Mahindra Veero spotlights chassis innovations and robust underpinnings. The advancement in the underpinning is significant, writes Upendra Kasbekar.
The Veero marks a significant advancement in commercial vehicle chassis design. It spotlights chassis innovations and robust underpinnings. Veejay Nakra, President of Automotive Division at Mahindra & Mahindra, highlighted the critical aspects of the platform, emphasising its rugged construction, the materials utilised in the built, and the advanced technology that can deliver many offsprings.
The foundation
A vehicle’s chassis forms the very foundation upon which every other component is built. In commercial vehicles, where demands on durability and load-bearing are significantly higher than in passenger vehicles, a robust chassis is crucial. The Mahindra Veero with the first offspring as the Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) in the under 3.5-tonne segment has got it going for itself. M&M has opted for a chassis made of High-Strength Steel (HSS), with 62 per cent HSS compared to the low grade materials often used by competitors in this segment. This makes the Veero’s frame exceptionally resilient, capable of withstanding both high payloads and the daily stresses encountered on rough and uneven terrain.
The use of HSS not only increases durability but also ensures enhanced safety and stability for the vehicle. By reinforcing the structural integrity, Mahindra has created a product with superior torsional and bending stiffness, which translates into better load handling, enhanced stability, and reduced wear and tear over time. The chassis stiffness has been engineered to be double that of the competition, a significant improvement that ensures the vehicle remains stable even under challenging operating conditions.“Our goal is to create a platform with multiple offerings that meet diverse customer needs without requiring trade-offs. We’ve identified that many customers in this segment face challenges, and we believe it’s our responsibility as leaders to think ahead and develop solutions that truly address these pain points,” Nakra reiterated.
Load handling and stability
Veero’s chassis is designed with both bending and torsional stiffness in mind, allowing it to handle loads more effectively while maintaining a smooth, comfortable ride. Bending stiffness is essential for maintaining the chassis structure under weight loads, while torsional stiffness ensures the vehicle remains stable during turns or when navigating uneven surfaces. This stiffness also contributes to a lower rate of frame deformation, which means that the Veero can operate effectively under heavy loads without compromising the structural integrity. Veero is a more capable and reliable choice for heavy-duty operations, allowing businesses to maximise productivity while minimising the risk of breakdowns or structural issues as per company claims.”Our focus on structural stability and fuel efficiency means that operators benefit significantly from reduced maintenance costs and exceptional fuel savings up to 18 per cent better than nearest competitors. We’re revolutionising the CV market with a versatile platform offering multiple wheelbases and cargo lengths, ensuring adaptability for urban and rural environments,” stated R Velusamy, President of Automotive Technology and Product Development.
Suspension setup
The suspension setup is designed to distribute weight evenly across the chassis, enhancing stability and ride quality by featuring a front and rear overslung semi-elliptical multi-leaf suspension. The payload capacity is often a determining factor for buyers. By employing a multi-leaf suspension, Mahindra has made it possible to absorb shocks and vibrations more effectively, reducing the overall impact on both the chassis and the driver. This feature is particularly important on Indian roads, where uneven surfaces are commonplace and the ability to absorb these irregularities is a key factor in ensuring both driver comfort and vehicle longevity.
Integrated cargo body design
Mahindra has engineered the Veero’s cargo body from the beginning as an integral part of the vehicle’s architecture. With payload capacities reaching up to 6.6-tonne (6,600 kg). The Veero’s cargo body makes use of HSS for about 85 per cent of its construction, lending it a sturdy, reliable frame that withstands the pressures of heavy payloads while minimising weight.
Advanced engine mounting
By incorporating a carefully engineered engine mounting system and a chassis design that minimises seat vertical acceleration, Mahindra has achieved a 25 per cent reduction in seat-level vibration compared to competitor vehicles.
Variants and specifications
The Mahindra Veero emerges as a versatile contender in the less than 3.5-tonne LCV segment, designed to meet the diverse needs of forward-thinking entrepreneurs. Available in three distinct variants V2, V4, and V6 the Veero caters to varying business requirements through a combination of cargo capacities, load deck configurations, and fuel options. With an emphasis on innovation, Mahindra aims to redefine expectations in the LCV market, leveraging its extensive experience of over two decades to offer solutions that genuinely address customer challenges.
The V2 variant, designed for value-conscious customers, offers a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 2.9-tonne, making it suitable for fleet owners and individuals alike. This variant features a 1.5-litre engine delivering a power output of 80 hp at 3,500 rpm and a peak torque of 210 Nm within a range of 1,400-2,600 rpm. Priced at Rs.7.99 lakhs (Ex-showroom), escalating to approximately Rs.8.49 lakh on the road in Mumbai, the V2 is tailored for those needing a reliable vehicle without compromising on essential comfort features. For instance, it includes flat-fold seating for enhanced cabin comfort, convenient grab handles for easy access, and a 12V socket for device charging, making it ideal for everyday use.
The V4 variant caters to customers seeking a balance of comfort and functionality, featuring a GVW of 3.08-tonne and a payload capacity of 1.6-tonne. It shares the same powertrain as the V2 but adds premium features such as climate control and fast-charging USB Type-C ports. With a starting price of Rs.8.99 lakhs (Ex-showroom), and approximately Rs.8.56 lakhs on-road in Mumbai, the V4 provides added value through improved comfort and technology, appealing to a broader customer base.
At the premium end, the V6 variant caters to high-demand operations, featuring a GVW of 3.1-tonne and a payload capacity of 1.6 tonnes. Priced at Rs.9.56 lakhs (Ex-showroom), which translates to about Rs.9.62 lakhs on-road, the V6 is also powered by the BSVI mDI three-cylinder diesel engine, producing 80 hp and 210 Nm of torque. This variant is designed for businesses in e-commerce and other sectors requiring reliability.
Fuel options and efficiency
The Veero platform showcases Mahindra’s commitment to multi-energy versatility, offering diesel and CNG fuel options. The diesel variant achieves an impressive fuel efficiency of 18.4 kmpl, while the CNG variant delivers 19.2 km/kg as per claims. This performance is vital for fleet operators, particularly in a market with fluctuating fuel prices. Additionally, the vehicle is engineered for lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), boasting a service interval of 20,000 kilometres and an innovative policy of no labour charges until the vehicle reaches 70,000 kilometres, significantly reducing operating costs. This translates into savings of up to 46 per cent lower labour charges compared to competitors. Going forward, expect the Veero platform to deliver offsprings. ACI
