Some things just go well together. For example, mustard on a hotdog. Windows and viruses. Eating a whole pizza and guilt. Indian automaker Mahindra has realized the power of combinations. They are taking the best qualities from Tesla, Smart and others to make their own electric car.
TESLA AND SMART INSPIRE MAHINDRA
Having just launched its new electric car in the UK, Mahindra looks to take their product into the advanced European makers of Sweden and Norway. Countries like this are tough to break into due to their strict regulations and concern for climate change. With that logic, these countries are moving faster towards electric vehicles compared to the Indian market. Mahindra wants to bring the electric capabilities of Tesla combined with the size of Smart to introduce the perfect car for Europe. The UK has already proven to be a success, so Mahindra will be looking to expand in the near future.
E20 SET FOR EXPANSION
With its small size like Smart like and electric power like Tesla, the e2o is set to take over the European market. The car was designed specifically for urban commuting, which explains its UK success. Despite some of the high costs the e2o has for Mahindra, the company is able to offset these by being exempt from road tax and congestion surcharges. Like the Tesla Model 3, the e2o is more affordable. The entry level model is 12,995 pounds while the higher end version is just under 16,000. Also similar to Tesla, the e2o has a complete online buying feature that bypasses the dealership network. All in all, it’s an impressive combination of some of the best advancements in automotive tech, making it a smart move for the Indian company.
INDIA’S AMBITIOUS GOAL
Despite India being a bit behind on their green initiative, the country has a rather ambitious vision. By 2030, India hopes that all 1.2 billion people will be driving electric vehicles. What’s even crazier, is that the government thinks they can do this without spending a dime. The self-funding plan is a smart move for a country that ranks as the third biggest gas polluter in the world. One advantage they do have is only 6 percent of households reportedly own a car, but surely, that number will grow.
