At its Freedom_Nu event held on 15 August 2025, Mahindra introduced its highly anticipated new vehicle architecture: the NU_IQ platform. This versatile, monocoque-based platform is engineered to underpin four upcoming SUVs. The announcement marks a major step forward for Mahindra, promising enhanced design flexibility, performance, and safety across ICE (internal combustion engine), EV (electric vehicle), and multi-powertrain configurations.
Platform Overview
The NU_IQ platform is a modern monocoque structure that supports a wide range of drivetrain formats. Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations are feasible. Furthermore, the platform is capable of accommodating internal combustion engines as well as electric powertrains, making it truly multi-powertrain compatible. This flexibility allows Mahindra to streamline production while offering diverse propulsion options to customers.
Mahindra confirmed that the platform will serve as the foundation for four new SUVs that were unveiled during the event in production-ready forms.
Summary Table
Feature / Model |
Details |
|---|---|
Platform Name |
NU_IQ |
Platform Type |
Monocoque |
Drive Configurations |
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) |
Powertrain Compatibility |
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Vehicle (EV) |
Vehicle Length Range |
Approximately 3.9 m to 4.3 m |
Wheelbase |
2.65 m (consistent across all models) |
Floor Layout |
Flat floor in both ICE and EV versions |
Ground Clearance |
Up to 227 mm |
Safety & Rigidity |
Enhanced structural integrity and better crash safety through monocoque construction |
SUV Models Previewed |
Vision S (next-gen Scorpio), Vision X (next-gen XUV3XO / XUV500), Vision T (Thar), Vision SXT (Thar Roxx) |
Official Link |
[Mahindra Freedom_Nu Event – Official Site] (Add link here when available) |
Dimensions and Cabin Space
Vehicles built on the NU_IQ platform will measure between approximately 3.9 metres and 4.3 metres in overall length. This range covers both sub-compact and compact SUV categories. One standout feature is the wheelbase, which remains constant at 2.65 metres across all four models. This standardized wheelbase allows for maximized interior space, delivering a noticeably roomy cabin, especially for vehicles in their respective segments.
Flat-Floor Design and AWD Capability
A unique attribute of the NU_IQ architecture is its flat-floor design, implemented in both internal combustion models and EVs. This indicates that all four SUVs may benefit from a rear-mounted electric motor setup, which helps enable AWD operation without compromising interior layout or space. A flat floor also enhances comfort and ease of movement inside the vehicle.
Safety and Structural Rigidity
Mahindra emphasized that the monocoque construction materially enhances structural rigidity and crash safety performance. Historically, Mahindra has had to balance the robustness of ladder-frame SUVs with the desire for improved crash test scores. By shifting to monocoque architecture, the company aims to deliver improved safety credentials without sacrificing iconic SUV traits.
Ground Clearance
The new platform supports up to 227 mm of ground clearance, which is exceptionally high for sub-compact and compact SUVs. This generous clearance further boosts the capability and rugged appeal of the vehicles.
Platform Vision: Faster, Lighter, More Spacious
Mahindra’s broader vision for the NU_IQ platform is to deliver SUVs that retain familiar nameplates and rugged appeal while being lighter, faster, and roomier than their predecessors. This signals a strategic shift: conserving brand heritage while modernizing performance, efficiency, and cabin experience.
Introduced SUVs Based on NU_IQ
The four SUVs previewed during the Freedom_Nu event are:
-
Vision S (to become the next-generation Scorpio)
-
Vision X (spawn the new-generation XUV3XO and XUV500)
-
Vision T (representing a new iteration of the Thar)
-
Vision SXT (a further evolution of the Thar Roxx)
Each of these concepts is based on the NU_IQ platform and will benefit from its flexibility, safety, comfort, and capability.
FAQs
1. What is the NU_IQ platform?
A. NU_IQ is a new monocoque vehicle platform revealed by Mahindra on 15 August 2025. Designed to support both ICE and electric powertrains, it offers front- and all-wheel drive compatibility, space-efficient dimensions, and enhanced safety.
2. Which types of powertrains will the NU_IQ platform support?
A. The platform is multi-powertrain compatible, supporting both traditional internal combustion engines and electric vehicle setups.
3. What SUV models will be built on the NU_IQ platform?
A. Mahindra previewed four SUVs during the event:
-
Vision S (next-generation Scorpio)
-
Vision X (next-gen XUV3XO / XUV500)
-
Vision T (new Thar)
-
Vision SXT (Thar Roxx successor)
4. What are the key dimensional characteristics of NU_IQ-based vehicles?
A. They will measure between 3.9 and 4.3 metres in length, with a uniform wheelbase of 2.65 metres, delivering generous cabin space for their segments.
5. Why is the flat-floor design important?
A. The flat floor, present in both ICE and EV models, indicates flexibility in layout especially supportive of AWD via rear electric motors and enhances interior usability and comfort.
6. What does the switch to monocoque architecture mean for safety?
A. Monocoque construction greatly improves structural rigidity and crash performance compared to traditional ladder-frame SUV platforms, allowing Mahindra to achieve better safety ratings.
7. Is there significant ground clearance?
A. Yes vehicles based on NU_IQ will offer up to 227 mm of ground clearance, high for their size class, adding to their rugged utility.
8. Will these new SUVs be lighter and faster?
A. Mahindra positions the new NU_IQ-based SUVs as lighter, quicker, and more spacious than their predecessors, while retaining recognizable SUV design and character.
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