Mahindra & Mahindra is gearing up to expand its presence in the Middle Eastern electric vehicle (EV) market with a range of new SUVs designed to cater to the region’s growing appetite for clean mobility. With multiple electric models in the pipeline, including the XUV 3XO EV, XUV 7e, BE 6e, and XEV 9e, Mahindra is making a determined push into the Gulf’s competitive EV segment.
Two New SUVs for the Middle East
Later this year, Mahindra will introduce the XUV 3XO EV and XUV 7e to the Middle Eastern market. These models are aimed at strengthening the company’s presence in the region’s electric SUV segment, which has seen significant growth in demand over the past few years.
The XUV 3XO EV will serve as a compact alternative in the entry-level EV space, going head-to-head with competitors like the Tata Nexon EV. Spy shots suggest that it retains much of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart’s design, featuring a closed-off grille, minor front-end tweaks, and a charging port positioned at the front. It is expected to come equipped with LED daytime running lights (DRLs), bi-LED projector headlamps, and a full-width rear LED light bar.
Inside, the XUV 3XO EV will likely share many features with its conventional counterpart. High-end trims could offer a 360-degree camera, Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, and premium features such as leatherette upholstery, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. Battery specifications remain undisclosed, but Mahindra is expected to use the battery packs from the XUV400, offering 375 km and 456 km range options.
The XUV 7e, on the other hand, is positioned as a larger, premium SUV with a more spacious interior and additional performance upgrades. It will likely feature an extended range, larger battery capacity, and more advanced technological integrations to compete with other mid-size electric SUVs in the region.
Mahindra’s BE and XEV Lineup
Mahindra is also set to introduce models from its Born Electric (BE) and XEV lineup, with the BE 6e and XEV 9e making headlines as the brand’s latest fully electric SUVs.
The BE 6e is a bold step forward for Mahindra, offering a 79kWh battery with an ARAI-certified range of 682 km. It boasts a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 6.7 seconds, powered by a motor producing 281 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. The BE 6e is expected to arrive at a competitive starting price of INR 18.90 lakh (AED 8,500), with high-end trims reaching up to INR 25 lakh (AED 11,500).
Meanwhile, the XEV 9e presents itself as a more spacious coupe-SUV alternative, featuring the same 79kWh battery pack but with a maximum range of 656 km. The entry-level model will use a 59kWh battery with a range of 542 km. This model is designed for those seeking additional cabin and luggage space, with pricing expected to start at INR 21.90 lakh (AED 10,000).
The XEV 7e, a three-row SUV variant of the XEV 9e, is also on the horizon, set for release later this year. Mahindra’s upcoming XUV 3XO EV, positioned as an electric adaptation of the XUV 300, is also expected to debut by mid-2025, priced competitively at INR 15 lakh-20 lakh (AED 6,900 – AED 9,300).
The Mahindra BE 6e.
Performance and Features
Mahindra’s new models are set to introduce a host of new features catering to both performance and luxury. Some key highlights include:
- Superfast Charging: The BE 6e and XEV 9e will support DC fast charging, allowing a 20-80% charge in just 20 minutes.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): The latest safety tech, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and driver drowsiness detection.
- Luxury Interiors: Features like an augmented reality head-up display (ARHUD), dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon 16-speaker system with Dolby Atmos will be available in high-end models.
- Smart Connectivity: Vehicles will feature the Qualcomm 8295 Snapdragon chipset with extensive RAM and storage for seamless infotainment experiences.
Why the Middle East?
Mahindra’s expansion into the UAE and Saudi Arabia aligns with the region’s rising demand for electric vehicles. With infrastructure development in full swing—thanks to government-backed initiatives and a growing network of charging stations—consumer interest in EVs has soared.
The SUV-dominated automotive culture of the Gulf makes Mahindra’s electric offerings well-positioned to cater to local preferences. The introduction of feature-rich, competitively priced EVs provides an alternative to established players like Tesla, BYD, and Hyundai.
What’s Next for Mahindra?
Mahindra’s strategy indicates a long-term commitment to the EV space, with future models expected to push the boundaries of performance, design, and affordability. As the BE and XEV lineups roll out, Mahindra could become a key player in shaping the region’s electric vehicle landscape.
The coming months will determine how Mahindra’s electric ambitions translate into actual market performance. With the first set of deliveries expected soon and more models lined up for 2025, the brand’s Middle Eastern expansion will be one to watch.
