Mahindra e2o review, test drive and video

The Mahindra e2o is based on an all-new platform, first seen as the NXR concept designed by DC Design. Built on a ridiculously small 1958mm wheelbase, it’s got awkward proportions, accentuated by the massive grille which, on a car with no radiator, looks like overkill. However, this unconventional design, full of quirky elements instantly tells you that this is no ordinary car. All the body panels are made of ABS plastic (claimed to be dent proof) and bolted onto a tubular frame steel chassis with the electric motor sitting behind the rear wheels. The e2o uses independent, MacPherson struts and the rear is non-independent coil springs.

The all-important (and heavy) lithium-ion batteries are placed low below the front seats, which goes a long way in the keeping the centre of gravity down. However, the bulky battery pack pushes the kerb weight to a not-so-light 830kg. The e2o uses 10 on-board computers and Mahindra has come up with a number of innovative solutions for which it has filed 30-odd patents. You can plan your trip with the help of Google Maps, the software telling you how far you can go on your current battery charge before having to turn back. You get an additional 10km of ‘limp home’ range before your battery completely dies, and the e2o can even ‘revive’ your dead battery and give you a further 10km still, all via a remote link to your car. A 15-minute quick charge can get you an additional 25km, you are connected to the car via a phone app that can start your air-con for you and lock and unlock the car, and the company will even sell you a solar charger for a pricey Rs 1.5 lakh (the Sun2Car system can get you a free 50-60 percent charge every day, sunlight willing).