Mahindra 3XO Strong Hybrid In The Works: Fresh Details Surface
Mahindra Automotive has managed to achieve massive success in the Indian automotive market with its internal combustion engine vehicles. It is now also going to make a big dent in the electric vehicle segment as well with the launch of its born-electric SUVs, the BE 6 and XEV 9E. However, Mahindra is not looking to take some rest. It has been reported that the company has started developing a new strong hybrid powertrain, and the first model to get this powertrain will be the XUV 3XO.
Mahindra 3XO strong hybrid details
As per the reports, Mahindra Automotive wants to diversify its product offerings in India, and for this reason, it is now looking to launch its first strong hybrid model. The company has already commenced the development of the XUV 3XO strong hybrid, and the codename of this project is S226.
Most likely, it will be launched in the country by 2026. Sources have claimed that Mahindra has finalized its 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine to be the base for its first strong hybrid system.
This motor will come mated to a strong hybrid setup consisting of an electric motor and a small battery pack. Mahindra has chosen this particular engine as the base for its hybrid setup, as this engine’s design will help in the accommodation of all the necessary systems for the hybrid powertrain.
BE 6 and XEV 9E range extender models also in talks
In addition to a fully-fledged strong hybrid powertrain for the XUV 3XO, Mahindra is reportedly also in the talking stage of the development of range extender hybrids. These models will be based on the newly launched BE 6 and XEV 9E EV SUVs, which utilize the in-house developed INGLO skateboard electric architecture.
For those who may not be aware, range extender hybrids are those strong hybrid powertrain models in which the internal combustion engine acts as a generator. They do not power the wheels directly, as this task is done by dedicated electric motors. The engine in this setup is used to power the batteries and thus helps the vehicles in having an extremely long range.
The same system is called a series hybrid by Maruti Suzuki, and most likely later this year, the company will be launching the Fronx Series Hybrid in India. Coming back to Mahindra Automotive, as per the reports, the technical and design development is underway for these range extender hybrids.
However, the decision to finalize and launch these models will be based on the response that Mahindra gets in the next 6-8 months. Currently, the company will take feedback on the newly launched BE 6 and XEV 9E. If finalized, Mahindra aims to add 40,000-50,000 units to its production and sales capacity.
Mahindra’s views on hybrid technology
While speaking at the quarterly earnings media conference, Anish Shah, MD and CEO of Mahindra and Mahindra, stated, “It’s a slightly different powertrain. And to the extent that it’s required, we’ll be ready with that. If there is a significant change in the demand for hybrid vehicles and our customers ask for it, then we’ll move into it much faster.”
Apart from Shah, Rajesh Jejurikar, executive director and CEO of Mahindra’s automotive and farm business, added, “We don’t see hybrid-wanting customers actively cannibalising us, except in very few segments at an appropriate time. Depending on how the category is moving, we will look at hybrids whenever we need.”
Are hybrids a good bet for Mahindra?
The short answer to this question is yes. Betting on strong hybrids seems to be a very logical and safe decision. This is because, even though the BE 6 and XEV 9E are going to be big hits, there are still problems with charging infrastructure, and people will still have range anxiety and other issues. So, in order to diversify and lure in more buyers, adding strong hybrid vehicles to its lineup will only benefit Mahindra in the long run.