Find out why an Indian driver traded his 7‑year Ford Everest for the Mahindra XEV 9S electric SUV, praising low running costs and modern tech. Read more!
Why the old Ford Everest needed a replacement
After seven years behind the wheel of a Ford Everest, the owner in Delhi noticed the vehicle was approaching a decade of service – just as many Indian cities begin tightening limits on diesel‑powered cars. With the Everest nearing the end of its life, he started looking for a fresh set of wheels.
Initial options: Toyota Fortuner and Innova
He first eyed the familiar 7‑seat SUVs from Toyota – the Fortuner and the Innova. Although his budget could accommodate them, he felt the Fortuner’s price didn’t match the value it promised, and the Innova, while reliable, didn’t excite him enough.
Turning to electric SUVs
Curious about the fast‑growing EV market, he began researching electric alternatives. The Mahindra XEV 9E was appealing but fell short on seating capacity. When Mahindra unveiled the XEV 9S – a 7‑seat electric SUV – the decision became clearer.
Cost benefits that sealed the deal
The XEV 9S is priced lower than its petrol rivals, and under current Indian regulations the vehicle‑registration tax is waived, effectively eliminating the road‑tax cost. The owner also installed an 11 kW home charger, allowing inexpensive overnight charging.
Running costs and charging practicality
Charging a full battery takes about 6‑7 hours, which fits easily into a night‑at‑home routine. The electricity bill for a typical weekly commute is a fraction of what the diesel Everest used to cost, turning the EV into a genuinely economical choice.
Driving feel and ride comfort
On the road, the XEV 9S delivers a solid, stable feel across a range of speeds. An adaptive suspension smooths out bumps, making city traffic and highway cruising alike comfortable for a family of seven.
Tech and convenience highlights
- Automatic parking assist that steers the vehicle into tight spots.
- Remote‑control features enabling the driver to move the SUV forward or reverse from a distance via a smartphone app.
- Digital instrument cluster with real‑time range and energy‑usage data.
Final verdict
At the time of testing, the owner reports no major drawbacks. Low operating expenses, tax‑free registration, a full set of modern tech, and adequate space make the Mahindra XEV 9S a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline SUVs like the Fortuner.