The electric vehicle (EV) movement in India is gaining serious momentum. As adoption surges, it’s no longer just about sleek exteriors or top speeds — what really defines an EV’s potential is the platform it’s built on. Think of it as the foundation of the electric revolution.
Unlike conventional vehicles that revolve around engines and transmissions, electric vehicles depend on the synergy between the battery system, motor, and integrated chassis design. This is where the EV platform, often called the “skateboard architecture”, comes into play.
An EV platform is a modular, scalable base that houses the battery pack, motors, and essential electronics. This flat, unified structure gives automakers the flexibility to design multiple types of EVs — hatchbacks, SUVs, sedans — on the same architecture. The benefits? Lower production costs, enhanced efficiency, and better use of interior space.
Let’s take a deep dive into the best EV platforms currently available in India.
1. BYD: e-Platform 3.0 Evo
BYD’s e-Platform 3.0 Evo is one of the most advanced EV architectures in the world. It’s engineered for safety, speed, and efficiency.
Highlights:
- 1,000V system supporting ultra-fast charging.
- Cell-to-Body (CTB) integration for enhanced structural rigidity.
- 12-in-1 drive system for compactness and performance.
- Intelligent heat pump optimizing range across climates.
BYD’s technology-first approach has made it a global leader, and its platform is expected to power several upcoming models in India.
2. MG Motor: GSEV and eHUB Ecosystem
MG Motor’s GSEV (Global Small Electric Vehicle) platform is designed for compact urban EVs like the MG Comet. It focuses on small-footprint efficiency and cost-effective production — ideal for India’s city-centric EV demand.
Beyond vehicle design, MG is building a connected mobility ecosystem:
- MG-Jio Innovative Connectivity Platform (ICP) integrates connected car features and infotainment.
- eHUB by MG, an upcoming platform, will enable seamless public EV charging through a unified app experience.
This combination of hardware innovation and digital connectivity makes MG’s EV strategy one of the most holistic in its segment.
3. Mahindra: INGLO and NU IQ Platforms
Mahindra’s INGLO platform (short for Indian Global) represents its leap into serious EV innovation. Built as a pure “electric-origin” skateboard platform, it supports various vehicle types — from compact SUVs to performance-oriented models.
Core features:
- Scalable architecture adaptable to multiple body styles.
- High structural integrity for crash safety.
- Designed for future tech integration, including over-the-air (OTA) updates and ADAS features.
Mahindra is also working on NU IQ, a flexible multi-powertrain platform that supports EV, hybrid, and ICE vehicles, aimed at both Indian and global markets.
4. Tata Motors: acti.ev (Gen 2 Platform)
Tata Motors, one of India’s EV pioneers, has the acti.ev platform, a dedicated EV architecture built from the ground up.
ey attributes:
- 400V architecture supporting FWD, RWD, and AWD configurations.
- Compatible with ADAS Level 2+, V2L (Vehicle-to-Load), and advanced connectivity.
- Designed for scalability — future models can range from compact EVs to full-sized SUVs.
The acti.ev platform powers the next generation of Tata EVs, emphasizing performance, range, and safety while retaining affordability for Indian buyers.
Premium Luxury EV Platforms in India
1. Porsche and Audi: PPE and MEB Platforms
The Premium Platform Electric (PPE), jointly developed by Porsche and Audi, is a high-end EV foundation focused on power, precision, and luxury.
- 800V architecture for rapid charging and high performance.
- Used in next-gen Audi and Porsche EVs, including e-tron GT and Macan EV models.
- Supports both sport sedans and SUVs, offering flexibility across segments.
Audi also leverages Volkswagen’s MEB platform for mid-tier EVs like the Q4 e-tron, ensuring scalability across price ranges.
2. Mercedes-Benz: MMA, MB.EA, AMG.EA, and VAN.EA Platforms
Mercedes-Benz has diversified its EV portfolio with multiple dedicated architectures tailored to specific needs:
- MMA: for compact EVs such as the new CLA.
- MB.EA: for medium to large sedans and SUVs.
- AMG.EA: for high-performance electric AMG models.
- VAN.EA: for electric commercial and passenger vans.
The brand is also transitioning the EVA2 platform (used in EQE and EQS) to a new 800V setup for improved efficiency and charging speeds.
3. BMW: Neue Klasse
BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse platform marks a complete transformation of its EV strategy. It is a dedicated electric-only architecture, distinct from the earlier flexible CLAR platform.
Features include:
- Cylindrical battery cells that offer higher energy density and faster charging.
- Next-gen eDrive technology for efficiency and performance.
- Software-driven cockpit with redefined user experience and minimal latency.
The Neue Klasse platform will form the backbone of BMW’s future lineup, including the next-gen iX3 and i3 models.
4. Hyundai and Kia: E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform)
Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP is one of the most advanced EV platforms on the market. It underpins vehicles from Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, offering a futuristic mix of performance, safety, and space.
Key highlights:
- 800V electrical system with ultra-fast DC charging (up to 350kW).
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature allows you to power appliances directly from your EV.
- Low center of gravity for better handling and improved safety.
- Designed for high efficiency and range, as seen in models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.
This platform’s modularity means Hyundai can develop multiple EV body styles without reinventing the core architecture each time.
5. Volvo: SPA3 and BZR Platforms
Volvo’s electrification journey is built on two distinct platforms:
- SPA3 (Scalable Product Architecture 3): a software-defined, modular platform for premium EVs, integrating core computing and advanced driver assistance systems.
- BZR platform: designed for electric buses, offering modular battery configurations for route flexibility and range optimization.
Together, they underline Volvo’s commitment to sustainable, intelligent mobility across both passenger and commercial segments.
The Road Ahead: Platform Power Defines the EV Future
The EV revolution in India is accelerating faster than ever, but what will truly determine which automakers lead the race isn’t just battery size or design — it’s the strength of their platforms.
From Tata’s acti.ev making EVs more accessible to BYD and BMW redefining global performance standards, these architectures represent the foundation of a cleaner, smarter, and more efficient automotive era.
As the Indian market matures, expect more localized and software-defined EV platforms that combine performance, affordability, and digital intelligence — all on four electric wheels.
