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How the Mahindra BE 6 Set a 0–200–0 kmph Record

Most performance tests are usually about speed, but few cars attempt a 0-200-0kmph run. It’s not just about outright acceleration. That we’re used to. Acceleration matters for sure but aerodynamics, stability at high speed and most importantly braking performance matter even more. Every system in the car must work together. Getting to 200kmph showcases capability and break back to 0 shows that the engineering is done right.

A search on Google for this or similar acceleration and braking tests will usually throw up supercar names. With the Mahindra BE 6, we set out to attempt this crazy record in what is essentially a family SUV. Just the fact that the BE 6 can pull this test off, doing multiple runs in the process, is a testament to its capability and safety on the road. When the run was complete, the result was clear. The BE 6 set the fastest 0–200–0kmph acceleration and braking run record by an electric vehicle.

But setting that record took preparation and careful planning.

A Special Record Calls for a Special Track

A special record = special location;

Our usual performance runs are simple — strap on the vbox, get to our usual closed test road and then run the tests. 0-100, 100-0, in-gear accelerations, etc. They are done one at a time, giving our test driver and the car breathing space in between each test. This record is different.

Accelerating to 200kmph is simple enough but requires a few critical things, key among them being a safe, legal space to do this. Obviously public roads are out of the question. Enter the Mahindra SUV Proving Track (MSPT) with its high-speed test track with parabolic banking and long straights, perfect for hitting these speeds safely and legally.

A test such as this stresses out many components all at once; being at the MSPT, Mahindra’s own engineers and technicians could ensure that the production-spec BE 6 was in top condition for the record run. And yes, this was a complete stock BE 6, with no special software or tunes made. The truck also has everything that’s needed to keep the BE 6 ready, be that safety checks or charging stations.

The SUV Behind the Record

The car behind the run, that brings us to the Mahindra BE 6. Making a car like the BE 6 took courage. The design looks bold and dramatic, almost like it escaped from a supercar concept sketchbook. Yet unlike a supercar this is accessible and affordable too!

The design is only part of the story. Under the body sits a completely new electric platform from Mahindra. It brings new technology and a fresh approach to electric performance for the brand.

That kind of ambition needs confidence in their abilities and engineering, and the guts to pull it off. This record proves that its good looks and capabilities aren’t just numbers and promises in a brochure. Its performance delivered.

Preparing for the Record

Attempt Setting Up for Precision

You’d think preparing a car for a run such as this would be dramatic but it’s quite the opposite. With a production car such as the BE 6 is simple. Double check the tyre pressures, ensure the battery is fully charged and that’s pretty much it.

Timing and GPS datalogging equipment was installed and tested to measure the run accurately. Cameras were mounted inside and outside the car to capture the attempt.

Planning the Perfect Record Run

We also got some vital advice from the Senior Lead Engineer - Vehicle Development at Mahindra, someone who knows this track like the back of his hand; tips on how to tackle banking to maximise speed and get the best possible timing.

With the banking we could maintain high speeds, but we needed to plan a proper starting point for the run. The main challenge was to ensure that we were hitting 200kmph on the straights where we could apply the brakes. Finally, after many attempts we found a spot which worked. The initial acceleration and the braking were done on one straight, we then entered the banking at 150kmph, continued accelerating to 190kmph through the banking and then hit 200kmph on the next straight before slamming on the brakes.

When all the checks were complete, it was time for the real attempt.

The Record Run

Accelerating Through the Banking

With all the possibilities calculated, we lined up at the start line for the record attempt. And the countdown started. Three, two, one, GO!

Accelerating down the back straight was simple, first past 100kmph and still accelerating hard towards the banking. I entered the banking at 150kmph, fast for any car and even more challenging because we had to keep the pedal floored.

The banking is designed to be neutral at 150kmph, which means very little steering input is needed. But with us having to accelerate through the 43.7-degree parabolic banking, I had to keep making quite a bit of steering inputs to keep the car at the centre of the lane, with the guard rail just feet away in the corner of my right eye. Challenging and engaging to say the least.

Once off the banking I lined up as straight as possible and watched the speedometer. Climbing to 195, 198… 200!

From 200 kmph to a Complete Stop

And then the audible beep from the vbox signalled that we had reached a true GPS 200kmph speed (all cars have a slight speedometer error engineered into them). And I had to slam on the brakes!

The BE 6 braked cool and calm. The ABS and ESP systems did their job quite unremarkably. So smooth was this ‘dramatic’ event that our camera guys were asking for more drama. All they got was a little tyre noise, a slight nosedive and a clean stop.

100 per cent braking from 200kmph to zero is very rarely done in any car. Mostly because most cars will never hit this speed in the real world. The most intense braking that cars will ever see and at similar speeds is at racetracks, at the end of a straight. And even then, you brake at the corner speed and continue driving. It’s the most stress braking components will ever see in their lifetime. Coming to a stop means there is no time to celebrate. Wait for a second to let the data save and then start moving again to get the brakes to cool down. And after a cool down lap we looked at the data.

A New Record in 41.67 Seconds

The final number - 41.67 seconds. That’s how long it took for a 0-200-0kmph acceleration and braking run. A new record for a production electric vehicle, that’s now certified by the India Book of Records, etching the BE 6’s name in the history books. And we are proud to be a part of this moment in history.

More Than Just a Speed Record

What this record shows, this record is not only about speed. It shows what a modern electric SUV can do when pushed to its limits. It shows how acceleration, stability and braking must work together. BE 6 proved that electric vehicles can deliver strong performance and strong control at the same time. Because true performance is not just about how fast a car goes. It is about how well the entire machine works when everything is pushed to the edge.

A testament to Mahindra’s design, engineering, guts and trust.