INDIA: Mahindra and Mahindra, a prominent player in the automotive industry, have joined forces with Volkswagen, a global leader in EV technology. The collaboration will see Mahindra integrating Volkswagen’s state-of-the-art APP550 electric drive unit into its upcoming Thar. e and BE ranges of electric vehicles.
In order to support their ID range of EVs, Volkswagen introduced the APP550 motor in April. Boasting an impressive 286 bhp and a peak torque of 550 Nm, this motor represents a significant leap in performance from its predecessor, which delivered 201 bhp and 310 Nm of torque.
Mahindra’s visionary step involves integrating the APP550 motor into its INGLO platform, a move that is set to power the entire lineup of Mahindra’s Battery Electric Vehicles, including the highly anticipated Thar.e model. This marks a significant milestone for Mahindra as it enters the electric vehicle market with a powerful and advanced drivetrain.
The partnership with Volkswagen, which offers components from its MEB platform, holds immense potential for Mahindra. By tapping into the latest technology from a global EV heavyweight, Mahindra gains a competitive edge in an increasingly competitive market. The APP550 rear-wheel-drive motor is slated to debut in the VW ID.7 later this year, showcasing its adaptability and reliability.
Volkswagen is even considering the possibility of localizing the APP550 motor production in India. With the combined production volumes of Mahindra and potential future VW and Skoda EVs, this move could revolutionize the Indian EV landscape.
While the door is open to supplying the motor to other automakers in India, Volkswagen’s primary focus remains on nurturing its partnership with Mahindra.
In an era where performance and efficiency are paramount in the EV domain, the adoption of the advanced APP550 motor promises to give Mahindra and Mahindra a formidable competitive advantage.
This collaboration sets the stage for a new era of electric mobility, positioning Mahindra as a force to be reckoned with in the evolving world of electric vehicles.
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