Today marks a significant milestone for the Indian electric vehicle (EV) industry as German automotive giant Volkswagen and India’s Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) have formalized a supply agreement concerning components of Volkswagen’s MEB for Mahindra’s purpose-built electric platform, INGLO. This collaboration underscores a collective effort toward advancing India’s electrification objectives.
Mahindra, a prominent player in the Indian SUV market, had been engaged in discussions regarding the integration of MEB electric components from Volkswagen into its Born Electric Platform.
Both manufacturers have recently aligned their strategies and product offerings to better resonate with the Indian market, garnering attention with recent successful product launches.
Mahindra demonstrated its prowess with the XUV700 and Thar models, earning commendations for the brand. Meanwhile, Volkswagen showcased its commitment by heavily investing in the dedicated MQB A0 IN platform.
The signed partnership agreement between the two brands marks a significant step towards the development of 100% zero-emission vehicles. This strategic collaboration entails the supply of specific electric components and unified cells, with discussions underway to expand the scope of the agreement.
Volkswagen’s MEB platform and its components will not only be utilized by its subsidiary brands like Audi, Skoda, and SEAT/CUPRA but also by external partners such as Ford and Mahindra.
Mahindra will notably become the first external partner to adopt VW’s unified cell concept. This supply agreement is pivotal in ensuring a reliable and consistent energy supply, with an estimated total volume of about 50 GWh anticipated over its lifetime.
Mahindra has ambitious plans to introduce five all-electric SUVs in India, leveraging their innovative and purpose-built electric platform, INGLO.
This initiative represents a significant stride towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future, poised to set a benchmark in the Indian automobile industry. The anticipated launch of these electric SUVs early next year holds the promise of catalyzing positive transformation within the automotive sector.
Also read: Renault and Volkswagen Engage in Discussions for Joint Development of Affordable Electric Vehicle
