Mahindra e2o - Software Update Wishlist

By Kamlesh Mallick

Update August 2016
There has been no major updates to the Maps, Infotainment System for existing users from Mahindra even after 3+ years on Indian roads.

Original Blog 
The Mahindra e2o is most intelligent car on Indian roads.  We all know it is an electric and generally electric cars have advanced technology features that are still years away in ICE based cars.  The e2o has everything - Intelligent Energy Management system, automatic data uploads, SMS based alerts, Mobile app integration, multiple computers monitoring everything, touch screen system etc.
Because of so much tech involved, lot of features can be upgraded with a simple software update.  
In this blog, we focus on some improvements Mahindra Reva could consider as a software release that would help users.

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So lets get started on the list of software enhancements for the e2o

• Start-up sound sequence

After authentication, the Mahindra e2o shows a welcome message. Many users, especially new get confused and wonder if its okay to step on the pedal and get going. Play a nice sounding tune to ensure the user knows bout successful authentication.
Something like the pleasant sound the Nissan Leaf makes would be perfect! 

• Navigation System improvements 

 The maps need to be updated on a more frequent basis. Also the maps in the navigation system could use 'Google Maps' instead of the current software. Google Maps has way better information on places, businesses and roads.
Its a huge change, but it will be a significant upgrade in terms of experience for end users.

• Mobile App enhancements

a) Provide an option to charge the car at a schedule. For example in the summers, we would prefer to start charging the car only from 1 AM onwards when it is cooler.  The user could setup the charging schedule on the mobile app and plug the car in to the mains.  Charging should start based on the schedule that is set.
b) When the user tries to locate the car on the phone app map, it locates the position of the phone and not the car. This needs to be fixed.
c) Provide the ability to fine control the AC temperature and also set the heater, while using the app.
d) Provide an option to reduce or turn off the lock / unlock sounds the car makes. It is very loud and late at night, you don't want to disturb your neighbors!

• Music Player enhancements

a) Provide a feature which enables us to skip to a certain section of song during playback. Currently you cant go to the end or the start of a music track.
b) Provide a search facility while exploring an iPod

Cannot skip to a section during playback

• Apple Carplay & Android Auto

a) Integrate with Apple Carplay (https://www.apple.com/ios/carplay/) and Android Auto (http://www.android.com/auto)
This would allow other internet streaming like Pandora on the touchscreen among other features like using Google Maps and using the phone features on the e2o display.

• Other enhancements

a) Provide Release notes to customers when there are software updates.  Send an email about the update to customers.
b) Enable over the air software updates, instead of forcing owners to take the car to the service center.
c) Provide a digital manual.  The current paper manual can be done away with and the entire manual should be accessible on the screen.  It is a greener option too!
d) The menu that has video manuals has a flaw. It does not change chapters. The user needs to shut the menu or shift to navigation and then return to see the next chapter.
e) Better integration with iOS devices over Bluetooth. Right now can only dial numbers and see the numbers of incoming calls.
f) More stats about the car like battery temperature and also date-time display on the infotainment when in map mode.

Mahindra Reva engineers performing updates. Cant his be done over the air?

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Final Words
The Mahindra e2o is a great car.  Its the 'geekiest' car on Indian roads. No ICE car has these technology features. 
This list was compiled in consultation with Rapahe and Farah Halim, proud owners of Mahindra e2o.
Am sure there might be more ideas from you, dear reader.  If yes, please add your suggestions in the comments and we shall send the consolidated list to our friends at Mahindra Reva.
Its all about making the e2o an even better car in the coming years.