Dear Sir, I plan to travel 1,200 to 1,500 km every month and am therefore considering the Tata Harrier EV. However, I was also interested in the XUV700, but some car mechanics said that it may start having mechanical issues after 50,000–70,000 km. What is your advice on the long-term maintenance cost of the diesel XUV700, and what are your views on the Harrier EV? Thanks.

After 50,000 to 70,000 km, it’s understandable for any vehicle to start showing some issues due to natural wear and tear. However, the severity of these issues can be greatly reduced by following the recommended service schedule, using only recommended parts and supplements, and handling the vehicle with care.

Mahindra has a fairly wide service network, though owners have reported mixed experiences with service quality. The known issues mainly relate to electronics, infotainment, and the front suspension. Mahindra has also conducted several recalls to fix faulty units.

Overall, yes, an EV will have lower maintenance costs than an ICE vehicle since it has fewer moving components and less wear and tear. The Harrier EV is a good product, especially in terms of space and comfort. However, you should also consider the Mahindra XEV 9e as an alternative.