Mahindra’s Pratap Bose on how EVs are transforming car design in India

Electric vehicle (EV) architectures are changing how cars are designed, according to Mahindra’s Chief Design Officer, Pratap Bose. In a recent interview, Bose explained that EVs are creating new opportunities for packaging, space use, and styling. He noted that India is no longer a conservative market and is ready to lead with bold, global-standard vehicles.

Key Highlights

• Mahindra’s Pratap Bose says EVs are changing car design and space use in India
• Sub-4-metre vehicles and SUVs have driven innovation and growth in the Indian market
• BE6 and XUV9e coupe SUVs sold over 40000 units combined in about a year
• Sustainability efforts include recycled materials and streamlined manufacturing processes
• Design cycles have shortened to about 36 months without compromising safety

Recent Changes in Indian Car Design

Passenger vehicle design in India has evolved significantly in recent years. The sub-4-meter category has seen substantial growth over the past decade. This segment, unique outside of Japan’s K-car market, has driven innovation in hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, and minivans. Global manufacturers are often surprised by the variety within this size limit.

SUVs have become the most popular body type in India, mirroring global trends. Indian SUVs now range from about 3.6 metres to 5 metres in length. The rise of all-electric platforms has further expanded design possibilities, offering greater flexibility in vehicle layouts.

Impact of EV Architecture on Design

EVs allow for more radical design experimentation. Without a front engine, designers gain additional space. Batteries are placed on the floor, motors move to different locations, and the absence of a transmission tunnel creates a flat floor. This results in more cabin space for the same vehicle footprint. Designers can also add features like a front trunk, or "frunk."

Mahindra is testing new body types, such as coupe SUVs like the BE6 and XEV9e. These models have sold over 40,000 units combined in about a year. Overseas markets have also shown interest in these vehicles, indicating that Indian consumers and international buyers are open to bold designs.

Global Potential and Manufacturing Changes

Indian-designed sub-4-meter vehicles built to global standards have export potential. Mahindra’s XUV 3XO, initially meant for India, has found success abroad. There is growing global interest in compact cars, especially in Europe, where stricter emission rules and city layouts favor smaller vehicles. India’s car ownership rate is still low, at about 30 cars per 1,000 people, compared to 700 per 1,000 in Europe, so small cars will remain important in India.

The design and manufacturing process has shifted from a siloed approach to a concurrent one. Digital tools now allow early sharing of 3D CAD models, enabling faster feedback and adjustments. Manufacturing methods, such as laser welding for roof joints in the BE6 and 9E, have improved both strength and appearance.

Sustainability and Design Cycle

Sustainability is now integrated into vehicle design from the start. Some interior fabrics use about 50 percent recycled PET bottle filaments, with a goal to reach 100 percent. Reducing plastic types and avoiding painted plastics make recycling easier. Manufacturing processes include water recycling, solar energy, and planning for battery reuse.

The design cycle has shortened. Ten years ago, car development took about six years. Now, new models can launch in about 36 months, thanks to digitization and platform strategies. However, safety and reliability remain priorities, with vehicles undergoing extensive physical testing.

Upcoming Design Trends

Bose predicts that minivan body shapes will return globally within the next three to five years. For interiors, voice recognition and gesture control will become more common, leading to simpler and cleaner cabin designs with fewer physical controls.

Also Read: Upcoming Mahindra Cars in India: New SUVs, Pickups, and Electric Models Detailed

CarBike 360 Says

As EV adoption accelerates, Mahindra’s design story under Pratap Bose shows how Indian carmakers can turn regulation and technology into compelling emotional products. By blending Indian sensibilities with global sophistication, these EVs signal a future where design, software and sustainability move in sync and where cars created for India are equally desirable anywhere in the world.