are being designed on a fresh ‘INGLO’ platform. One of the forthcoming SUVs is an all-electric SUV coupe, similar in size to the Tesla Model Y, and it is expected to make its debut on Indian roads by 2025. The presence of the Tesla Model Y, as noted by Carversal within Mahindra’s production facility, is believed to be part of Mahindra’s efforts to benchmark its electric SUV coupe against the Tesla offering.
Apart from its remarkable technical features, the Tesla Model Y is well-known for its outstanding drag coefficient of 0.23, ranking it among the most aerodynamic SUVs and crossovers worldwide. Mahindra might be engaging in a comprehensive assessment of its upcoming electric SUV-coupe’s drag coefficient and aerodynamics in comparison to the Tesla Model Y. Additionally, Mahindra could be appraising various aspects of the Model Y, including its performance, acceleration, and range, to guarantee that its forthcoming model aligns with global standards.
Tesla Model Y and India’s Electric Vehicle Prospects
The Tesla Model Y is a premium midsize electric SUV manufactured by an all-electric vehicle company based in the United States. With dimensions measuring 4750mm in length, 1978mm in width, and 1624mm in height, the Model Y is slightly larger than Mahindra’s current flagship SUV, the XUV700. It features an 81kWh battery pack and offers a maximum driving range of up to 525 km. Mahindra may be striving to achieve similar specifications and performance for its upcoming electric SUV.
In related news, Tesla is also contemplating a significant entry into the Indian car market and is exploring the feasibility of establishing a production facility in the country. Existing Tesla models like the Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X could potentially enter India through the CBU (completely built-up) route due to their premium positioning and limited availability. Additionally, Tesla is reportedly developing a more affordable electric vehicle for emerging markets, with India being a key focus among them.
