Mahindra unveils Vision Thar.E concept

MAHINDRA has a second concept model at its Futurescape event in Cape Town, South Africa, in the form of the Vision Thar.E electric concept.

The Indian manufacturer says that as a pioneer of the SUV segment domestically, its battery electric Thar.E – which draws its name from the brand’s current Wrangler-styled off-roader – features one-of-a-kind modular construction and adaptable components position it as a standout in the segment.

With a five-door version of the Thar known to be in the pipeline, it is presumed the Vision Thar.E concept is a taste of things to come.

Mahindra stopped short of offering any solid details, however, simply saying the model is suited to any terrain, but did not offer specifics, instead referencing the concept’s design embellishments and styling as “key features”.

“(The) Vision Thar.e is a testament to innovation and a pioneering design philosophy that is uniquely Mahindra and distinctively global,” said Mahindra automotive sector president, Veejay Nakra.

“Thar.e caters to the adventurer in all of us, craving exploration without compromise. Aligned with the global movement towards responsible consumption, our focus on sustainable materials resonates with the broader shift towards being planet positive, ensuring that Thar.e is both timeless and timely.”

Mr Nakra pointed to key features including an “authentic off-road” ability which maintains “the tenacity and exploration spirit of the brand”; a uniquely crafted and formidable exterior with “crisp, geometric surfaces” that “embody the ‘explore the impossible’ ethos”; an interior that “blends minimalism with functionality” and which “focuses on the essentials of off-roading”; and “fabrics made of 50 per cent recycled PET” and “a commitment to uncoated recyclable plastics”.

“Creating Vision Thar.e was about embracing a future that’s bold and innovative. Our design forges a new path, standing as a testament to Mahindra's commitment to cutting-edge creativity and breakaway thinking,” explained Mahindra chief design officer, Pratap Bose.

“We have maintained the adventurous spirit and off-roading capability that is quintessentially Thar, but we have crafted a unique identity in the world of electric SUVs.

“This endeavor goes beyond creating another off-roader; it shapes a vision that represents a progressive step in automotive design, without losing sight of where we came from. Thar.e is our declaration of an exciting and responsible future.”

While Mahindra has not offered any idea of if or when the model will be produced, it says the Thar.E invites customers to experience the future of electric mobility while hinting that the model “reimagines a true icon”.

Whether the model is indeed the replacement to the brand’s long-serving Thar remains to be seen, but in naming it “the ultimate off-road SUV for the next generation”, we think it has all but let the cat out of the bag.