Mahindra e2o Plus : The Mahindra e2o Plus, launched initially in 2016 as an upgraded four-door version of the original two-door e2o, represents one of India’s early steps towards affordable electric urban transportation. As a compact, eco-friendly hatchback, the e2o Plus was designed to cater to the growing demand for sustainable mobility, particularly in congested city environments. Over the years, it has become a symbol of practical electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the country, offering an economical and user-friendly option for daily commuting.
Design and Practicality: Compact Yet Spacious
The e2o Plus shares the city-friendly compactness of the original e2o but comes with the added convenience of four doors, making it more practical for families and users seeking ease of ingress and egress in the rear seats. Measuring 3,590 mm in length and 1,575 mm in width, it comfortably fits into tight parking spots and narrow roads prevalent in urban India.
Inside, the car accommodates four passengers with reasonable space, supported by a wheelbase of 2,258 mm and a ground clearance of 170 mm suitable for Indian road conditions. The hatchback body style provides 135 liters of cargo space, sufficient for daily errands, shopping, or light luggage.
Powertrain and Performance: Designed for City Use
The Mahindra e2o Plus comes in multiple variants with different battery and motor configurations, including the P4, P6, and P8 trims. The P4 and P6 models feature a 48V battery with a motor capable of producing 25.8 PS (19 kW) and 70 Nm of torque, providing a respectable range of 110 km on a single charge. The P8 variant steps up with a 72V battery, delivering 40.8 PS (30 kW) and 91 Nm torque, achieving an extended range of up to 140 km.
Performance-wise, the e2o Plus excels in stop-and-go city traffic. The P4 model can reach 60 km/h in 14.1 seconds with a top speed of 80 km/h, while the P8 achieves 0-60 km/h in 9.5 seconds and maxes out at 85 km/h. This speed and acceleration profile is adequate for urban environments, balancing efficiency and convenience.
Technology and Features: User-Friendly Innovations
The e2o Plus integrates several upgrades over its predecessor to enhance driver comfort and convenience. It features an automatic direct-drive transmission with driving modes including Reverse, Neutral, Forward, and Boost, simplifying driving especially for new EV users. The latest models support touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone connectivity, navigation, and climate control.
Safety and convenience are addressed through ABS and EBD braking systems, power windows, disc brakes at the front, and a functional infotainment system. However, it lacks airbags, hill-start assist, and other advanced safety features common in modern vehicles.
Battery Charging and Efficiency
Charging the e2o Plus takes approximately 6-9 hours for a full recharge using a standard 5A socket. While fast charging is unavailable, the battery’s size and efficiency enable it to last comfortably for daily city commuting without frequent charging.
POCO X2 – Dual camera setup with corning gorilla glass protection
Market Positioning and Legacy
Initially priced between INR 5.46 lakh to INR 9.76 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), the e2o Plus targeted eco-conscious consumers and early adopters of electric mobility. Despite facing challenges such as the absence of widespread charging infrastructure and the absence of updated safety norms compliance, it remained a practical solution for urban dwellers.
Mahindra Electric ceased production of the e2o Plus by 2019, focusing instead on newer models like the KUV Electric to better meet evolving standards and consumer expectations. The legacy of the e2o Plus, however, lies in its role in pioneering electric mobility in Indian cities, pushing government incentives and consumer acceptance forward.
Mahindra e2o Plus Conclusion: A Milestone in Electric Urban Mobility
The Mahindra e2o Plus served as a practical, affordable, and pioneering electric city car that helped introduce many Indians to the concept of electric vehicles. By offering convenience, eco-friendliness, and simplicity, it proved that electric mobility could be compact and cost-effective. Though newer and more advanced models have since taken its place, the e2o Plus remains an important milestone in India’s EV journey—a symbol of early innovation and sustainable urban transport.