Even Mahindra's Rivals Are Buying Their Electric Cars: Ashok Leyland Switch CEO Buys XEV 9E
Deliveries for brand-new Mahindra EVs have started across the country, and we have also seen several videos and social media posts of customers after taking delivery. Many celebrities have also tested and bought this new EV, and we have shared some of these on our website too. Mahindra EVs have become so popular that even Mahindra’s rivals are buying their electric cars.
The post has been shared by Mahesh Babu on his X profile. For those wondering who this person is—he is currently the CEO of Switch Mobility, which is owned by Ashok Leyland. Switch Mobility and Mahindra are rivals in the commercial vehicle segment, and the CEO of Mahindra’s rival has now bought a brand-new XEV 9E.
Mahesh Babu posted an image of himself along with his family standing next to their all-new Mahindra XEV 9E. It should be noted that this is not the first time Mahesh has bought a Mahindra product. It looks like before the XEV 9E, Mahesh used to drive an XUV. We assume he was using the XUV 500. Mahesh posted the image with the caption:
"From XUV to new Mahindra XEV9E. Great features, outstanding electric drive experience, and family delight. Best EV vehicle in India. Thanks @mahindraesuvs @rajesh664 @vijaynakra @Velu_Mahindra."
Mahesh bought the XEV 9E in a blue shade, which looks premium. The electric SUV is currently the most feature-loaded and technologically advanced EV from Mahindra. It is based on Mahindra’s all-new platform, specifically developed for EVs. The front fascia features drop-down LED DRLs with a connecting LED bar. The EV gets a coupe-like design with all-LED tail lamps and a connecting bar running across the width of the vehicle.
Like most modern Mahindra vehicles, the XEV 9E is also a feature-loaded SUV. It offers premium features like three large 12.30-inch screens on the dashboard, which Mahindra calls the “Cinemascope Cockpit.” Additionally, Mahindra provides two screens for rear-seat passengers to ensure they don’t miss out on entertainment.
Other features include a VisionX Augmented Reality HUD, MAIA (Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture), a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 processor, 24 GB of RAM, and 128 GB of internal storage. The SUV also comes with seven airbags, Level 2+ ADAS, a 360-degree camera, and more. Other notable features include leatherette upholstery with seat ventilation, electrically adjustable seats, an infinity glass roof with dynamic lights, and multi-zone climate control.
The electric SUV is available with two battery pack options. The lower variants get a 59 kWh battery pack, while the higher versions get a 79 kWh battery.
The smaller battery version generates 228 Bhp and 380 Nm of peak torque, offering a claimed range of 542 km. The larger 79 kWh variant generates 282 Bhp and 380 Nm of peak torque, with a claimed range of 656 km.
The price for a brand-new Mahindra XEV 9E starts at Rs 21.90 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to Rs 30.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
Why Did Mahesh Babu Buy a Mahindra EV?
Many might have this question in their minds. You would be surprised to know that before joining Switch Mobility, Mahesh was part of the Mahindra Group.
He worked with Mahindra for over two decades and was, in fact, the CEO of Mahindra Electric. Mahesh played an important role in launching new electric vehicle models and developing innovative mobility solutions, such as the Mahindra Treo, India's first electric three-wheeler platform.
It was probably due to the confidence he has in the brand that he decided to go with Mahindra’s EV rather than opting for an expensive foreign brand. It is definitely a great vehicle to upgrade from an XUV as it is definitely a value for money product from an Indian brand.