Abhijeet A
New Delhi: The Indian electric scooter market has exploded into a fierce four-way battleground. Gone are the days of simple choices; today’s buyer is faced with a dazzling array of options, each promising a unique blend of performance, practicality, and technology. If you’re in the market for a premium electric scooter in 2025, you’re likely wrestling with the ultimate question: which one is right for you? Is it the family-focused comfort of the TVS iQube, the razor-sharp performance of the Ather 450X, the raw power of the Ola S1 Pro, or the timeless style of the Bajaj Chetak? We’ve ridden them all, crunched the numbers, and lived with them to bring you the definitive verdict.
Key Features at a Glance (TVS iQube ST)
To set a baseline, let’s look at the key specifications of the TVS iQube ST, the scooter that champions practicality and range in this segment.
| Specification | 2025 TVS iQube ST (5.1 kWh) |
| Battery Pack | 5.1 kWh Lithium-Ion |
| Real-World Range | ~140-150 km |
| Top Speed | 82 km/h |
| Key Feature | 32 Litres Under-seat Storage, 7-inch TFT Touchscreen |
| Charging Time | ~4.5 hours (0-80%) |
| Ex-Showroom Price | ~₹1.55 Lakh (Bengaluru) |
Price Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
Ex-showroom prices are just the starting point. The on-road price, including FAME-II subsidies, state policies, insurance, and RTO charges, is what truly matters. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect to pay for the top variants of these four titans in major Indian cities.
| Scooter Model | Delhi | Mumbai | Bengaluru |
| TVS iQube ST | ~₹1.75 Lakh | ~₹1.72 Lakh | ~₹1.70 Lakh |
| Ather 450X (3.7 kWh) | ~₹1.68 Lakh | ~₹1.65 Lakh | ~₹1.63 Lakh |
| Ola S1 Pro (Gen 2) | ~₹1.48 Lakh | ~₹1.45 Lakh | ~₹1.43 Lakh |
| Bajaj Chetak Premium | ~₹1.58 Lakh | ~₹1.55 Lakh | ~₹1.53 Lakh |
(Note: These are estimated on-road prices and can vary based on prevailing subsidies, dealer charges, and variant choices.)
Head-to-Head: The Four-Way Electric Scooter Battle
This is where the real fight happens. We pit the four biggest names against each other on the metrics that matter most to you, the buyer.
| Feature | TVS iQube ST | Ather 450X | Ola S1 Pro | Bajaj Chetak Premium |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | ~₹1.55 Lakh | ~₹1.45 Lakh | ~₹1.30 Lakh | ~₹1.35 Lakh |
| Battery | 5.1 kWh | 3.7 kWh | 4.0 kWh | 3.2 kWh |
| Real-World Range | ~140-150 km | ~110 km | ~130-140 km | ~100 km |
| Performance (Top Speed) | 82 km/h | 90 km/h | 120 km/h | 73 km/h |
| Key Feature/Weakness | Feature: Unmatched practicality (storage/range). Weakness: Conservative performance. | Feature: Razor-sharp handling & Warp mode. Weakness: Stiff ride, least comfortable. | Feature: Hyper-performance & tech features. Weakness: Inconsistent software & build quality. | Feature: Premium metal body & build quality. Weakness: Slowest charging & performance. |
Our Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
After extensive testing, it’s clear that there isn’t one “best” scooter, but there is a “best scooter for you.” Our expert take breaks it down based on your personality and needs.
- For the Practical Family Person: The TVS iQube ST
- During our test rides, the iQube’s plush suspension was the most comfortable, gliding over potholes where others felt harsh. For Indian city conditions, this is a massive advantage. What truly sets it apart is the cavernous 32-litre boot that easily swallows a full-face helmet and groceries. If your priority is range, comfort, and reliability for daily chores and office commutes, the iQube is the undisputed champion.
- For the Performance Enthusiast: The Ather 450X
- The moment you twist the throttle in ‘Warp’ mode, the Ather feels electric in a way the others don’t. Its sharp, communicative handling makes it feel like a surgical instrument for cutting through traffic. It’s not the most comfortable, but if you value a thrilling ride and best-in-class agility, the Ather 450X is your weapon of choice.
- For the Tech-Savvy Speed Demon: The Ola S1 Pro
- The Ola S1 Pro simply has no rival in terms of raw acceleration and top speed. Its massive touchscreen and feature list (like cruise control and proximity unlock) feel like they’re from a segment above. If you want the fastest, most feature-loaded scooter and are willing to navigate some potential software quirks, the S1 Pro delivers an unbeatable adrenaline rush.
- For the Style-Conscious Urbanite: The Bajaj Chetak
- The Chetak is an emotional purchase. Its flawless all-metal body and premium paint finish feel incredibly classy. It doesn’t win on specs, but it wins hearts with its timeless design and solid build quality. If you want an elegant, reliable scooter for relaxed city rides and appreciate that touch of retro class, the Chetak is in a league of its own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which electric scooter has the best real-world range in 2025?
The TVS iQube ST, with its large 5.1 kWh battery, currently offers the best and most consistent real-world range, realistically delivering 140-150 km, making it ideal for users with longer commutes.
Is the metal body of the Bajaj Chetak better for Indian conditions?
The Chetak’s metal body offers a premium feel and is perceived as more durable in case of minor impacts. However, it is also heavier and more expensive to repair if dented. The high-quality fiber bodies on the TVS and Ather are rust-proof and can absorb minor scuffs better.
Which scooter has the most under-seat storage?
The TVS iQube ST is the clear winner with 32 litres of storage, easily fitting two half-face helmets or one full-face helmet with room to spare. The Ola S1 Pro is a close second, while the Ather and Chetak offer significantly less space.
Ather 450X vs Ola S1 Pro: Which is better for performance?
The Ola S1 Pro has a higher top speed (120 km/h) and is faster in a straight line. The Ather 450X (90 km/h) offers superior handling, agility, and a more connected feel, making it more fun in corners and city traffic. Your choice depends on whether you prefer straight-line speed or cornering prowess.
