With the EV segment gaining popularity, many startups were the first to take advantage, especially in the two-wheeler category. Startups like Ather and Ola set a strong brand image in the market, while legacy players like TVS, Hero, and Bajaj took time. However, as time has tested products, quality products are beginning to stand out.
So if you’re in the market, looking to buy and electric scooter, what should you choose? A product from a well-known brand, or something from a flashy startup? Here are four electric scooters we recommend.
TVS iQube
Let’s start with a legacy brand, because why not? The iQube started slowly and gained reliability steadily and is now one of the best-selling electric vehicles in the two-wheeler segment. For those looking for a simple electric vehicle that does its commuting job with no hassle, TVS has a variant. For those looking for performance and features, TVS has a variant as well.
Priced at Rs 94,434 onwards, ex-showroom, the top-spec TVS iQube ST carries a price tag of Rs 1.58 lakh, for which it gets a massive 5.3kWh battery pack with a claimed IDC range of 212km. We have put the base variant of the iQube under real-world testing and here’s a detailed reason as to why the iQube is on this list.
Bajaj Chetak
The Bajaj Chetak started slow as well but with a lot of backlash owing to its pricing, followed by its availability and other smaller reasons. However, as the segment matured, the Bajaj Chetak proved to be one of the best electric scooters out there by leading sales in India. The Chetak remains the only scooter in the segment to feature a full metal body and the retro styling and performance give the Chetak a unique character.
Initially sold as a single variant, the Bajaj Chetak EV is now available in four variants and even saw an update recently. Priced between Rs 99,900 and Rs 1.42 lakh, the Chetak is built strong and offers a host of features without overdoing anything. However, if there was one thing to nitpick, the turn signal switchgear has to change!
Ather
Let’s look at the startups now, starting with Bengaluru-based Ather Energy. The company’s 450 platform is the longest-running with literally no changes to its design. However, the scooter is loaded with tech and customers seem to be satisfied with the product, primarily owing to its reliability.
There have been issues in the past and Ather was quick to address it, while minor technical glitches exist with the display and app. However, these have not hampered the reliability of the scooter when it comes to day-to-day usage and charging. Building on the 450’s success came the Rizta as well, which is becoming the best-seller for the Ather.
River Indie
Before anyone says ‘Whhaaattt’ — let me explain. The Indie is a quirky scooter and may not appeal to many. The squarish scooter which I’ve heard being called a suitcase, has a standout design and is bulky. It looks utilitarian and heavy. However, things are not always as seen at first sight.
For a motorcyclist riding an Indie, it feels like a natural transition, and the weight just disappears once the vehicle gets moving — regardless of who rides it. It has a good ride, offers a realistic range of around 80km on a full charge, and when the enthusiast in you beconks, it has the performance and handling. And storage — plenty! Take a ride before judging it is all we can say.
