Mahindra Thar.e concept is an all-electric Wrangler lookalike

Indian automaker Mahindra has unveiled its Vision Thar.e electric SUV concept that's a melange of Suzuki Jimny, Toyota FJ Cruiser and Jeep Wrangler.

The off-roading concept was unveiled by Mahindra alongside the Global Pik Up in Cape Town, South Africa and represents the company’s global ambitions in electric mobility.

Details are scarce for the Mahindra Vision Thar.e with only one computer rendering published, but the company states it adopts a new ground-up 'Inglo' EV platform with modular swappable components and a “high-performance” all-wheel drive powertrain.

The interior is supposedly minimalistic with a central pivoting display, grab handles, and fabrics made of 50 per cent recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

2

Judging from the rendering, it’s a significant departure from the current design language of Mahindra’s Scorpio and XUV700 SUVs.

Its compact body and huge off-road tyres give it raised-up proportions like a lifted Suzuki Jimny. There's a futuristic blacked-out front mask akin to Toyota's Compact Cruiser concept and glass behind the C-pillar reminiscent of the off-sale FJ Cruiser.

The four doors also have Wrangler-inspired exposed hinges with camera-based wing mirrors, and there are orange accents with new Mahindra logo lettering.

The Indian carmaker also announced the XUV.e8, the first of four electric SUV models planned, will debut overseas in December 2024. This family-orientated medium SUV is mooted for an Australian launch around the same time.

While lifestyle-focused car brands have traditionally been prioritising diesel power, electric offerings are starting to emerge for owners to traverse terrains in silence with effortless instant torque.

KG Mobility (formerly SsangYong) has committed to releasing an electric ute and two SUVs by 2025, the Jeep Recon EV will soon debut, the Ineos Grenadier will get a battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell version, and Toyota is experimenting with an electric HiLux.