Mahindra Thar EV Spotted Testing: Design, Launch Timeline and More

Mahindra has started public road testing of its upcoming Thar EV, with a heavily camouflaged five door SUV spotted in India. The test vehicle closely follows the Vision T concept shown in August 2025.

The latest spy shots reveal key exterior and interior details, including its boxy design and upright stance. Mahindra has not confirmed the launch date, price, or technical specifications yet. The SUV is expected to become part of Mahindra's upcoming NU_IQ range, with its rollout planned from 2027. The Thar EV could arrive in 2028 or later.

Thar EV Design Stays Close to Vision T

The Thar EV keeps several styling cues from the Vision T concept. Its front gets a broad grille with vertically arranged elements and squared off headlamp housings.

The test SUV also features a flat bonnet, upright windscreen, and chunky front bumper. Large wheel arches give it a wide and rugged appearance. The side profile confirms a five door layout. It also gets a flat roof, upright pillars, and conventional side steps.

The test vehicle appears to use large wheels measuring around 19 or 20 inches. However, the exact size remains unconfirmed from the spy images.

Rear Design and Interior Details

The rear features an upright tailgate and a large rear window. Unlike the Thar.e and Vision T concepts, the test vehicle does not show an external spare wheel.

The Mahindra car could receive a tailgate mounted spare wheel. The rear lamps currently appear to be temporary testing units. Spy images also suggest independent rear suspension. This could mark a major change from the existing Thar family's rear axle setup.

The test vehicle also gets a digital instrument display and large grab handles near the A pillars. Most dashboard details remain hidden.

The Vision T concept used a portrait touchscreen and separate digital instrument display. Mahindra could carry some of these ideas into the production SUV.

Thar EV Launch Timeline and Rivals

Mahindra first revealed the Thar.e concept in August 2023. The Vision T followed in August 2025 with a more production focused design direction.

Mahindra's NU_IQ product rollout is scheduled to begin from 2027. However, the company has not confirmed a specific launch date for the Thar EV. The latest testing suggests a 2028 launch or later is possible.

Potential rivals could include upcoming electrified lifestyle SUVs from JSW Motors. The Chery iCAR V23 has also been spotted testing in India.

The Thar EV will therefore enter a growing segment of rugged looking electrified SUVs. Its final price, battery specifications, and range will decide its position against future rivals.The first public road sighting confirms that Mahindra is moving ahead with Thar EV development. The test vehicle retains the rugged shape shown by earlier concepts. 

However, buyers will need to wait for confirmed battery, range, performance, and pricing details. Mahindra's production plans should provide more clarity as testing progresses.

Car Junction Insights

I think the Thar EV could be one of Mahindra’s most interesting upcoming electric SUVs. The rugged design gives it a character that many EVs currently lack. I also like how closely it appears to follow the Vision T. For buyers, the real test will be its range, pricing, and everyday usability.

As the Mahindra Thar EV continues testing ahead of its launch, check out the upcoming cars in October 2026 to see which new models are set to make headlines this month.