Mahindra has released an official statement following a recent fire incident involving its electric SUV, the BE 6. The incident took place near Gulaothi in Uttar Pradesh and was captured in a video that later surfaced on social media. The footage shows a red BE 6 engulfed in flames on what appears to be a highway. Thankfully, Mahindra has confirmed that all occupants of the vehicle are safe and no injuries were reported.
According to the automaker, the fire was not caused by the battery or electric motor. Instead, Mahindra’s investigation points to a deflated rear right tyre as the main reason behind the incident. The company stated that the vehicle continued to be driven for over 10 minutes at speeds of up to 60kph despite multiple warnings related to tyre pressure and rising tyre temperature.
Mahindra explained that during this time, the SUV’s onboard safety systems functioned as designed. Features such as traction control and stability control were activated repeatedly to manage wheel spin caused by the deflated tyre. As a precautionary step, the system electronically limited the vehicle’s speed before eventually shutting down the drive system completely, bringing the BE 6 to a stop.
The company added that the fire was the result of excessive heat generated by friction between the deflated tyre and the road surface. Importantly, Mahindra clarified that the high-voltage battery pack remained intact and fully functional despite being exposed to intense external heat. Battery health checks and cell voltage readings were found to be within normal limits, and the electric motor was also reported to be unaffected.
While Mahindra has not disclosed the exact variant involved, the BE 6 is currently available with 59kWh and 79kWh battery pack options. Prices for the electric SUV range from Rs 19.65 lakh to Rs 27.65 lakh (ex-showroom).
