India’s premium electric SUV segment just received a significant upgrade. The Mahindra XEV 9S now comes with a brand-new Custom Drive Mode, bringing enhanced personalization, performance tuning, and intelligent energy optimization to the forefront of electric mobility.
With EV buyers increasingly demanding smarter software, adaptive performance, and real-time customization, Mahindra’s latest update positions the XEV 9S as a forward-thinking, tech-driven electric SUV.
Let’s explore how this new feature changes the driving experience and why it could be a game-changer in the premium EV segment.
What Is the New Custom Drive Mode?
The newly introduced Custom Drive Mode allows drivers to tailor multiple vehicle parameters according to personal driving preferences. Unlike fixed modes such as Eco, Normal, or Sport, this update enables a flexible configuration that blends performance, efficiency, and comfort.
Adjustable Parameters Include:
- Throttle response sensitivity
- Regenerative braking intensity
- Steering weight
- Acceleration mapping
- Energy consumption optimization
This level of control was previously limited to high-end luxury EVs, making this update a notable advancement in the Indian EV market.
Why Customization Matters in Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles operate differently from internal combustion cars. Instant torque delivery, regenerative braking systems, and battery management software significantly influence driving feel.
With the Custom Drive Mode in the XEV 9S:
- Urban drivers can prioritize efficiency
- Highway drivers can enhance performance
- Comfort-focused users can soften steering and throttle
- Enthusiasts can sharpen response for a sportier feel
This flexibility ensures that one vehicle can adapt to multiple driving environments — from crowded city streets to open highways.
Enhanced Performance Tuning
One of the biggest highlights of this update is its impact on performance behavior.
1. Optimized Throttle Response
Drivers can now control how aggressively the SUV responds to accelerator input. A softer response improves efficiency in traffic, while a sharper setting enhances overtaking performance.
2. Intelligent Regenerative Braking
Adjustable regen levels allow drivers to control how much energy is recovered when lifting off the accelerator. Higher regen improves range, while lower regen offers a smoother driving feel.
3. Steering Customization
Drivers can choose lighter steering for city maneuverability or firmer steering for high-speed confidence.
This combination enhances the overall driving experience, making the XEV 9S more adaptable than ever.
Real-World Impact on Driving Range
Battery efficiency is central to EV ownership satisfaction. The Custom Drive Mode update improves energy management by allowing drivers to prioritize efficiency when needed.
How It Helps:
- Reduced power draw in Eco-focused custom settings
- Better regen energy recovery
- Smart torque distribution
- Adaptive motor output control
By fine-tuning these variables, drivers can potentially extend real-world range — especially during urban commuting cycles.
This makes the update especially valuable for daily users concerned about range optimization.
Software-Driven EV Evolution
The Custom Drive Mode update also reflects a broader industry trend: software-defined vehicles.
Modern EVs rely heavily on intelligent software systems. By offering customizable performance settings, Mahindra strengthens its position in:
- Connected vehicle technology
- Smart EV innovation
- Over-the-air update capability
- Advanced digital cockpit experience
This approach enhances long-term ownership value, as software updates can improve vehicle functionality even years after purchase.
Interior Integration & Digital Interface
The new Custom Drive Mode is seamlessly integrated into the XEV 9S’s infotainment system.
Interface Features:
- Intuitive touchscreen controls
- Real-time performance feedback
- Energy flow visualization
- Battery usage analytics
- Easy mode switching
Drivers can create personalized driving profiles and switch between them instantly. This is particularly useful for families where multiple users drive the same vehicle.
How It Compares to Traditional Drive Modes
Most EVs offer fixed drive modes such as:
- Eco
- Normal
- Sport
While these presets are helpful, they limit personalization. The Custom Drive Mode eliminates that restriction.
Fixed Modes:
✔ Simple
✔ Pre-configured
✘ Limited personalization
Custom Mode:
✔ Fully adaptable
✔ Personalized efficiency-performance balance
✔ Future-ready software integration
This makes the XEV 9S more competitive against global EV brands entering India.
Premium EV Segment Implications
The Indian EV market is maturing rapidly. Buyers are no longer satisfied with just range and price — they expect:
- Advanced digital technology
- Personalized driving experience
- Intelligent energy management
- Luxury-level refinement
With this update, Mahindra positions the XEV 9S as a premium technology-focused electric SUV.
It appeals to:
- Urban professionals
- Tech-savvy buyers
- Early EV adopters
- Performance-conscious drivers
Charging & Energy Efficiency Synergy
The new Custom Drive Mode works in harmony with the SUV’s battery and charging system.
Benefits include:
- Improved battery efficiency
- Balanced energy consumption
- Optimized charging cycles
- Reduced long-term battery stress
By allowing drivers to fine-tune performance demands, the system indirectly supports healthier battery usage patterns — enhancing long-term durability.
Ownership Value & Resale Advantage
Software-driven updates increase perceived vehicle value. A feature like Custom Drive Mode adds:
- Enhanced driving satisfaction
- Technological edge over competitors
- Future-proof appeal
- Improved resale desirability
As EV buyers become more aware of software capabilities, features like this could influence purchase decisions significantly.
Competitive Landscape
The premium electric SUV segment in India is becoming increasingly competitive. Brands are focusing on:
- Long-range battery packs
- Advanced safety suites
- Digital connectivity
- Smart performance modes
By introducing a customizable drive experience, Mahindra differentiates the XEV 9S from traditional EV offerings that rely solely on hardware upgrades.
This strategic move may also pave the way for more advanced updates in the future, including AI-driven adaptive driving modes.
Who Benefits Most From This Update?
City Commuters
Can prioritize efficiency and smoother throttle control.
Highway Travelers
Can increase performance responsiveness for confident overtaking.
EV Enthusiasts
Can experiment with regenerative braking intensity and steering weight.
Families
Multiple driver profiles make it easy to personalize settings.
The Bigger Picture: Software Is the New Horsepower
The Custom Drive Mode update signals a shift in the EV industry. In electric vehicles, performance isn’t just about motor output — it’s about software intelligence.
By investing in adaptable software architecture, Mahindra ensures that the XEV 9S remains competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
The ability to enhance performance without changing hardware demonstrates how future EV upgrades will increasingly rely on digital innovation.
Final Verdict: A Smart Upgrade That Makes a Real Difference
The introduction of the Custom Drive Mode in the Mahindra XEV 9S marks a meaningful evolution in India’s premium electric SUV segment.
This update delivers:
- Greater driving personalization
- Improved energy efficiency
- Enhanced performance control
- Premium digital experience
- Stronger long-term ownership value
For buyers seeking a technologically advanced electric SUV that adapts to individual preferences, the XEV 9S now stands out even more.
As electric mobility continues to redefine the automotive landscape, updates like this show that the future of performance lies not just under the hood — but in intelligent software innovation.
The Mahindra XEV 9S isn’t just getting better — it’s getting smarter.