On November 27, 2025, Mahindra Electric stunned the Indian auto market by launching the XEV 9S — India’s first ground-up, electric-origin 7-seater SUV — at a starting price of just Rs 19.95 lakh (ex-showroom). The surprise wasn’t just the price. It was the ambition: the top-spec XEV 9S Pack Three Above, priced at Rs 29.45 lakh, is being positioned as a direct rival to luxury electric SUVs that cost nearly three times as much — up to Rs 80 lakh. This isn’t just a new model. It’s a recalibration of what’s possible in India’s EV space.
From Teaser to Reality: The #ScreamElectric Moment
The launch was preceded by a cinematic teaser on Mahindra’s YouTube channel on November 25, 2025, under the hashtag #ScreamElectric. "A little music, a little movement, and a whole lot of chemistry," the video promised. The tagline — "The Big New Electric XEV 9S becomes a part of your moment" — wasn’t marketing fluff. It was a promise of emotional resonance, not just performance. And the product delivered. Unlike many EVs that are just ICE cars with batteries swapped in, the XEV 9S was built from the ground up on Mahindra’s proprietary INGLO architecture, a platform designed exclusively for electric mobility. That means no compromises on space, weight distribution, or driving dynamics.
Power, Range, and Performance That Defy Price
Under the hood — or rather, under the floor — the XEV 9S offers three battery options: 59 kWh, 70 kWh, and 79 kWh. The entry-level 59 kWh unit delivers 228 bhp and hits 100 kmph in 7.7 seconds. The 79 kWh beast? A staggering 282 bhp, 380 Nm of torque, and a blistering 0–100 kmph time of just seven seconds. Top speed? 202 kmph. For context, that’s faster than most petrol-powered mid-size SUVs in India. And it’s all wrapped in a design that screams electric: blanked-out grille, L-shaped LED DRLs, flush door handles, and a full-width light bar that looks like it belongs on a concept car.
Inside, the cabin is a tech haven. A triple-screen setup dominates the dashboard — digital cluster, central infotainment, and two rear-seat screens mounted on the front seats. Higher trims add an augmented reality HUD, Harman Kardon audio, multi-colour ambient lighting, ventilated second-row seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Even the frunk (front trunk) is a 150-litre marvel — enough for a week’s groceries or two golf bags. Boot space? 394 litres. That’s more than most 5-seater EVs.
Safety and Smart Tech: More Than Just a Car
Security and intelligence are baked in. The XEV 9S comes with Level 2+ ADAS powered by five radars and a vision camera. Driver drowsiness detection uses Mahindra’s proprietary DOMS (Eyedentity) system — a camera that tracks eye movement and alerts you before you nod off. Then there’s Secure360 Pro: live cabin monitoring, recording, and even remote communication. An in-cabin camera lets you check on kids or pets while parked. It’s not just safety — it’s peace of mind.
Why This Changes the Game
Here’s the twist: the XEV 9S starts at Rs 1.95 lakh less than the XEV 9e, despite being larger, more powerful, and more advanced. That’s not a pricing error. It’s a statement. Mahindra is betting that Indian families don’t want to pay premium prices for premium features — they want premium features without the premium price tag. And by positioning the Rs 29.45 lakh top variant against Rs 80 lakh EVs, Mahindra isn’t just competing on specs. It’s redefining value.
Compare this to Tesla’s Model Y or BMW iX1 — both priced above Rs 50 lakh in India. The XEV 9S matches or exceeds them in space, tech, and performance, at less than half the cost. Even the charging options are thoughtful: 7.2 kW and 11.2 kW home chargers cost Rs 50,000 and Rs 75,000 respectively — significantly lower than industry norms.
What’s Next? The Timeline
Test drives begin December 5, 2025. Bookings open January 14, 2026. Deliveries start January 23, 2026. That’s a tight window — but intentional. Mahindra wants to build hype, not just inventory. The XEV 9S will wear the brand’s new "butterfly" emblem, signaling its place in the INGLO family alongside future models like the XEV 9e and upcoming SUVs.
Who’s Really Winning?
For now, the winners are Indian families. Parents who need space, tech-savvy buyers who want connectivity, and eco-conscious consumers who refuse to compromise. Mahindra didn’t just build a car. It built a statement: electric mobility doesn’t have to be a luxury. It can be a practical, powerful, and emotional choice — for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Mahindra XEV 9S compare to the Tesla Model Y in India?
The XEV 9S offers more interior space (7 seats vs. 5), comparable performance (0–100 kmph in 7 seconds), and superior tech features like rear-seat screens and an AR HUD — all at less than half the price. The Model Y starts around Rs 45 lakh in India, while the top XEV 9S is Rs 29.45 lakh. Mahindra’s advantage is value-for-money; Tesla’s is brand prestige and global charging network.
What makes the INGLO architecture different from other EV platforms?
The INGLO platform is designed from scratch for EVs, not adapted from ICE vehicles. This means optimal battery placement for lower center of gravity, better weight distribution, and more cabin space. Unlike competitors who retrofit platforms, Mahindra’s INGLO allows for features like the 150-litre frunk and 394-litre boot without sacrificing ride quality — a key reason the XEV 9S feels so refined.
Is the XEV 9S suitable for long-distance travel in India?
With the 79 kWh battery, Mahindra claims up to 550 km of range on a single charge under ideal conditions. Real-world highway driving may reduce that to 450 km — still enough for most intercity trips. Charging infrastructure remains a challenge, but Mahindra’s 7.2 kW and 11.2 kW home chargers are affordable, and public DC fast-charging is expanding rapidly across major highways.
Why is Mahindra pricing the XEV 9S below the XEV 9e despite being larger?
Mahindra is using the XEV 9S as a volume driver to capture the three-row EV market. By undercutting the XEV 9e — which is positioned as a premium compact SUV — they’re creating a halo effect. The lower entry price pulls in budget-conscious buyers, while the top variant steals attention from luxury brands. It’s a classic strategy: use affordability to build trust, then upsell.
What’s the warranty and service support like for the XEV 9S?
Mahindra offers an 8-year or 1.6 lakh km warranty on the battery and electric drivetrain — among the best in the Indian EV market. Service support is expanding through 500+ authorized EV centers, with dedicated EV-trained technicians. Mobile service vans are also being deployed in Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities, ensuring maintenance isn’t a bottleneck for owners.
Will the XEV 9S be exported to other markets?
Mahindra has confirmed export plans for Southeast Asia and Latin America, with initial shipments expected by mid-2026. The XEV 9S’s combination of space, tech, and low price makes it ideal for markets seeking affordable, family-friendly EVs. Europe and North America are under evaluation, but regulatory and charging standards may require modifications before entry.