The big electric SUV gap is finally closing
I’m seeing the first real proof that Tata Motors is moving fast on its next flagship EV, and this one matters because it targets a very hot space in India right now. The camouflage is heavy, but the message is clear: Tata wants a 7-seater electric SUV that can go straight at Mahindra’s newest success story.
This is especially interesting because Mahindra has already grabbed early attention in the large electric SUV space. Tata still leads the wider EV conversation in India, but I can feel the pressure building as the brand prepares to expand its electric lineup beyond the Harrier EV and into an even bigger family-friendly format.
What the spy shots reveal
The test mule looks familiar from the outside, and that is exactly what makes it believable as a Safari EV. I can see the squared wheel arches, the flared stance, the roof rails, and the roof-mounted spoiler, all of which keep the SUV’s traditional shape intact. The side step is also visible, and that detail stands out because it is not part of the current ICE Safari.
The rear suspension setup appears to be a multi-link arrangement, similar to what Tata is using on the Harrier EV. That tells me the Safari EV is likely being engineered with ride comfort and battery packaging in mind, not just a simple conversion from the diesel version. Even under camouflage, I can already tell this will be a serious all-rounder rather than a cosmetic EV.
Why Tata is likely sharing hardware with Harrier EV
From a product strategy point of view, this move makes perfect sense to me. Tata is expected to use the Acti.ev+ platform, which should help keep costs in check while still giving the Safari EV the structure it needs for a proper three-row electric SUV. Shared architecture also means faster development and a more competitive price, which is crucial in a segment that is still forming in India.
The company is also expected to borrow the software stack and powertrain logic from the Harrier EV. That means the Safari EV should get Tata’s TIDAL software layer, iRA connectivity, OTA updates, a large touchscreen, and premium JBL audio with Dolby Atmos support. For Indian buyers, that mix of space and connected tech can be a powerful selling point.
| Likely Safari EV package | What it means |
|---|---|
| Acti.ev+ platform | Dedicated EV foundation with better packaging |
| 65 kWh and 75 kWh battery packs | Two range-focused options for different budgets |
| RWD and AWD variants | Choice between efficiency and stronger traction |
| Dual-motor AWD on larger battery | Higher performance for top-end trims |
| V2L and V2V charging | Useful real-world EV convenience features |
| 540-degree camera and ADAS | Premium tech for family and highway use |
Design changes I expect to see
The overall body shape is expected to stay close to the ICE Safari, and that is a smart choice in my view. Tata has already established the Safari as a recognizable road presence, so there is no need to reinvent the silhouette. What should change is the front and rear treatment, with a closed-off grille and EV-specific badging helping separate it from the diesel SUV.
I also expect refreshed bumpers and a slightly cleaner alloy wheel design to make it look more contemporary. The proportions should remain the same too, with the Safari EV likely staying close to the existing model’s size. For Indian buyers, that means the SUV should still feel like a proper road-filling flagship with real third-row appeal.
Range, performance and everyday use
The likely battery options are the same 65 kWh and 75 kWh packs seen on the Harrier EV, but I would not be surprised if the larger body brings a small hit to the claimed range. That would still leave it in a strong position, especially if Tata calibrates the SUV for efficient highway use and practical urban driving. The biggest draw here is not just range on paper, but the flexibility of choosing between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
For buyers who want a premium electric family SUV, that matters a lot. The dual-motor AWD setup should be reserved for the bigger battery variants, and that gives Tata room to create a clearly tiered lineup. In real terms, I see this SUV being built for Indian families who want long-distance comfort, city-friendly refinement, and a strong feature list without stepping into luxury-brand pricing.
Mahindra rivalry makes this launch even more important
The most obvious benchmark for this vehicle is Mahindra’s XEV 9S, which is already enjoying attention as a strong 7-seater electric SUV in the market. That rivalry gives Tata a very specific target. It is not enough for the Safari EV to simply exist; it has to feel desirable, well-equipped, and properly timed.
That is where Tata’s brand strength could help. The Safari name already carries familiarity, and Tata’s EV credibility in India gives this model an instant advantage in terms of awareness. If the company prices it smartly, around the expected ₹22 lakh starting point, I think it could become one of the most talked-about family EVs of 2026.
Why this spy sighting matters to me
I look at this mule as more than just another test vehicle on Indian roads. It tells me Tata is serious about filling the last major gap in its EV lineup, especially in the premium family segment. Once the Safari EV arrives, Tata’s electric range will look much more complete, and the brand’s challenge will shift from expansion to execution.
If the final product delivers the right mix of range, features, space and pricing, it could become a major talking point during the festive season launch window. For now, the camouflage hides plenty, but the direction is obvious to me: Tata is building a flagship electric SUV that is meant to matter, not just exist.
I’ll be watching this one closely, because the Safari EV could become one of the most important Indian EV launches of the year. If you follow Tata SUVs or electric family cars, keep your eyes on the next round of spy shots and be ready to compare it with Mahindra’s challenger as soon as more details break.
