Does the XUV400’s single speed transmission limit highway driving?

Ashutosh on 02 January 2025 05:54
Like many electric vehicles, the Mahindra XUV400 also runs on a single speed transmission. This is typical in EVs, where it presents benefits of simplicity and efficiency, but some potential buyers have questioned whether it is suited to highway driving. The question is whether the single speed setup can deliver the same high speed performance and efficiency as in ICE vehicles with multi speed transmissions. It’s argued that it restricts top end performance and efficiency at highway speeds, while others contend that the EV powertrain doesn’t need multiple gears. Discussion of this often includes comparisons to ICE vehicles, debates about how acceleration feels at different speeds, and considerations over the effect on long distance driving comfort and efficiency.
Shobhit on 22 November 2024 07:03
Not at all! One of the best things about EVs is the single speed transmission. It accelerates smoothly, continuously, without any gear shifting. Highway cruising is perfect.

Akshat on 29 November 2024 07:29
I do think it's a limitation. The power tapers off at higher speeds. It would have been great to have a two speed gearbox (as in some premium EVs) to make it more highway capable.

Raj on 04 December 2024 09:17
It’s only a limitation if you’re expecting it to drive like an ICE car. If you get used to the EV driving style the single speed transmission feels natural and efficient.

Sucheta on 13 December 2024 08:06
I was a bit skeptical, but once I test drove the XUV400 on the highway, I’m convinced. Despite no gears, the instant torque makes up for that at higher speeds.

Gazal on 16 December 2024 02:56
It's definitely a compromise. It’s fine for most driving, but you do notice the difference on long highway stretches and when you are trying to overtake on a higher speed.

Anika on 25 December 2024 11:48
People overthink this. On the highway, the XUV400 has more than enough power. The single speed transmission not only keeps things simple and reliable, but crucial for a mass market EV.

Kuldeep on 29 December 2024 14:23
In fact, I like the single speed set up the best. Driving on long trips is much easier. There is no gear change to worry about or be in the wrong gear.

Gazal on 31 December 2024 23:37
It's a trade-off. It's simple, you lose some high speed efficiency, but you gain low speed performance. I believe it is the right choice for most Indian driving conditions.


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