Mahindra’s Role in Supporting Emerging Automotive Technologies

In the ever-evolving automotive industry landscape, Mahindra & Mahindra has emerged as a pivotal player, promoting the integration of cutting-edge technologies. As global automotive trends shift towards sustainability, efficiency, and innovation, Mahindra has demonstrated an exemplary commitment to advancing emerging technologies.

This dedication emphasizes their role as an industry leader and reflects a strategic vision to shape the future of mobility. From electric vehicles (EVs) to hybrid systems, autonomous driving advancements, and sustainability practices, Mahindra is setting new benchmarks.

In this article, we delve into how Mahindra is steering the industry forward with its robust support for these technologies.

How Mahindra is Supporting Emerging Automotive Technologies?

Strategic investments, innovation-driven research, and collaborative efforts can characterize Mahindra’s approach to supporting emerging automotive technologies. The company is actively engaged in pioneering advancements that align with global trends and local needs. Let’s explore the key areas where Mahindra Auto is making significant progress:

1. Investment in Electric Vehicles

Electrification is one of the biggest emerging trends in the automotive industry, with many OEMs developing electric vehicles (EVs) to minimize dependence on fossil fuels and emissions levels. Mahindra has made strategic and substantial investments in developing and promoting EVs in India:

• The e2o hatchback, launched in 2013, is Mahindra’s first electric four-wheeler. It is powered by next-gen lithium-ion batteries, which give it a range of 120 km on a single charge. This pioneering model kicked off Mahindra’s EV journey.
• Acquisition of Bangalore-based electric vehicle startup Reva in 2010. Reva’s expertise in EV technology is helping Mahindra launch new electric models across two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
• Mahindra Group has invested in EV startup Automobili Pininfarina to manufacture luxury electric vehicles. Together with affiliate Tech Mahindra, Mahindra Group has around 76% of the company’s stake, which shows its commitment to promoting EVs across vehicle segments.
• Partnership with SmartE, an EV fleet operator, to deploy electric 3-wheelers across major cities in India. So far, they have deployed over 1000 e-rickshaws, which are last-mile mobility solutions that contribute significantly to sustainable transportation.

2. Development of Hybrid Technologies

In addition to pure electric vehicles, Mahindra Auto is also monitoring hybrid technology for future vehicles that strategically combine an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) with an electric motor. The company is focusing on refining hybrid technology to optimize performance and efficiency.

3. Advancements in Autonomous Driving Technologies

Autonomous or self-driving technology is a revolutionary development that Mahindra Auto is proactively engaged in through its advanced R&D:

• The Mahindra XUV700 is one of the brand’s flagship SUVs, incorporating advanced driver assistance systems. The XUV700 comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of ADAS features, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): and Blind Spot Detection

The Alturas G4 is another SUV from Mahindra featuring advanced safety technologies. Although not fully autonomous, it includes several advanced features, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Front and Rear Parking Sensors.

• Mahindra Research Valley near Chennai houses an extensive R&D facility with around 1000 engineers exclusively working on mobility solutions targeting autonomous driving.
• Mobileeye, a pioneering, AI-powered Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology company, has expanded collaboration with Mahindra to explore next-generation driving technology.

4. Sustainability Initiatives

In addition to investing in emerging technologies, Mahindra Auto also undertakes several sustainability initiatives demonstrating environmental responsibility:

• Committed to being carbon neutral by 2040 across products and operations. The company aims to increase renewable energy and clean technology use to reduce emissions.
• Signed up for the Science Based Targets initiative in 2021 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as per the Paris Agreement goals. Demonstrates its concrete commitment to climate action.
• Mahindra Racing, the motorsport division, is pioneering the development of electric racing cars, promoting cleaner technology in high-performance vehicles and sports.

5. Technological Integration and Vehicle Connectivity

Connectivity is transforming vehicles from mere transportation machines to technology hubs on wheels. Modern vehicles increasingly integrate with informational systems, communication networks, smart devices, and internet-enabled features. Mahindra Auto is incorporating advanced connectivity solutions across its vehicle portfolio.

Some connected vehicle features offered by Mahindra models include:

• Infotainment systems with Android Auto and CarPlay connectivity for accessing maps, music, and phone interfaces.
• Telematics for real-time vehicle tracking and performance monitoring leveraging GPS, cellular, and WiFi networks.
• Remote diagnostics to proactively detect potential issues, perform over-the-air updates, and digital lock/unlock.
• Emergency Call (eCall) system that automatically contacts first responders in case of accidents or health emergencies.
• Vehicle-to-Cloud connectivity solutions to aggregate and analyze vehicle data for improving maintenance.

5. Collaboration with Tech Startups and Research Institutions

Innovation often flourishes through collaboration. Mahindra’s partnerships with tech startups and research institutions are vital in advancing automotive technologies.

• Mahindra collaborates with a variety of tech startups and research entities to drive innovation. These partnerships enable the integration of cutting-edge technologies and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Invested in emerging technology enterprise Carnot Technologies, operating in areas like EV battery technologies, hydrogen fuel cells, and intelligent mobility.
• Notable joint ventures and research projects focus on developing new technologies and refining existing ones. These collaborations help Mahindra stay ahead of industry trends and offer advanced solutions to their customers.
• By working with external experts and innovators, Mahindra accelerates the development and deployment of new technologies. This approach not only enhances their product offerings but also contributes to the broader advancement of the automotive industry.

Future Outlook

Mahindra Auto aims to be at the forefront of sustainable mobility by leveraging emerging technologies like electrification, renewable energy, and autonomous systems. It envisions an electric, connected, self-driving future catering to evolving consumer needs.

Mahindra is developing new EV models across passenger and commercial vehicles, including luxury SUVs, hypercars, 3-wheelers, and light commercial vehicles. Its R&D pipeline includes autonomous mobility solutions like driverless tractors and autonomous pods for last-mile connectivity.

Key strategic goals driving Mahindra’s technology roadmap are bringing affordable and reliable EVs to market, achieving leadership in EV sales, transitioning to clean energy, and pioneering autonomous driving tech suited for Indian conditions.

Conclusion

Mahindra Auto is playing a crucial role in steering India’s automotive industry towards sustainable and intelligent mobility. Its comprehensive investments and partnerships in EV manufacturing, clean energy technology, and autonomous systems exemplify its commitment to an electric, connected, and emission-free transportation future.

Mahindra aims to democratize access to cutting-edge mobility tech and cement its position as a leader in the emergent global automotive landscape by channeling its OEM expertise and leveraging collaborations.