The Indian electric vehicle (EV) market has been growing at an incredible pace. With rising fuel costs, increasing awareness about sustainability, and government incentives, more buyers are turning to EVs than ever before. Among the most popular models, the Tata Nexon EV has been a pioneer, becoming the first mass-market EV to gain mainstream acceptance in India. However, competition is heating up, and Mahindra has entered the space with the XEV 9e, its latest electric SUV offering.
In this blog, we explore the story of a Tata Nexon EV owner who recently switched to the Mahindra XEV 9e. His journey provides valuable insights into how consumer preferences are evolving and what EV buyers truly expect from their vehicles.
Life with the Tata Nexon EV
The Nexon EV was the country’s first widely adopted electric SUV, and it impressed buyers with its affordability, compact design, and decent range. Our owner, let’s call him Arjun, chose the Nexon EV back in 2021, primarily for the following reasons:
- Affordability: At its price point, the Nexon EV was the most accessible electric SUV.
- City-Friendly Design: Compact dimensions and easy handling for daily commutes.
- Decent Range: With around 312 km (ARAI claimed) and about 200-230 km in real-world conditions, it was suitable for urban use.
- Tata’s Service Network: The brand was making a strong push with its EV strategy and charging tie-ups.
For two years, Arjun enjoyed his Nexon EV for daily city runs and occasional weekend trips. He appreciated the instant torque, low running costs, and quiet cabin experience.
However, as EV adoption grew, new options entered the market, and his needs began to evolve.
Challenges Faced with the Nexon EV
While the Nexon EV was reliable, there were some limitations that Arjun experienced over time:
- Range Anxiety on Highways
- Real-world highway range was often below 200 km when driving at higher speeds with AC.
- Fast-charging infrastructure, though improving, was not always available on his preferred routes.
- Performance on Longer Drives
- The Nexon EV was excellent for city usage but felt underpowered during extended highway journeys compared to newer EVs.
- Charging Time
- While overnight home charging worked well, the fast-charging speeds were not as quick as newer EVs on the market.
- Feature Set
- With newer EVs coming with advanced tech, ADAS, larger displays, and connected car features, the Nexon EV began to feel dated.
These factors made him consider an upgrade, and that’s where the Mahindra XEV 9e caught his attention.
Why Arjun Switched to the Mahindra XEV 9e
The Mahindra XEV 9e promised higher range, stronger performance, and advanced features, making it an attractive option for buyers looking beyond city commutes. Arjun listed these reasons for his switch:
- Significantly Better Range
- The XEV 9e offers a real-world range of 450-500 km on a full charge, more than double his Nexon EV.
- This eliminated his biggest concern—range anxiety.
- High-Speed Performance
- With more powerful motors, the XEV 9e offers 0-100 km/h in under 8 seconds, providing confidence for highway overtakes and long drives.
- Advanced Technology
- The SUV is equipped with ADAS Level 2 features, a panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and AI-driven connected car tech.
- It felt like a step up to a premium segment.
- Charging Convenience
- Mahindra has partnered with multiple fast-charging networks, ensuring better charging access.
- The car supports ultra-fast DC charging, adding 100 km of range in under 10 minutes.
- Space and Comfort
- The XEV 9e is larger, offering better rear-seat comfort, premium materials, and more practicality for family usage.
- Safety
- With a strong focus on structural integrity and features like 6 airbags and ESC, the XEV 9e gave him greater peace of mind.
Comparing Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XEV 9e
Here’s a quick comparison based on Arjun’s ownership experience:
| Feature | Tata Nexon EV | Mahindra XEV 9e |
|---|---|---|
| Range (Real-World) | 200-230 km | 450-500 km |
| Acceleration (0-100) | ~9.9 sec (Nexon EV Max) | ~7.5-8 sec |
| Charging Speed | 50 kW DC Fast Charging | 150 kW DC Ultra-Fast Charging |
| Tech Features | 7-inch infotainment, basic features | 12.3-inch screen, ADAS, premium features |
| Space & Comfort | Compact SUV, decent for 4 adults | Larger SUV, more premium comfort |
| Price Range | ₹14.5 – 19.5 lakh | ₹22 – 28 lakh |
While the Nexon EV remains a great option for budget-conscious urban buyers, the XEV 9e is clearly targeted at premium customers looking for longer range and luxury.
Lessons from His EV Journey
Arjun’s story highlights an important reality of EV ownership in India:
- First-Time EV Buyers Choose Affordability
- The Nexon EV was the ideal stepping stone for many Indians entering the EV market.
- Upgrades Are Driven by Range & Features
- Once comfortable with EVs, buyers want more range and technology, pushing them toward premium EVs like the XEV 9e.
- Infrastructure is Key
- Growth of fast-charging networks has made premium EVs more practical.
- Consumer Confidence is Growing
- Switching from one EV to another shows trust in the segment, not just one brand.
The Broader Picture – What This Means for India’s EV Market
The fact that early adopters like Arjun are upgrading from entry-level EVs to premium models indicates:
- EV adoption is maturing: Buyers are no longer experimenting—they’re now serious about long-term EV ownership.
- Competition is healthy: Tata, Mahindra, Hyundai, and MG are pushing each other to innovate.
- Premium EV segment will grow: As infrastructure expands, more buyers will shift from budget EVs to mid- and high-end electric SUVs.
Final Verdict
Arjun’s shift from the Tata Nexon EV to the Mahindra XEV 9e is not just about buying a new car—it reflects the evolution of India’s EV market. The Nexon EV gave him an affordable entry into electric mobility, while the XEV 9e now fulfills his growing need for range, comfort, and advanced features.
For urban buyers, the Nexon EV remains a smart, economical choice. But for those who regularly travel long distances, want luxury, and are willing to pay a premium, the Mahindra XEV 9e is a compelling upgrade.
As more stories like Arjun’s emerge, one thing is clear: India’s EV revolution is accelerating, and buyers are ready to embrace the next level of electric mobility.
