Quick Highlights:Tata Harrier EV and Mahindra Bolero Pik-Up seen sliding on snow-covered Shinku La PassVideo sparks debate around QWD performance versus real-world snow driving skillsBlack ice and lack of snow chains identified as key reasons for loss of controlExperts reiterate that 4x4 or QWD alone is not enough on icy mountain roadsWith winter setting in across northern India, high-altitude regions have already begun receiving heavy snowfall, making driving conditions extremely challenging. One such incident from Shinku La Pass, which connects the Zanskar region of Ladakh with Lahaul in Himachal Pradesh, has gone viral on social media. The video shows a Tata Harrier EV struggling for traction on a snow-covered stretch of road, eventually sliding downhill and getting hit by a Mahindra Bolero Pik-Up that was also unable to maintain grip.The video was shared by X user Nikhil Saini, who highlighted that snowfall has begun in upper regions of Himachal while lower areas remain unaffected. He also pointed out how EVs are now reaching high-altitude mountain passes, marking a significant shift in vehicle usage patterns in the Himalayas. However, the clip also serves as a reminder that modern technology alone cannot overcome the challenges posed by snow and black ice.[ Watch Full Video Here]In the video, locals can be heard shouting instructions at the drivers, repeatedly asking them to release the brakes. This advice is rooted in experience. Braking suddenly on snow or black ice often worsens the situation, causing wheels to lock up and vehicles to slide uncontrollably. Snow-covered roads, especially those hiding black ice underneath, offer extremely low traction. Once a vehicle begins sliding, regaining control becomes difficult even with electronic aids and all-wheel-drive systems.The Tata Harrier EV seen in the video is believed to be the QWD variant, Tata’s quad-wheel-drive setup for its electric SUV. The Mahindra Bolero Pik-Up following it also appears to be a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Despite this, both vehicles struggled badly. This has led to questions about whether the QWD system failed. The reality, however, is more nuanced.Four-wheel drive or QWD helps distribute power to all wheels, improving traction in many scenarios. But on snow and black ice, grip is determined more by tires and driving technique than drivetrain layout. Without proper winter tires or snow chains, even the most advanced 4x4 systems can become ineffective. In fact, excessive torque delivery from powerful EVs can sometimes make things worse if not managed carefully.Interestingly, in many Himalayan regions, local drivers routinely navigate snow-covered roads using simple two-wheel-drive cars like the Maruti Alto or Ertiga. The key difference lies in experience. Locals understand how to modulate throttle, avoid sudden braking, maintain momentum, and read the road surface. They also know when to stop and fit snow chains, which are often the single most effective solution for icy roads.Snow chains work by cutting through the snow and biting into the ice below, dramatically improving traction. For front-wheel-drive vehicles, chains are usually installed on the front wheels, while 4x4 vehicles can benefit from chains on all four wheels. Without them, vehicles are essentially relying on rubber tires against ice, a combination that offers very little grip.The Shinku La Pass incident also underlines the importance of smooth driving inputs. Sudden acceleration, sharp steering corrections, or panic braking can instantly unsettle a vehicle on snow. Drivers are advised to use gentle throttle inputs, maintain low speeds, and allow the vehicle to roll rather than fight gravity on downhill sections.As more EVs and SUVs venture into high-altitude regions, such incidents are likely to become more common. The Tata Harrier EV sliding on snow is not a sign of QWD failure, but rather a reminder that mountain driving in winter demands preparation, patience, and respect for the terrain. Carrying snow chains, understanding vehicle limitations, and learning proper snow-driving techniques remain far more important than drivetrain specifications alone.