Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity in India, one question remains at the forefront for buyers — can they deliver reliable range in real-world conditions? To find the answer, Mahindra’s latest electric SUVs, the XEV 9e, XEV 9s and BE 6, were subjected to an extensive road test between Ludhiana and Pathankot, covering a mix of city traffic, highways, high temperatures and long-distance driving.
The journey began at around 9 a.m. with all three vehicles fully charged. The initial stretch towards Jalandhar offered an early indication of efficiency. Despite navigating through urban traffic around Ludhiana, the EVs retained between 86% and 89% battery after covering approximately 54 kilometres, suggesting strong energy management from the outset.
Unlike controlled laboratory tests, the route exposed the vehicles to conditions commonly faced by Indian drivers. Average speeds ranged between 70 km/h and 90 km/h, while the drive included congested city roads, open highways and sections with mild elevation changes. Adding to the challenge was the summer heat, with temperatures touching 42°C and air conditioning running throughout the trip.
By the time the convoy reached Pathankot after travelling close to 190 kilometres, battery levels remained at roughly 58%. In practical terms, that meant the vehicles had completed nearly 200 kilometres while consuming only around 42% of their battery capacity.
The drive also highlighted the performance characteristics of Mahindra’s electric lineup. Instant torque, smooth acceleration and effortless overtaking made highway cruising comfortable, while uphill sections were handled without noticeable strain. Drivers reported that power delivery remained consistent, reducing fatigue during the extended journey.
One of the most notable findings was the limited impact of extreme weather on efficiency. Even under scorching conditions and continuous AC usage, cabin comfort remained high and range depletion stayed within reasonable limits. This is an important factor for Indian consumers, particularly in regions that experience prolonged summers.
Following a short break of about an hour in Pathankot, the team began the return leg to Ludhiana, completing the round trip later in the evening. Upon arrival, all three vehicles still had a substantial reserve of battery charge.
The XEV 9e finished the drive with 24% battery remaining and an estimated 145 kilometres of range displayed on the instrument cluster. The XEV 9s retained 19% charge with a projected range of 92 kilometres, while the BE 6 ended the test with 24% battery and an indicated range of 123 kilometres.
The results suggest that even after travelling more than 400 kilometres, the vehicles still had enough energy left for additional driving without requiring an immediate recharge. This level of endurance could significantly reduce range anxiety for long-distance travellers.
Based on the overall consumption figures recorded during the test, the EVs delivered approximately 5 to 6 kilometres for every 1% of battery used. That translates to a real-world driving range of around 475 to 500 kilometres on a full charge.
While the figures fall short of the company’s certified range claims by roughly 100 to 125 kilometres, the difference is understandable considering the demanding conditions, including heavy traffic, sustained highway speeds, extreme temperatures and uninterrupted AC operation.
Among the three models, the XEV 9e and XEV 9s stood out for their premium ride quality and long-distance comfort, making them attractive options for highway users. The BE 6, meanwhile, impressed as a practical and efficient choice for daily urban commuting.
Overall, the test demonstrated that Mahindra’s latest generation of electric SUVs is capable of handling far more than city duties. With strong efficiency, dependable performance and respectable range under challenging conditions, the vehicles appear well-equipped for both everyday use and extended road trips.
