There are several factors to consider when choosing the right car, ranging from budget to comfort, and from practicality to fuel type. The latter plays a more significant role than you might think, as they determine performance and efficiency, as well as your carbon footprint. A glowing headliner and no drop of fuel might be the best choice, according to an Indian automaker. India has showcased a model reportedly better than Japan’s models that burn hydrogen. Find out more below to see whether you agree.
Choosing the right fuel type
If you strive to keep your carbon footprint as low as possible, a car with an internal combustion engine (ICE) as its powertrain will not be the right choice for you. ICE vehicles burn fossil fuels that emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide, causing pollution and worsening climate change. There is also the possibility of future restrictions due to the global mission to achieve zero emissions by 2050.
So, the best option is to choose between plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) and battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). In Japan, PHEVs have become increasingly popular. According to a report by ITBusinesstoday, hybrids accounted for more than 50% of 2023 sales. Commercially, hydrogen has been popular as a fuel type.
Now, while Japan burns hydrogen, India shows something better, and it is a glowing headliner that does not use a drop of fuel. Perhaps it will be the model for you?
While Japan burns hydrogen, India shows something better
India has highlighted its dedication to triggering a green revolution with solar energy, and now it’s moving forward with BEVs. The Indian automaker, Mahindra, has launched its third electric car in the Born Electric series. This model, known as the Mahindra XEV 9S, is a ‘bold and masculine’ SUV, spacious enough to transport the entire family.
The XEV 9S follows the automaker’s two prior SUV models, the XEV 9e and BE 6. These two models were popular among customers, selling over 30,000 units in just seven months since their launch. The XEV 9S will be a more practical version of the XEV 9e, which was the most popular among the first electric models. However, do not let the practicality fool you, as its features are quite noteworthy.
Look forward to a glowing headliner and no drop of fuel
Customers can expect a reported range of 521 km (323 miles) to 679 km (421 miles) and a power of up to 282 bhp. You can choose between three battery options. The XEV 9S has quite a few features to look forward to, from the interior to the exterior, and even its safety features.
Interior
- A digital driver display and two touchscreen infotainment systems
- 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
- Ventilated, massaging front seats
- Multiple wireless chargers
- A head-up display
- Multi-zone climate control
- Sliding second-row seats
- Two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo
- Remote parking function
- Panoramic sunroof
- Multi-color ambient lighting
Exterior
- Blanked off grille
- Full-width LED light bar
- Triangular LED projector headlights
- Alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers
- Flush door handles
- Wheel arches with cladding
- Chunky bumpers with sporty skid plates
- Tailgate with gesture control
Safety
- Electronic stability control
- 7 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- 360-degree surround view camera
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Level-2 advanced driver assistance systems
So far, this BEV will primarily be sold in India, with bookings for the model officially opening on January 14, 2026. Prices will start at 19.95 Lakh Indian rupees, which is approximately $22,182.96. So, if you are a resident of India, you are in luck, especially if you decided that your fuel type preference is no fuel. Not only will you be driving in comfort and style, but you will also be an active contributor to mitigating climate change. In other mobility news, a mythical sports car reportedly has Toyota and BYD beaten.