From the title, let’s establish something straightaway — the TVS iQube is a practical electric scooter. It’s not flashy, gets the right proportions, and taking the base model into consideration, it does not distract the rider with unwanted features. Is this mix enough for one to live with every day? Let’s find out.
TVS iQube — An introduction
The base model of the TVS iQube costs Rs 1.07 lakh, ex-showroom. For the price, you get a 2.2kWh battery pack, which TVS says returns a real-world range of 75km, a top speed of 75kmph, and can be charged from 0-80% in 2 hours and 45 minutes with the off-board charger that comes along.
The scooter gets a disc brake at the front, a drum brake at the rear, a combo-braking system, a digital dash, LED lighting, and sufficient underseat storage to fit a helmet, albeit not the international spec ones though. The mere is also a USB charging socket. So overall, it’s a scooter with enough features to keep you happy, but not distract you.
The real-world experience
Swing a leg over and turn the key on, the display takes a few seconds — a bummer. However, once you long-press the start button, the motor comes on with a beep. There are two modes to choose from — Eco and Power. The former has a top speed of 44kmph, while the latter offers more. Acceleration is prompt, and adequate for the city — especially Bangalore.
While the scooter was ridden in traffic most of the time, the power mode was used occasionally when the roads opened up and the performance felt good. Not too scary, nor was it lethargic. It has a sense of confidence while riding and although it’s not as sharp as an Ather into corners, it takes them with confidence. It soaks up potholes pretty well, and doesn’t scream for attention.
It comes to the design. It’s practical, looks futuristic, and is welcoming while managing to stand out from a crowd just so. Charging is hassle-free, and if your commutes are short, there is no actual reason to see past the TVS iQube in my opinion. For those looking to buy an electric scooter, I would save my words and say one thing — go take a test ride.
TVS does not have fast charging grids like some of its competition, but what would one need it if daily commutes are under 50km? And in case there is a must to charge it, any TVS service station is going to allow it for free, and there are 1,364 service centres currently.