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Mahindra To Launch Hybrid Powertrains To Enhance Lineups - BE 6 & XEV 9e To Get Range Extenders
Mahindra is set to introduce hybrid powertrains across its vehicle lineup, including both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) platforms. This shift comes as the company acknowledges the growing interest in hybrid technology. Previously, Mahindra focused solely on EVs for the future, but slower-than-expected EV growth has prompted a reevaluation and the SUV-specialist marque is now exploring hybrid options to complement its existing models.
In May 2025, Mahindra sold 2,604 electric vehicles, primarily from its born-electric range. While these figures indicate progress, the company aims to achieve a monthly sales target of 5,000 units with the introduction of hybrid alternatives. This strategic move aligns with Mahindra's goal to expand its market presence and cater to diverse consumer preferences.
Hybrid Powertrain Developments
For its ICE models, Mahindra plans to implement a regular series-hybrid system. Meanwhile, the BEV lineup may feature a range-extender hybrid setup. In this configuration, a 1.2-litre petrol engine acts as a generator to recharge the battery, which then powers the electric motors driving the wheels. This approach aims to enhance efficiency and performance.
The XUV 3XO compact SUV will utilise a series-parallel hybrid system. Unlike the range-extender setup in BEVs, this system allows the combustion engine and electric motor to operate together or independently. The automatic selection between them optimises fuel efficiency by leveraging their strengths based on driving conditions.
Market Trends and Competitors
In April 2025 alone, India saw sales of 8,754 hybrid cars and SUVs. The Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder dominated this segment with 99 percent of sales. Government incentives like road tax exemptions have spurred hybrid adoption alongside EVs in some states. Hybrids accounted for a 2.1 percent market share in passenger vehicles last year with 85,000 units sold. Electric vehicles secured a slightly higher share at 2.4 percent with over 90,000 units sold despite challenges like charging infrastructure limitations.
The transition to full electrification is progressing slower than anticipated globally and in India. Although EV penetration surpassed 4 percent recently, achieving the government's ambitious target of 30 percent by 2030 remains distant. Even regions like the EU are reconsidering deadlines for zero-emissions goals due to various factors.
Other automakers are also venturing into hybrids; Hyundai plans to launch the Pallisade hybrid SUV in India soon. Skoda Auto Volkswagen and JSW MG Motor have similar plans for introducing hybrid models in their lineups as well. Maruti is developing an affordable range-extender powertrain for models such as Fronx and Baleno. This move reflects broader industry trends towards offering diverse powertrain options that cater to varying consumer needs while addressing environmental concerns.
The Indian government continues promoting hybrids through incentives like road tax exemptions comparable to those for EVs in certain states. This support has contributed significantly to recent growth in hybrid vehicle sales across the country.
The automotive landscape is evolving with manufacturers exploring multiple avenues beyond traditional ICE vehicles alone or fully electric solutions exclusively; hybrids offer an attractive middle ground balancing efficiency performance sustainability considerations effectively meeting diverse consumer demands worldwide today tomorrow alike!
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