Several revolutionary technologies are being used by Mahindra in its first mass-produced electric vehicle, the e2o hatchback. This includes regenerative braking to charge the Lithium ion batteries, charging with the help of a synchronised smartphone application and using the same to switch on the AC or heater inside the car, without being physically present inside. Interestingly, the company is now thinking to apply various new electrical technologies of this car for two wheelers and for a bigger electric vehicle.
The advantages offered in the e2o may further be utilised for application in the company's two wheelers, as per Mahindra engineers. Reportedly, Mahindra Two Wheelers is already working on the same. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra & Mahindra, said this in July 2012, “That you will see one (electric two-wheeler) is certain.” However, no timeline was given for the introduction of these electric vehicles.
Reportedly, the top Indian utility vehicle manufacturer is working on electric Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), both for Mahindra and South Korean partner SsangYong. Mahindra Reva Electric Vehicles appears to be providing expertise for development of electrical engines for the above two brands. However, there are no plans to launch a Reva SUV in the near future, as per a senior company official.
In addition to the above, the company also seems to be working for the production of a new electric vehicle, larger than the Reva in dimensions. This could be made available both to the Indian and the foreign markets. Though the Mahindra Reva e2o was launched on March 18 this year, responses are still trickling in slowly.
Mahindra Reva is certainly banking big on the electric technology to produce future cars in India and abroad. While Mahindra Reva is still waiting to get a proper customer response of this 4-seater e2o passenger car, the company is already working on something much bigger using the electric technology. A new and bigger electric vehicle platform is being developed at the Research and Development (R&D) centre of Mahindra Reva in Bangalore.
The company is also working overtime to produce new models in the entire utility vehicle segment and not just in the SUV category. It also plans to enter the compact sedan segment with a shorter version of the Verito, christened as Verito CS. From the above developments, it is clear that Mahindra is looking at the future of mobility with a realistic approach. At the same time, the company is not afraid of putting in money for ensuring safe and viable vehicles that can be used by all.
