Electric scooters have revolutionized the way families commute in urban and semi-urban areas of India. With their eco-friendliness, cost efficiency, and ease of use, these scooters are becoming the go-to option for family transportation. In this article, we delve into the best family budget electric scooters in India, highlighting key features, price points, and their suitability for family use.
Why Choose Electric Scooters for Families?
Electric scooters are not just trendy; they are practical solutions for modern transportation challenges. Here’s why they are ideal for families:
- Environmentally Friendly: Electric scooters produce zero emissions, contributing to cleaner air.
- Cost-Effective: With rising fuel prices, electric scooters offer significant savings on operational costs.
- Easy to Maintain: Minimal mechanical components translate to lower maintenance costs.
- Convenient and Compact: Perfect for navigating through congested streets and finding parking spaces.
Top Family Budget Electric Scooters in India
1. Ola S1 Air
The Ola S1 Air stands out as a reliable and budget-friendly electric scooter for families.
Key Features:
- Range: 85 km on a single charge.
- Top Speed: 85 km/h.
- Battery: 3 kWh Lithium-ion battery with fast charging support.
- Price: ₹1,09,000 (ex-showroom).
OLA S1 Air Review
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Good Things
- Comes loaded with features
- Gets multiple battery capacity options
- Strong brand recall
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Could be Better
- Priced on the higher side
- Gets only 101km of the claimed range
- Uses drum brakes on both ends
The spacious footboard and comfortable seating make it ideal for two adults or an adult with a child.
2. Hero Electric Optima CX
Hero Electric is a pioneer in India’s electric vehicle market, and the Optima CX is one of their best offerings for families.
Key Features:
- Range: 82 km per charge.
- Top Speed: 45 km/h.
- Battery: 51.2V/30Ah dual-battery system.
- Price: ₹67,190 (ex-showroom).
Hero Electric Optima CX Review
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Good Things
- Gets a fair asking price
- Utility-oriented build
- Gets single/double battery options
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Could be Better
- Gets a low claimed range of just 82km
- Claimed top speed is low at 42kmph
- Charging time is fairly long
This scooter is an affordable option for short daily commutes, perfect for small families.
3. TVS iQube
TVS iQube brings style, performance, and efficiency to the table, making it a great choice for family use.
Key Features:
- Range: 100 km per charge.
- Top Speed: 78 km/h.
- Battery: 3.04 kWh Lithium-ion.
- Price: ₹1,25,000 (ex-showroom).
TVS iQube Review
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Good Things
- Loaded with modern features
- Has a decent range of 75kms
- Looks like a regular scooter
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Could be Better
- Takes 5 hours for a full charge
- Available only in Bengaluru
With a robust build and advanced features like a TFT display, this scooter offers a premium experience.
4. Ather 450X
Ather Energy’s 450X is a blend of performance and practicality, catering to families who prioritize quality.
Key Features:
- Range: 146 km in Eco mode.
- Top Speed: 80 km/h.
- Battery: 3.7 kWh battery pack.
- Price: ₹1,45,000 (ex-showroom).
Ather 450X Review
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Good Things
- Churns out excellent performance
- The touchscreen cluster is quite responsive
- Features fast charging too
-
Could be Better
- The asking price is on the higher side
- Limited sales, service reach
Its advanced connectivity options and efficient motor make it a value-for-money option.
5. Bajaj Chetak Electric
Reviving the iconic Chetak brand, Bajaj delivers a family-friendly electric scooter with a touch of nostalgia.
Key Features:
- Range: 90 km per charge.
- Top Speed: 70 km/h.
- Battery: 3 kWh IP67-rated battery.
- Price: ₹1,20,000 (ex-showroom).
Bajaj Chetak Review
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Good Things
- Offers a tested range of 108km
- Instrument cluster looks modern
- The build quality is up to the mark
-
Could be Better
- The asking price is on the higher side
- Underseat space is inadequate
- Top-speed isn’t enough
With its sturdy build and smooth ride quality, it is perfect for family commutes.
6. Ather Rizta
The Ather Rizta is the first-family oriented scooter from the EV maker. The Rizta features a typical family-oriented scooter design and is offered in a wide range of colours.
Key Features:
- Range: 90 km per charge.
- Top Speed: 80 km/h.
- Battery: 2.9 kWh IP67-rated battery.
- Price: ₹1,20,000 (ex-showroom).
Ather Rizta Review
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Good Things
- Equipped with a lot of first-in-class features
- Overall claimed riding range is quite good
- Under seat storage has good capacity
-
Could be Better
- Quality of plastics could be better
- Pro pack is quite expensive
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Scooter for Families
1. Battery Range
For families, a scooter with a decent range ensures uninterrupted commutes. Choose a model offering at least 80–100 km on a single charge.
2. Seating Comfort
Ample space and ergonomic seating are crucial for a comfortable ride, especially when carrying kids.
3. Safety Features
Look for safety features like anti-theft alarms, regenerative braking, and LED lighting.
4. Charging Infrastructure
A scooter compatible with home charging setups and public charging stations ensures convenience.
5. Maintenance Costs
Opt for a model with a robust warranty and low servicing requirements.
Government Incentives for Electric Scooters in India
The Indian government offers several incentives to promote electric vehicles, such as:
- FAME II Subsidy: Provides significant discounts on electric scooters.
- Tax Benefits: Tax deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakh on loans taken for EV purchases.
- State Subsidies: Additional incentives depending on your state of residence.
These incentives make electric scooters even more accessible for families on a budget.
Tips for Maintaining Your Electric Scooter
- Regular Battery Checks: Ensure optimal performance by charging the battery correctly and avoiding overcharging.
- Tire Maintenance: Check tire pressure regularly to avoid wear and ensure a smooth ride.
- Software Updates: Update the scooter’s firmware for enhanced features and security.
- Cleanliness: Clean the scooter regularly to avoid dirt affecting its components.
Conclusion
Electric scooters are paving the way for sustainable and economical family transportation in India. Models like the Ola S1 Air, Hero Electric Optima CX, and TVS iQube offer the perfect balance of affordability, range, and features. By understanding your family’s commuting needs and budget, you can select the ideal electric scooter that ensures a hassle-free and eco-friendly ride.
