DC2 Mercury e-TanQ — Craziest, Most Rugged SUV in India!
Every once in a while, a concept vehicle comes along that feels less like a car and more like a statement. The DC2 Mercury e-TanQ is exactly that. When I first saw images and early details, my immediate thought was that this looks like something straight out of a sci-fi film rather than a typical Indian SUV.
Developed through a partnership between DC2 (Dilip Chhabria’s design house) and Mercury EV-Tech, the e-TanQ aims to blend extreme styling, high performance, and electric mobility into one bold package. If the production version stays close to the concept, it could easily become one of the most attention-grabbing vehicles ever seen on Indian roads.
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What Is the DC2 Mercury e-TanQ?
The DC2 Mercury e-TanQ is a forthcoming all-electric luxury off-road SUV concept, first showcased at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Global Expo.
Key highlights include:
- Expected Launch: Late 2026
- Estimated Price: Around ₹50–60 lakh
- Segment: Luxury electric SUV
- Configuration: Two-door, four-seater
- Drive System: Dual-motor AWD
It’s still in the prototype phase, and early testing vehicles appear to use a modified Mahindra Thar platform, though the final version is expected to use a dedicated EV architecture.
Bold, Radical Design That Stands Out
If there’s one area where the e-TanQ clearly separates itself from competitors, it’s design. Personally, I think this is the kind of vehicle you buy because you want people to stare at it.
- Massive front grille with an aggressive, “tank-like” presence
- Ultra-slim LED headlights and distinctive lighting signatures
- Coupe-style roofline that gives it a sporty silhouette
- Camera-based mirrors instead of traditional ORVMs
- Forward-sliding doors, a rare and futuristic mechanism
- Connected LED tail lamps and a bold rear diffuser
The concept typically appears in a dual-tone black and red finish, reinforcing its dramatic visual identity.
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Performance and Powertrain
Underneath the dramatic styling, the e-TanQ promises serious performance.
- Power Output: Around 650 bhp
- Drive Layout: Dual-motor AWD
- Off-Road Capability: Designed for strong torque and rough terrain handling
With figures like these, the e-TanQ could rival far more expensive luxury EVs in acceleration and performance, at least on paper.
Battery and Driving Range
One of the most surprising aspects of the e-TanQ is its battery size.
- Battery Pack: 180 kWh
- Expected Range: 400–500+ km
- Positioning: Among the largest battery packs proposed for an Indian passenger EV
If these numbers translate into real-world performance, range anxiety is unlikely to be a major concern for most owners.
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Wheels, Dimensions, and Off-Road Focus
The SUV’s stance is built to reinforce its rugged character.
- 33-inch all-terrain tyres
- Oversized alloy wheels
- Extremely high ground clearance
- Wide wheel arches and heavy cladding
All of this gives the e-TanQ a presence that feels closer to a military vehicle than a traditional SUV.
Interior Expectations and Cabin Technology
While the final production interior hasn’t been fully revealed, DC2 has hinted at several elements:
- Four-seater layout
- Premium materials and upholstery
- Large infotainment and digital displays
- Integration of camera mirror displays
- Customization options, which DC2 is known for
Given DC2’s track record with luxury interiors, I’d expect the cabin to be one of the most distinctive parts of the vehicle.
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The Companies Behind the e-TanQ
DC2 (DC Design): Founded by Dilip Chhabria, DC2 is known for high-end custom interiors, concept vehicles, and most famously, the DC Avanti, India’s first indigenous sports car. Their role in the e-TanQ is primarily design and styling.
Mercury EV-Tech: Mercury EV-Tech provides battery technology, electric drivetrains, motor controllers and EV infrastructure. They also hold a majority stake in DC2 Mercury Cars, the joint venture producing the e-TanQ.
Expected Price and Market Position
The expected price of ₹50–60 lakh places the e-TanQ in the luxury EV segment.
At that price, it could compete in buyer consideration with Hyundai IONIQ 5, Kia EV6, and entry luxury EV SUVs.
However, its design and exclusivity make it a very different proposition.
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Should You Consider Buying the e-TanQ?
In my view, this is not a conventional purchase decision.
It Makes Sense If:
- You want an extremely unique vehicle
- You already own practical cars
- You value design and exclusivity over brand legacy
It May Not Be Ideal If:
- You need reliable nationwide service support
- Resale value matters to you
- You want a family-friendly SUV
This feels like a “heart over head” purchase—something enthusiasts will appreciate more than practical buyers.
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Final Thoughts
The DC2 Mercury e-TanQ is easily one of the boldest automotive projects currently emerging from India. Whether it succeeds commercially or not, it represents a growing confidence in homegrown design and EV technology.
Personally, I think vehicles like this play an important role in pushing the industry forward. Even if only a small number are sold, they spark imagination—and sometimes that matters just as much as sales figures.
Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs
Q. What is the expected price of the DC2 Mercury e-TanQ?
- The SUV is expected to start at around ₹50–60 lakh, placing it in the luxury EV category.
Q. When will the DC2 Mercury e-TanQ launch in India?
- The tentative launch timeline is late 2026, although timelines could change as development continues.
Q. What is the range of the e-TanQ?
- Early estimates suggest a driving range of 400–500 km or more, thanks to its 180 kWh battery pack.
Q. How powerful is the e-TanQ?
- The SUV is expected to produce around 650 bhp from a dual-motor AWD setup.
Q. Is the e-TanQ a production car or a concept?
- Currently, it is in the prototype/pre-production stage, with testing vehicles already spotted.
Q. Who makes the DC2 Mercury e-TanQ?
- It is developed by DC2 (design) and Mercury EV-Tech (electric powertrain and technology) under a joint venture.
