Mahindra might be building a Tesla rival

Yes, you read it right. Mahindra’s continued presence at the Formula E, their commitment to EVs in India and the recent push of Pininfarina to build their own car has fuelled speculations if Mahindra is looking at building a Tesla rival under the Italian brand.

If you dig deeper, in spite Mahindra’s SUV lineage, it is not very difficult for the Indian manufacturer to build one. Mahindra has already built the Halo electric sportscar. The Halo is capable of a top whack of 160kmph and a range of 200kms. Its closest rival from the Tesla stable is the Tesla Roadster – a 201kmph, 400km range sportscar. Whereas the Tesla starts off at $101,000 (about Rs 68 lakh) Mahindra has a target price of Rs 30-35 lakh for the Halo. 

Also, Mahindra’s committed presence at the Formula E since its inception, has provided the Indian car maker with knowledge, experience and learnings that will be instrumental in developing further EV technology for their road going cars. Anand Mahindra, chairman Mahindra group, at the London round of Formula E said that he would want Pininfarina to design a car of their own and not limit themselves to design cars for other brands.

After their last concept ‘Sergio’ in 2013, Pininfarina had unveiled the H2 Speed – hydrogen fuel cell powered concept car at Geneva, after Mahindra acquired controlling stake in the Italian design firm. The H2 Speed indicates Pininfarina’s interest in alternative fuel technology and if Mahindra can share their experience and expertise, a Tesla rival does not seem very far.