In Mahindra & Mahindra's portfolio of models with internal combustion engine, a sub-4 metre monocoque model was the only thing missing. That gap will be filled by the just-revealed XUV300 compact SUV in February 2019. An electric version will be in the first set of electric SUVSs, if not be the first electric SUV, by Mahindra. Codenamed S210, the electric SUV is scheduled for launch by mid-2020.
M&M is currently developing a new set of high-powered electric powertrains. The S210 will be powered by two of them as there is a plan to offer at least two variants of the electric SUV. Dr Pawan Goenka, managing director, M&M, in a response to a query from Autocar Professional says, "We'll probably do two versions of it. One version will be more of an object of desire with higher kW/h, one version that will be more an object of mobility, perhaps more for commuting experience."
The LG Chem connect
The S210 will be the first product with cells developed exclusively for India applications by LG Chem, a leading Korean manufacturer of advanced batteries. M&M and LG Chem have an on-going collaboration in the field of advanced lithium-ion battery technology.
Under the collaboration, LG Chem will offer a unique cell exclusively for India application and will also supply Li-ion cells based on NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) chemistry with high energy density. These cells will be deployed in electric vehicles from Mahindra and SsangYong. LG Chem will also design the lithium-ion battery modules for Mahindra Electric, which in turn will create battery packs for the Mahindra Group and other customers.
Mass scale electric mobility is not a reality in India yet, but M&M is making the moves to be ready whenever the opportunity comes.
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