TVS Orbiter EV
Electric vehicles are the future of the automobile industry. Around the world, big companies are already moving fast into electric mobility, and India is also not far behind. In India, many companies like Ola, Ather, Bajaj, and Hero have already entered the EV scooter market. But one of the most trusted two-wheeler companies in India, TVS, took a longer time to bring their first proper EV scooter. After waiting for years, TVS has finally launched their first dedicated electric scooter – the TVS Orbiter EV.
When I first saw the Orbiter EV, my honest feeling was simple – it is one of the most beautiful scooters I have ever seen. The design is very unique and different compared to other EV scooters in the market. Even though I have not yet taken a test ride, the scooter’s look and style clearly show that TVS has tried to make something fresh and modern.
Now, one point must be said clearly – TVS has entered the EV market quite late. Other companies are already far ahead. Ola has sold lakhs of scooters, Ather has made a strong base in premium EVs, Bajaj and Hero have already entered too. So TVS is late. But being late is not always a problem, because sometimes when you come late, you also come with something better. And that is what I personally feel about the Orbiter EV. It looks like a scooter that is well planned and carefully designed.
Before you buy this scooter, it is important to know the specifications. But instead of just giving numbers, I will explain them in very simple English so that you can fully understand.
TVS ORBITER EV SCOOTER SPECIFICATION
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scooter type | Electric scooter |
| Battery type & Capacity | 3.1 kwh Li-ion battery |
| Range by comapny | 158 km/charge |
| Motor type & Power | Hub-mounted BLDC motor, 2.5kW |
| Top speed | 70 km/h |
| Acceleration | 0-40 in 6.8 seconds |
| Driving modes | Eco & City modes |
| Charging time | 4.1 hours with 650 W poratble charger |
| Wheel setup | 14 front alloy wheel 12 rear |
| Brakes | CBS with drum brakes front & rear |
| Suspension | Telescopic fork front Dual shock absorber rear |
| Curb weight | 112 kg |
| Ground clearance | 169mm |
| Seat height | 763mm |
| Storage | 34L under-seat storage, apron pocket |
| Display & connectivity | 5.5 colour LCD with bluetooth, OTA, nav, call/SMS alert, USB charging |
| Price | Rs 99,900 - Rs 12,0000 |
Motor and Performance
The TVS Orbiter EV comes with an advanced electric motor. The motor is powerful enough to give the scooter good pickup and smooth acceleration. For city rides, the performance feels more than enough. Unlike petrol scooters, there is no gear shift or engine noise. You just press the throttle and the scooter moves instantly.
Simple Explanation: The motor is like the scooter’s heart. It gives instant power as soon as you twist the throttle. You don’t have to wait for speed to build up. For daily use in traffic, this motor makes the ride very smooth and comfortable.
Battery and Range
One of the most important parts of an EV is the battery. TVS has given the Orbiter EV a lithium-ion battery with high efficiency. On a full charge, this scooter can go around 120 to 140 kilometers depending on road and riding style.
Simple Explanation: The battery is like the scooter’s fuel tank. But instead of petrol, it stores electricity. With one full charge, you can easily travel across the city for a day or two without worry. If you ride smoothly, you can get even better range.
Charging Time
Charging is another important factor. TVS offers both normal charging and fast charging options. With normal charging, it may take around 4 to 5 hours to fully charge. But with a fast charger, you can charge the scooter up to 80% in about 1 hour.
Simple Explanation: Charging the scooter is just like charging your mobile phone. If you use a normal charger, it takes longer. If you use a fast charger, it takes less time. So even if you forget to charge overnight, you can still quickly top it up in the morning.
Top Speed
The TVS Orbiter EV has a top speed of around 95 to 100 kmph. For an electric scooter, this is quite impressive. Most city scooters only go up to 70 or 80 kmph. With this speed, you can even take the Orbiter EV on highways for short rides.
Simple Explanation: The scooter is not just for slow city rides. If you want to go a bit faster, it can easily do that. You will not feel left behind on bigger roads. At the same time, the speed is not dangerously high, so it is safe for everyday use.
Design and Build Quality
The Orbiter EV has one of the most stylish designs among scooters today. The body looks sharp, the headlamp and tail lamp are futuristic, and the side panels give a sporty feel. TVS has always been good at styling, but this time they have made something completely unique.
Simple Explanation: When you see this scooter, you will feel it looks different from normal scooters. It looks modern, stylish, and strong. People will definitely notice it on the road. This scooter is made to attract attention.
Features and Technology
TVS has given the Orbiter EV many smart features. It has a full digital display, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, riding modes, regenerative braking, and even mobile app support. These features make the scooter more than just a vehicle – it becomes a smart gadget on wheels.
Simple Explanation: The scooter is not only for traveling. It also connects with your mobile, shows you maps, and helps you ride better. It has different modes like eco and sport. It even saves energy when you brake. Basically, it is a modern smart scooter.
Price and Value for Money
The expected price of the TVS Orbiter EV in India is around 1.3 to 1.4 lakh rupees (around 1600 to 1700 USD). For the design, features, and technology it offers, the price is reasonable. But compared to competitors like Ola and Ather, TVS must work harder to attract buyers.
Simple Explanation: The scooter is not very cheap, but it is also not too costly. It comes in the middle range. For the brand value of TVS and the stylish design, the price feels okay. But if TVS can reduce the price a little, more people will buy it.
MY OPINION
Now let us talk about the bigger picture. Why is the TVS Orbiter EV important, and how will it change the EV market?
Firstly, TVS is a trusted Indian brand. Many people have used TVS bikes like Apache, Jupiter, and Scooty for years. They know that TVS gives reliable vehicles. That trust will help Orbiter EV. People who are afraid to try new brands like Ola may feel safer with TVS.
Secondly, the scooter market in India is very big. More than 60% of two-wheelers sold are scooters. If electric scooters become common, it will reduce petrol use and also reduce pollution. Orbiter EV is a step in that direction.
Thirdly, competition is already tough. Ola has strong sales numbers, Ather has a good premium image, Bajaj Chetak is also popular, and Hero has low-cost models. TVS must compete with all of them. To win, Orbiter EV needs not only style but also better after-sales service, better charging network, and more marketing.
Another important point is government support. In India, EVs get subsidies under FAME-II scheme. This reduces the cost for customers. But subsidy policies may change in the future. TVS has to prepare for that and still keep the scooter affordable.
In terms of ride comfort, TVS has always made scooters that handle Indian roads well. From my experience with other TVS models, I believe Orbiter EV will also be smooth and stable. Suspension, seat comfort, and build quality will matter a lot.
Finally, the future of EVs is certain. Petrol prices will only increase, and cities will push for more eco-friendly vehicles. If TVS manages to continue improving Orbiter EV and launches more EVs, they can become a big player in this space.
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