India's largest SUV manufacturer, Mahindra & Mahindra, is aggressively integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its automotive operations—from manufacturing floors to customer service—to carve out a competitive edge against global electric vehicle giants like Tesla and China's BYD.
AI Transforming Mahindra’s Operations
Rucha Nanavati, Chief Digital Transformation Officer of Mahindra’s Automotive Division, highlighted how AI is revolutionizing the company’s workflows:
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In Manufacturing: AI-driven predictive maintenance, real-time production analytics, and quality inspection systems enhance efficiency and reduce downtime.
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In Research and Development: AI accelerates the vehicle design and development process through advanced data analytics.
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In Customer Experience: AI is improving product configuration, targeted marketing, and customer engagement post-sale.
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In Service: AI-powered diagnostics and repair management speed up service center workflows.
MAIA Platform and Smart Driving Features
Mahindra's proprietary AI platform, MAIA (Mahindra AI Architecture), is tailored specifically for Indian road conditions. It gathers data from multiple cameras and radar sensors to deliver enhanced safety and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features in upcoming electric SUVs. This platform aims to provide intelligent, road-compliant driving support—an important step toward smart mobility tailored to local needs.
EV Growth and Market Position
Mahindra’s electric SUV models, the BE 6 and XUV 9e, are driving rapid growth. In the first half of 2025, these models sold over 19,000 units, doubling Mahindra’s electric vehicle market share to 17% in India. This places Mahindra as a strong contender behind Tata Motors and MG Motor within the country's EV landscape.
Outlook
By embedding AI into every facet of its automotive ecosystem and developing advanced smart driving technologies, Mahindra is positioning itself to challenge major international players like Tesla and BYD—not just in electric mobility but also in cutting-edge automotive technology. This strategic focus on AI-enabled innovation marks Mahindra’s commitment to lead India’s electric vehicle revolution with homegrown expertise and technology.
