Mahindra to launch petrol-powered Scorpio & XUV500

Mahindra has been in the SUV market for much more than a decade now; however, they have always been known for their diesel engines. In recent times though, the diesel engine has been under the radar for its high emissions and polluting capacity.

The petrol vs diesel debate has raged on for what looks like an eternity now, with both sides having their pros and cons. But as climate change becomes a larger issue with each passing day, governments across the world are being forced to take drastic steps to bring down their carbon footprint.

With recent developments pointing towards a probable ban, or at least some sort of a control element for diesel vehicles, Mahindra has chosen to expand its portfolio, and offer petrol variants for its high volume SUVs. The drive started with the KUV100 which is powered by petrol and diesel powertrains.

Mahindra has also stated that a diesel only approach may endanger its survival in the long run, and has thus decided to launch petrol variants for the Scorpio and the XUV500 as well. A specific launch date has not been revealed, and there are still no details regarding the engines, as they are still in the development stage.

It is a big step for Mahindra as it has always stuck to an all diesel lineup. The release of a petrol powertrain will help Mahindra not only by ensuring survival in the long run, but will also open up new possibilities and avenues. The move may open up newer markets as well.

The petrol engines are being developed in collaboration with SsangYong. Since the engines are still being worked upon, the launch could be pushed to the end of 2016. Mahindra has planned a Rs. 10,000 crore investment in capex, product development as well as investment in group companies for the next three years.