Mahindra P601 LCV short wheelbase variant testing [Update]

Update 2 - The P601 was caught on test yet again in Chennai by an Indian Autos Blog reader.

Mahindra P601 - Spyshot Gallery

To share components with Maxximo.

Update - IAB reader Maulik Asher spotted the shorter wheelbase variant of the P601 testing near Chennai this month.

During another instance of Mahindra testing its P601 LCV (codename), IAB reader Ajay has sighted and photographed the vehicle in Chennai.

Set to be launched this year, the P601 LCV is expected to be made available in two wheelbase and payload choices. It will rival Tata Ace, and is expected to manufactured at one of Mahindra's current plants before the car maker moves production to its proposed facility in Cheyyar, Tamil Nadu.

The Mahindra P601 LCV is likely to share its components with the existing Maxximo, both on the inside and the 909cc, 2-cylinder engine. Alternatively a new powerplant could be used, but none has been announced yet.

Also read: Updated Mahindra Thar spotted at a dealership

Previous spyshots have confirmed dumbbell shaped headlamps with integrated blinkers, a dashboard-mounted gear lever, and an indicated 145-section, 12-inch diameter tyre size.