Electric vehicles are often questioned for their real-world usability on long road trips, especially in India where charging infrastructure is still evolving. To put those doubts to rest, auto journalist Amit Dwivedi took Mahindra’s flagship electric SUV, the XUV 9e (7-seater), on an ambitious 2,200–2,300 km round trip from Ghaziabad to Jaisalmer, covering highways, deserts, foggy roads, and even mild off-road terrain.
The objective was simple: Can an electric SUV replace petrol and diesel for long-distance family travel?
Trip Overview: Distance, Planning & Purpose
- Route: Ghaziabad – Kishangarh – Jodhpur – Pokhran – Jaisalmer – Sam Dunes – Longewala – Tanot Mata – Bikaner – Jhunjhunu – Ghaziabad
- Total Distance: ~2,300 km
- Vehicle: Mahindra XUV 9e (79 kWh battery, top variant)
- Purpose: Real-world range test, charging feasibility, comfort, and off-road capability
The vehicle started its journey with a full charge in Ghaziabad, with charging stops planned roughly every 350–400 km to avoid range anxiety.
Comfort & Practicality: A True Family EV
The XUV 9e proved to be a comfortable long-distance cruiser, especially for families.
- Seating: 7 passengers (2 adults front, 3 adults/teens in second row, 2 children in third row)
- Third Row: Suitable for children or short-distance adult travel
- Boot Space: Managed well thanks to the front trunk (frunk) and usable rear space even with the third row up
- Rear Comfort: AC vents, blower control, USB ports, and a 12V socket in the third row
For children, the infotainment system with YouTube and entertainment apps was a big highlight, making long hours on the road easier.
Driving Experience: Suspension, Power & ADAS
- Power Output: ~286 hp
- Torque: 380 Nm
- Suspension: Excellent, absorbs rough roads, unexpected speed breakers, and uneven surfaces without discomfort
- Highway Stability: Very confident, even on wide stretches like the Bharatmala highways
The XUV 9e’s ADAS system impressed the most during early morning foggy drives. With cruise control engaged:
- Lane markings were read accurately
- Speed adjusted automatically for vehicles ahead
- Emergency braking worked reliably when needed
The automatic high-beam headlights were another standout feature, switching between high and low beam seamlessly, making night driving stress-free.
Charging Infrastructure: Reality Check from the Ground
Amit relied entirely on DC fast charging during the trip.
What Worked Well
- Adani Power chargers at Pokhran and Sam Dunes (even in the middle of the desert!)
- 120 kW chargers that topped up the car quickly during meal breaks
- Google Maps proved more reliable than many charging apps for discovering hidden chargers
What Didn’t
- Some Jio-BP chargers were slow or non-functional
- One Adani charger in Bikaner showed “live” on the app but did not work
- Maruti Nexa chargers were present but not publicly accessible
Key takeaway: Charging infrastructure exists, but information accuracy is inconsistent. A unified national charging platform is urgently needed
Range & Efficiency: Real-World Numbers
- Average Efficiency: ~6 km per kWh
- Practical Range:
- Safe range: 400 km
- Maximum achievable: 470–480 km (with careful driving)
- Energy Used: ~350 kWh over the entire trip
Amit avoided pushing the battery below 3–4% and recommends charging around the 400 km mark for peace of mind.
Off-Road & Desert Experience
Although the XUV 9e is not a hardcore off-roader, it handled sand dunes, rough desert tracks, and broken roads surprisingly well during the Mahindra Adventure event near Sam Dunes and Longewala.
- Maintained pace with Thar 4×4, Scorpio, and other SUVs
- Excellent traction management
- No underbody or performance issues
This proved that electric SUVs can handle light off-roading and adventure travel, within reasonable limits.
Cost of the Entire Trip
- Total Fast Charging Cost: ~₹8,000
- If charged mostly at home: ₹2,400–₹2,600
- Delhi–Jaisalmer round trip cost: ~₹5,600 (fast charging)
⚠️ Important advice:
Electric vehicles are most economical only if you charge primarily at home. Depending solely on fast chargers is expensive and affects battery health.
Verdict: Is the Mahindra XUV 9e Worth It?
✅ Yes, if you plan smartly.
- Long-distance EV travel in India is possible
- Requires planning, patience, and realistic expectations
- Charging anxiety reduces drastically with experience
If you’re looking for a 7-seater electric SUV capable of:
- 400+ km real-world range
- Comfortable family travel
- Occasional adventure trips
- Lower running costs (with home charging)
👉 The Mahindra XUV 9e is currently the most capable option in its segment, alongside rivals like BYD eMax 7.
Final Thought
Electric mobility is still a journey of patience—but with vehicles like the XUV 9e, the future feels closer than ever. Amit Dwivedi’s Jaisalmer road trip proves that EVs are no longer limited to city commutes—they’re ready for India’s highways, deserts, and dreams.
