Not All EVs Are Equal: Purpose-Built Platforms Outperform Adapted Designs

As the Indian electric vehicle market accelerates, a growing debate centers on the design philosophy behind today’s EVs. While automakers like Tata and Hyundai have launched electric versions of their popular models, these vehicles often inherit much of their internal combustion engine (ICE) DNA. In contrast, purpose-built EVs—such as MG’s Windsor and Mahindra’s BE range—are designed from the ground up using a skateboard platform, offering distinct advantages in performance, safety, and interior space.

A Missed Opportunity with Adapted Designs

Tata’s EVs and Hyundai’s Creta EV, despite their appeal and aggressive marketing, are essentially modified versions of their ICE counterparts. These vehicles are based on platforms that were initially developed for petrol or diesel engines. Although this strategy allows for a quicker market entry and leverages existing production lines, it comes with inherent limitations. The adapted designs often compromise on factors like weight distribution, interior packaging, and overall efficiency compared to vehicles that are designed as electric from inception.

Hyundai’s Creta EV, for instance, retains many design elements from the conventional Creta. While it features some EV-specific modifications—such as a closed-off grille and updated lighting—the core architecture remains largely unchanged. Similarly, Tata’s EV offerings are built on platforms originally intended for ICE vehicles, which means they struggle to fully exploit the advantages of electric propulsion systems.

The Advantages of Purpose-Built EV Platforms

In contrast, purpose-built EVs like MG’s Windsor and Mahindra’s BE range are engineered from the ground up on skateboard platforms. This design integrates the battery pack into the vehicle’s floor, leading to a lower center of gravity, improved weight distribution, and maximized interior space. These benefits translate into better handling, enhanced ride comfort, and increased safety during collisions.

The skateboard platform approach not only optimizes the vehicle’s structural integrity but also provides flexibility in cabin design. Without the need to accommodate a bulky engine compartment, manufacturers can create more spacious interiors and innovative storage solutions. This design philosophy has allowed both MG and Mahindra to position their EVs as premium offerings in the market, addressing the evolving needs of Indian consumers who demand both performance and comfort.

Real-World Implications

For everyday drivers in Bengaluru and beyond, the differences in design can have significant implications. Purpose-built EVs typically deliver a smoother and more responsive driving experience due to superior weight distribution. The lower center of gravity reduces body roll during cornering, enhancing overall safety and stability. Moreover, improved interior space ensures a more comfortable ride for passengers—an important consideration on India’s often challenging road conditions.

Industry Reactions and Future Outlook

Automotive experts note that while the adapted EV models have played a crucial role in jumpstarting India’s transition to electric mobility, the future may well favor purpose-built designs. Industry analysts expect that as technology matures, more manufacturers will invest in dedicated EV architectures to remain competitive.

This shift may also prompt Tata and Hyundai to revisit their EV strategies. As the market matures and government incentives continue to drive EV adoption, consumers are likely to gravitate toward vehicles that offer tangible benefits in efficiency, performance, and safety. The rise of purpose-built EVs could push traditional manufacturers to accelerate their transition from adapted designs to fully optimized electric platforms.

In summary, while Tata EVs and Hyundai’s Creta EV have contributed to making electric vehicles more accessible in India, they are inherently limited by their ICE-derived platforms. Purpose-built EVs like MG’s Windsor and Mahindra’s BE range demonstrate that starting from scratch on a skateboard platform can yield superior performance, safety, and interior comfort. As the EV market in India continues to expand, automakers that invest in ground-up electric designs are likely to lead the way in innovation and consumer satisfaction.

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