Mainstream two-wheeler manufacturers such as Hero, TVS, and Bajaj have been taking it slow when it comes to electric scooters, unlike a few startups that have multiple scooters on offer. However, when the big players decide to build an electric scooter with no holds barred, the results can be surprising.
A good example is the TVS X, which was unveiled in August, which takes a radical design language and approach compared to the iQube, which was the company’s sole electric scooter offering. We got the chance to ride the new TVS X around the track at the company’s factory and here’s what we think.
TVS X first ride review: First impressions
The first thing that catches one’s eye is the design of the TVS X. It takes a completely new approach compared to the iQube, with its maxi-scooter design. The X is based on an Xleton platform made of an aluminium perimeter frame with a bolt-on subframe. This combined with its bodywork gives the TVS X a sporty design.
Adding to the design elements are the Showa telescopic forks, vertical headlights, an off-set rear shock made by Showa, split seats, 12-inch wheels, and the large TFT touchscreen dash that offers a host of connectivity features.
TVS X first ride review: Ride and handling
The X looks sporty no doubt, but does it handle that way? The answer is yes. Having ridden it briefly around the TVS test track, the riding position is surprisingly neutral given the design of the scooter. The X manages to hide its 120kg weight well, while also being quite nimble for its size.
The TVS X is powered by a 4.4 kWh battery pack that delivers 14.75bhp to the rear wheel and TVS had dropped the hub motor as seen on the iQube. The new battery pack can be charged from 0–80 percent in 3 hours and 40 minutes, while an optional 3kW fast charger can charge 0–50 percent in 50 minutes. TVS also offers 5 regen modes, however, we did not feel a big difference between them during the brief ride.
The TVS X has three ride modes – Xtealth, Xtride, and Xonic – and the has a claimed IDC range of 140km, however, we were not able to test the range owing to the brief time. In Xonic mode, TVS claims an acceleration time of 0–40kmph time of 2.6 seconds and a top speed of 105kmph, the latter of which was achievable on the track.
TVS X first ride review: Equipment on offer
The Hosur-based manufacturer has also put in a lot of effort to make the X as tech-loaded as possible. The 10.25-inch TFT dash offers a host of features and can also be adjusted (tilted) to suit the best angle for the rider.
Apart from vital statistics such as speed, mode, range, and SOC, the instrument cluster offers so much more such as connected tech, navigation, video streaming, personalised profiles for individual users, voice assistance, and also allows users to set wallpapers of their choice. The UI is easy to use and the unit itself is intuitive, however, with the amount of options available, it can get a bit fiddley.
TVS X first ride review: Should you buy one?
Answering the big question — should you buy the new TVS X? Starting with the looks and design, the TVS X is not an average commuter as it does not offer the front board while the under seat storage is limited. The X is a large scooter, but it manages its weight and size extremely well.
In terms of performance, the X is quick, on par with performance scooters made by competitors, while also offering a similar range. The rear suspension felt a bit soft on the track, but the scooter is designed for real-world usage rather than track days. However, where the X stands out is with the equipment on offer — the 10.25-inch dash, Showa suspension, and most importantly, the single-channel ABS, which no other electric scooter gets in the market.
Finally, the price — Rs 2.50 lakh, ex-showroom. Add another Rs 16,000 for the charger which takes around 4 hours to give 80 percent charge. To sum it up, the TVS X seems to be an expensive affair. But TVS is not looking to sell the X in mass numbers such as the iQube, and the quality of the components used in the X are superior. Taking into account all of the above, the X stands to be a unique offering in the segment, and that begs the question — can one really put a price tag on something unique?
Based on our short outing with the TVS X, we were impressed and the scooter is a good example of what an experienced automaker can build if price is not the constraint. However, we would know more when we ride the TVS X on public roads and test it under real-world conditions.
