Introduction
2025 is the turning point for the electric vehicle industry in India. What was an “alternative” before is now turning mainstream, particularly in the mid-size SUV segment. Tata Curvv EV with growing fuel prices, aggressive govt. With incentives and a fast-growing charging network, EVs are no longer niche—they’re the future.
At the forefront of this electric revolution are two indigenous behemoths: Tata Motors and Mahindra. Tata has already gained huge cred with vehicles like the Nexon EV and Tiago EV, being the face of India’s early EV adoption. Mahindra, meanwhile, is prepping for an electrified resurgence with its all-new Born-EV platform and vehicles like the XUV.e8, BE.05, and impending Scorpio.e.
The spotlight is on two of their most anticipated SUVs: the Tata Curvv EV and Mahindra’s upcoming BE or XUV electric models. Both promise futuristic designs, powerful performance, and feature-loaded cabins—but the big question remains: which one truly leads India’s next-gen EV race? That’s the battle we’re about to dive into.
Design and Styling
The Tata Curvv EV is notable for its coupe SUV silhouette, a futuristic yet urban-sophisticated design that combines style and restraint. It’s minimalist, sleek, and aerodynamically cut, with a full-width LED light bar, flush door handles, and sharp character lines. It has the feel of a car made not only for Indian roads but for the world. There is an overpowering sense of elegance and restraint, which makes it look refined, almost premium-European.
By way of comparison, Mahindra’s BE.05 and XUV.e8 offer muscular, aggressive personas. Imagine edgy lines, acute DRLs, imposing body cladding, and a raised stance that shouts SUV supremacy. The BE.05, in this case, adopts a quite angular, hyper-futuristic appearance with its C-shaped lighting signature, matte surfaces, and concept-level detailing—it appears to have leaped off the pages of a sci-fi movie.
Performance and Range
The Tata Curvv EV promises to be grounded in Tata’s Gen 2 EV architecture, with improved battery efficiency and modular flexibility. Though official numbers have not been announced, initial reports indicate a range of about 450–500 km on a single charge due to a high-density lithium-ion battery, likely in the 40–50 kWh bracket. The output of the motor is rumored to be in the 100–130 kW (134–174 hp) range, with a 0–100 km/h time of under 9 seconds and a top speed of about 160 km/h. It’s designed to find a compromise between city driving and high-mileage touring.
On the other hand, Mahindra’s BE.05 and XUV.e8 use the INGLO platform, which has been co-developed with VW’s MEB platform technology. The BE.05 will have a 60–80 kWh battery with a top-up of up to 550–600 km claimed range, depending on the model. Motor choices may consist of rear-wheel drive and dual-motor AWD configurations, with power outputs of up to 250 kW (335 hp) on high-end models. Acceleration may be on par with luxury EVs, with 0–100 km/h in only 6 seconds and electronically capped top velocities around 180–190 km/h.
In terms of real-world efficiency, Tata’s earlier EVs were appreciated for their conservative and linear range, which gives Curvv an advantage for daily commuters. Mahindra, however, is pursuing performance and excitement, making its BE models more appropriate for drivers seeking speed with flair.
Features and Technology
In 2025, an electric SUV isn’t judged by how far it goes—it’s considered by how smart it feels inside. Both the Tata Curvv EV and Mahindra’s BE/XUV.e models are loaded with future-ready tech, but their approaches differ in style and substance.
The Tata Curvv EV is expected to carry over the tech suite seen in the new Nexon EV but on a more advanced scale. This also comprises a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver display, and voice-activated controls based on AI. Tata’s party trick is its Arcade EV platform, which makes the touchscreen an entertainment hub with built-in apps such as YouTube, Prime Video, and even gaming while stationary. Look for connected car features, OTA updates, a 360-degree camera, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and ambient lighting for a premium experience.
On the safety and smarts side, Curvv is expected to feature Level 2 ADAS, such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, auto emergency braking, and blind spot monitor, particularly on its highest trims.
Mahindra’s BE.05 and XUV.e8, though, are expected to set the bar even higher with their twin-screen arrangement: two huge horizontal screens for infotainment and instruments drawn from high-end EVs. The interface will be driven by Adrenox, Mahindra’s connected car ecosystem, with more than 70+ features such as remote operation, predictive maintenance, live vehicle tracking, and voice control using Alexa. Look for support for 5G connectivity, fast OTA updates, and an even gamer-style UI in harmony with the BE—05’s young styling.
Mahindra is also betting big on advanced driver-assist systems, with ADAS Level 2+ features and hardware that can be ready for future Level 3 autonomy. Wireless charging, drive modes customized to individual preferences, and biometric vehicle access are also said to be in the works.
Interior Space and Comfort
Within the cabin, Tata Curvv EV and Mahindra’s BE/XUV.e models seek to offer a premium, forward-thinking experience. Still, they appeal to somewhat different kinds of users in terms of practicality and comfort.
The Tata Curvv EV has a driver-focused, minimalist layout. Look for a minimalist dashboard with soft-touch finishes, narrow AC vents, and a floating touchscreen configuration. The flat floor, due to Gen 2 EV architecture, provides legroom for the rear seat passengers, while the coupe-style roofline, which slopes, is handled cleverly so that there is no compromise on headroom. The seats are likely to be comfortable, with ventilated front seats, a large rear bench with a useful recline angle, and sufficient support for long drives.
The Curvv’s boot capacity would be between 400 and 450 liters, making it capable of handling a weekend family outing. Cabin insulation, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof will contribute to the overall premium character. Curvv appears geared towards urban families who value comfort, looks, and utility in equal proportions.
Mahindra’s BE.05 and XUV.e8, in contrast, go for a bold and tech-heavy interior with chunky controls, contrasting materials, and a more rugged vibe. The BE.05, being slightly sportier, has a more cocooned cabin with a fighter-jet-style cockpit up front and driver-focused ergonomics. Rear seat space is decent, but the sloping roof may eat into headroom slightly for taller passengers.
The XUV.e8, on the other hand, being larger and more conventionally shaped, provides much more space, perfect for families. It is equipped with three-row seating, wider seats, and an emphasis on long-distance comfort, with amenities such as powered seats, multi-zone climate control, and generous boot space reaching nearly 500 liters (with the third row folded).
As a whole, family-friendliness:
- The Tata Curvv EV is ideal for nuclear families seeking style, comfort, and practicality within the city.
- The Mahindra XUV.e8 is better suited for larger families or road trippers, providing ample space and comfort for each row.
- The BE.05 tilts more towards young, tech-savvy couples or solo drivers who prioritize design and sportiness over sheer space.
So, for a family-first EV experience, XUV.e8 wins on size and practicality, and Curvv wins on smart space usage and refinement.
Price and Variants
In India’s price-sensitive EV space, pricing is paramount. Tata and Mahindra understand this, and their future electric SUVs are likely to aim for sweet spots in the Rs. 15–30 lakh bracket—but with very different approaches.
The Tata Curvv EV is likely to go on sale in the second half of 2025, with prices expected to begin around Rs. 16–18 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base model and rise to Rs. 22–23 lakh for the high-end long-range model. Tata has a reputation for competitive pricing, and with localization advantages and its self-developed EV platform, Curvv is positioned as a premium mid-size EV SUV that still prices below most international competition. Tata can provide multiple variants depending upon battery capacity (normal and long range), drivetrain (FWD or AWD), and feature packs.
Mahindra, however, is taking a slightly more premium approach, particularly with its BE.05 and XUV.e8 offerings. The BE.05 will be priced anywhere from Rs. 22–28 lakh, targeting younger, style- and performance-hungry customers. The XUV.e8, a three-row, larger SUV, will probably fetch Rs. 25–30 lakh, which puts it in the region of the likes of the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Ioniq 5.
Mahindra has priced its offering based on tech, size, and performance, whereas Tata targets value, efficiency, and reliability. For that matter, Mahindra’s upper-range specs (such as dual motors, larger batteries, and fast charging) are worth the premium, particularly for enthusiasts.
Value-for-Money Verdict:
- Tata Curvv EV: Has a more affordable entry point, improved bang-for-buck, and broader appeal for mainstream users.
- Mahindra BE/XUV.e series: More expensive but offers greater power, tech, and bold styling to those who are prepared to spend for it.
Charging and Battery Support
A good EV is not just about how far it can go—it’s also about how fast it can charge and how convenient it is to integrate into your lifestyle. Both Tata and Mahindra are gearing their next-gen EVs to match increasing expectations in this key area.
The Tata Curvv EV will employ the company’s proven Ziptron technology, which drives the Nexon and Tiago EVs. Ziptron has already shown to be dependable in Indian weather, with liquid-cooled batteries, IP67-rated protection, and fast-charging compatibility. Curvv EV will support DC fast charging of up to 50–60 kW, providing a 10–80% top-up in about 45–50 minutes. AC home charging (7.2 kW) will require 6–8 hours to charge fully. Tata’s expanding EZ Charge network and its partnership with third-party charging points render public charging increasingly convenient throughout urban India.
Conversely, Mahindra’s BE and XUV.e EVs are based on the INGLO platform, which is engineered to support faster charging. These models are designed to facilitate DC fast charging of up to 175 kW, which should provide 100 km of driving range in less than 10 minutes on compatible ultra-fast charging points, making them among the fastest-charging EVs in their class. Mahindra’s smart battery management system guarantees improved thermal management, optimized charging cycles, and extended battery life, even in extreme temperatures.
- Tata Curvv EV: Tested Ziptron technology, ubiquitous support, average but consistent fast charging—perfect for everyday city driving.
- Mahindra BE/XUV.e: Next-generation battery system with ultra-fast DC charging capability, more future-focused—but still developing the ecosystem.
Final Verdict
While the Indian EV war intensifies, Tata Curvv EV and Mahindra’s BE/XUV.e series embody two different philosophies of electric mobility—both aggressive but defined for very different types of motorists.
Tata Curvv EV – Pros & Cons
- Aggressive, value-led pricing
- Coupe-SUV styling that’s premium yet pragmatic
- Tested Ziptron tech with consistent performance
- Extensive charging network through Tata EZ Charge
- Deep after-sales trust is engineered into Nexon EV
- Not as powerful or performance-oriented as Mahindra’s BE.05
- Not as dramatic or futuristic in design as Mahindra’s angular concepts
- Likely restricted to front-wheel drive in low-end variants
Mahindra BE.05 / XUV.e8 – Pros & Cons
- Performance-oriented dual-motor setups with AWD options
- Segment-leading fast DC charging (up to 175 kW)
- Futuristic, show-stopping design language
- Premium cabin technology and feel
- The larger size (XUV.e8) is family- and road-trip-friendly
- Priced higher than the Tata Curvv likely
- Real-world charging infrastructure is still evolving
- BE.05 can compromise rear-seat comfort for design
If 2023–24 was the year of Tata pioneering India’s EV revolution, 2025 could be the year Mahindra comes back swinging hard. Tata Curvv will probably rule in affordability and reliability, but Mahindra hopes to win hearts with innovation, tech, and presence.
FAQs
Q1: When are they launching?
The Tata Curvv EV will probably launch sometime in late 2025, and the ICE version will be a couple of months before that.
Mahindra’s BE.05 is rumored to launch by October 2025, with the XUV.e8 potentially launching even sooner, in mid to late 2025.
Q2: Will Tata Curvv have an ICE version?
Yes. Tata is working on a petrol/diesel variant of the Curvv using the same coupe-SUV form factor. It will be out earlier than the EV, providing greater convenience for customers who are not yet ready to go electric.
Q3: Which offers higher resale value potential?
Tata EVs already have better resale value because of established reliability, a larger service base, and high brand confidence in the EV segment.