Mahindra Confirms Hybrid Strategy for ICE and EV Platforms

Mahindra is moving towards hybridisation across its product range, developing hybrid solutions for both internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and its born-electric (BEV) lineup notably. BE 6 and XEV 9e. The company, which earlier focused only on EVs, is now adapting to the rising interest in hybrids and the slow EV market growth.

Hybrid tech for both ICE and EVs

While ICE vehicles from Mahindra are expected to get conventional strong hybrid powertrains, the electric lineup could see the introduction of range-extender hybrid systems. In the latter, a small petrol engine, likely a 1.2-litre unit, will serve purely as a generator, charging the battery that drives the electric motor. This setup is similar to what Maruti Suzuki is currently developing for models like the Fronx and Swift.

In May 2025, Mahindra sold 2,604 EVs, with most of the numbers coming from its BEV lineup. Now, with a goal of hitting 5,000 monthly EV sales, the company hopes hybrid options will help bridge the gap.

XUV 3XO hybrid coming soon

As part of this new strategy, Mahindra is working on a strong hybrid version of the recently launched XUV 3XO. Unlike the upcoming range-extender BEVs, the 3XO hybrid will use a series-parallel system paired with the brand’s existing 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. This system will allow both the engine and electric motor to drive the wheels independently or together, depending on efficiency demands.

Hybrids gaining popularity in India

In 2024, hybrids accounted for 2.1 percent of passenger vehicle sales in India with 85,000 units sold, while EVs captured a 2.4 percent share. In April 2025 alone, 8,754 hybrids were sold, with the Maruti Grand Vitara and Toyota Hyryder dominating the segment. Recent tax benefits on hybrids in some Indian states have further encouraged growth.

As full electrification remains a long-term target, automakers are increasingly turning to hybrids as a transition solution. India recently surpassed 4 percent EV penetration for the first time, but achieving the government's 30 percent target by 2030 still seems ambitious.

More hybrid models coming

Mahindra isn’t the only one betting on hybrids. Hyundai is bringing the Palisade hybrid, while Skoda-Volkswagen and JSW MG also plan to launch hybrid models in India. As EV growth stays slow and charging infrastructure remains limited, hybrids are becoming an important option for Indian buyers.