Mahindra continues to set the bar higher with autonomous driving technology, having established a benchmark with the XUV700. The company has gone on to feature ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) in models such as the Thar Roxx, XEV 9e, BE 6, and now potentially the XUV3XO. Latest spy images of a highly modified XUV3XO test mule indicate Mahindra is developing an advanced iteration of its driver assistance package.
Spied with High-Tech Gear
The test mule itself is obviously not the electric XUV3XO, as indicated by the large exhaust pipe at the back. Interestingly, the car lacks both its front and rear bumpers. Attached to the roof is a custom mount with what looks to be be a camera usually employed by Tech Mahindra for Apple Maps mapping work.
Considering the rugged nature of the vehicle, some might even joke that Tech Mahindra has reused aging ICE XUV3XO test units for mapping purposes. But looks can be deceiving. A closer look shows that this test mule is fitted with five radar modules and a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) unit on the roof—indicating work on a more sophisticated ADAS system.
There is also a camera at the rear mounted on the windshield via a suction cup. This was seen in Bidadi, Bengaluru’s neighbor in Karnataka—where Bosch has its Indian operations. Rumors have been circulating since 2023 of a possible partnership between Bosch and Mahindra to create India-focused ADAS systems with localized algorithms.
What Might Be Around the Corner?
Although official information is limited, it’s possible that Mahindra is ready to launch next-generation autonomous driving technology. The positioning of five radar modules—one at the center of the front fascia, two under the headlamps, and two underneath the taillamps—indicates holistic front and rear protection. This configuration could facilitate the SUV to accommodate more advanced and more reliable ADAS features.
At launch, Mahindra can incorporate the LiDAR unit into the back camera assembly at the side of the IRVM (inside rearview mirror). The rear camera, currently externally mounted, will most probably be smoothly integrated into the body of the vehicle.
With this new ADAS suite, Mahindra appears set to provide an even more robust system better adapted to Indian driving conditions. Praised for putting safety first, Mahindra’s ongoing innovation here is a reflection of its desire to break new ground in the Indian automotive market.