Best Electric Scooters Under ₹1.5 Lakhs in India: 2026 Buying Guide

The electric scooter revolution in India is in full swing, and if you’re looking for the perfect blend of affordability, performance, and eco-friendliness, you’ve come to the right place. With petrol prices hovering around ₹100 per liter in many cities and the government’s strong push for electric mobility, 2026 is the perfect time to make the switch to an electric scooter.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll explore the best electric scooters under ₹1.5 lakhs available in India right now. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a college student, or someone looking to reduce their carbon footprint while saving money, we’ve got you covered with detailed comparisons, real-world insights, and expert recommendations.

Also Read

How to Increase Car Mileage Naturally: 20 Proven Tips to Boost Fuel Efficiency in 2026

Plugin developed by ProSEOBlogger. Get free gpl themes.

Why Choose an Electric Scooter in 2026?

Before diving into specific models, let’s understand why electric scooters are becoming the smart choice for Indian riders:

Financial Benefits:

Lower Running Costs: ₹0.50-1 per km vs ₹3-4 per km for petrol scooters
Minimal Maintenance: No engine oil changes, spark plugs, or complex servicing
Government Subsidies: FAME-II subsidy up to ₹15,000 on electric scooters
State Incentives: Additional ₹5,000-10,000 in states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat
Road Tax Exemption: Save ₹5,000-8,000 on registration
Lower Insurance: 10-15% cheaper than petrol scooters

Environmental Impact:

Zero Emissions: No tailpipe pollution contributing to cleaner air
Reduced Noise Pollution: Whisper-quiet operation
Sustainable Future: Contributing to India’s carbon neutrality goals

Practical Advantages:

Instant Torque: Better acceleration than petrol scooters
Home Charging: Charge overnight like your smartphone
Expanding Infrastructure: 7,000+ public charging stations across India
Low Vibration: Smoother, more comfortable rides

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore the top electric scooters under ₹1.5 lakhs that offer the best value for money in 2026.

Also Read

GPUpdate: How to Force a Group Policy Update Remotely in 2026 – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Plugin developed by ProSEOBlogger. Get free gpl themes.

1. Ola S1 Pro Gen 3: The Range Champion

Price: ₹1,29,999 (Ex-showroom Delhi, after FAME subsidy)

Real-World Range: 135-150 km

The Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 has been making waves in the Indian EV market with its impressive range, powerful performance, and aggressive pricing. Ola Electric has quickly become one of India’s largest electric scooter manufacturers, and for good reason.

Also Read

PHP pg_update() Function: Complete Guide to Update PostgreSQL Tables in 2026

Plugin developed by ProSEOBlogger. Get free gpl themes.

Key Specifications:

Battery Capacity: 4 kWh lithium-ion battery
Motor Power: 11 kW peak power (8.5 kW continuous)
Top Speed: 120 km/h (highest in this segment!)
Acceleration: 0-40 km/h in 2.9 seconds
Weight: 125 kg
Load Capacity: 181 kg (including rider)
Charging Time: 0-80% in 5.5 hours (home charging)

Standout Features:

MoveOS 4.0 Software:
The Ola S1 Pro runs on MoveOS 4.0, one of the most advanced operating systems in any Indian electric scooter. Key features include:

Over-the-Air Updates: Regular software improvements delivered wirelessly
3 Riding Modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, Hyper (yes, 4 modes!)
Cruise Control: Set your speed on highways
Hill Hold Assist: Prevents rollback on inclines
Navigation: Built-in Google Maps integration
Voice Assistant: Control functions through voice commands

Design & Build:

Also Read

How to Download Windows 10 on Chrome: Complete Installation Guide 2026

Plugin developed by ProSEOBlogger. Get free gpl themes.

7-inch TFT touchscreen display
Single-sided front suspension (unique design)
All-LED lighting with distinctive DRL pattern
Available in 10+ vibrant colors
Reverse mode for easy parking
IP67 water resistance rating

Real-World Performance:

Based on thousands of owner reviews and our testing:

City Riding: 140-150 km on Eco mode, 100-110 km on Normal mode
Highway Riding: 85-95 km at 60-70 km/h speeds
Mixed Use: 120-130 km (typical daily use scenario)

Pros:

✅ Longest range in the segment
✅ Highest top speed (120 km/h)
✅ Advanced software with regular updates
✅ Large touchscreen with navigation
✅ Aggressive pricing
✅ Growing service network (500+ centers)
✅ Multiple color options

Cons:

❌ Build quality concerns reported by some users
❌ After-sales service issues in some cities
❌ Heavier than competitors
❌ No dedicated charging network yet

Best For:

Long-distance commuters (30+ km daily)
Tech enthusiasts who love software features
Riders who prioritize range over everything
Those who don’t mind occasional service delays

Official Website: Ola Electric

2. Ather 450X Gen 3: The Premium Tech Leader

Price: ₹1,46,926 (Ex-showroom Bangalore, after FAME subsidy)

Real-World Range: 105-115 km

The Ather 450X is widely regarded as the most refined and premium electric scooter in India. Known for exceptional build quality, superior performance, and best-in-class after-sales service, Ather has set the benchmark for electric scooters in India.

Key Specifications:

Battery Capacity: 3.7 kWh lithium-ion battery
Motor Power: 7.3 kW peak power (6.2 kW continuous)
Top Speed: 90 km/h (limited for safety)
Acceleration: 0-40 km/h in 3.3 seconds
Weight: 108 kg (one of the lightest)
Load Capacity: 150 kg
Charging Time: 0-80% in 3.5 hours (Ather Grid fast charger)

Standout Features:

Premium Build Quality:
What sets Ather apart is the attention to detail:

Metal Body Panels: Unlike plastic on most scooters
Premium Paint Finish: Automotive-grade 7-layer coating
Telescopic Front Suspension: Borrowed from motorcycles
Disc Brakes on Both Wheels: Superior stopping power
Auto Hold: Brakes hold automatically at traffic lights

Smart Features:

7-inch TFT touchscreen with auto-brightness
Google Maps navigation with turn-by-turn directions
Ather Stack for deep vehicle analytics
Emergency contacts notification in case of accident
Document storage (insurance, RC) in app
Fall detection with automatic assistance call

Ride Modes:

Eco Mode: Maximum range (110-115 km)
Ride Mode: Balanced performance (85-95 km)
Sport Mode: Maximum performance (70-75 km)
Warp Mode: Insane acceleration (requires unlocking)

Charging Infrastructure:

Ather’s biggest advantage is the Ather Grid – India’s largest fast-charging network for two-wheelers:

1,500+ Ather Grid fast charging points across 100+ cities
Charges 0-80% in just 3.5 hours
Free charging at Ather Grid points (with subscription)
Home charger included with every purchase

Real-World Performance:

City Commute: 105-115 km on Eco mode
Spirited Riding: 75-85 km on Sport/Warp modes
Hill Climbing: Excellent torque delivery even on steep inclines
Highway: Stable at 80-85 km/h cruising speeds

Pros:

✅ Best build quality in the segment
✅ Most refined riding experience
✅ Excellent after-sales service
✅ Dedicated fast-charging network (Ather Grid)
✅ Advanced safety features
✅ Regular OTA software updates
✅ Premium metal body panels
✅ Best resale value among electric scooters

Cons:

❌ Higher price point
❌ Lower top speed compared to Ola (90 km/h vs 120 km/h)
❌ Slightly lower range than Ola S1 Pro
❌ Limited color options (3-4 colors)

Best For:

Riders who prioritize quality over features
Premium segment buyers
Those who value excellent after-sales support
Cities with Ather Grid charging infrastructure
Riders willing to pay extra for peace of mind

Official Website: Ather Energy

3. TVS iQube ST: The Reliable Performer

Price: ₹1,17,621 (Ex-showroom Delhi, after FAME subsidy)

Real-World Range: 100-110 km

The TVS iQube ST brings the reliability and trust of TVS Motor Company into the electric scooter segment. With TVS’s 40+ years of two-wheeler experience and extensive service network, the iQube offers peace of mind that many new EV startups can’t match.

Key Specifications:

Battery Capacity: 4.56 kWh lithium-ion battery
Motor Power: 4.4 kW peak power (3.2 kW continuous)
Top Speed: 82 km/h
Acceleration: 0-40 km/h in 4.2 seconds
Weight: 118 kg
Load Capacity: 150 kg
Charging Time: 0-80% in 4.5 hours (home charging)

Standout Features:

TVS SmartXonnect:
The iQube comes with TVS’s connected scooter technology:

7-inch TFT touchscreen (one of the largest)
Turn-by-turn navigation
Bluetooth connectivity
Incoming call and message alerts
Music control
Geo-fencing and location tracking
Battery status monitoring

Practical Design:

28-Liter Boot Space: Largest underseat storage in segment
Dedicated Charging Socket: Charge your phone while riding
LED Lighting: All-LED headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators
Tubeless Tires: Better puncture resistance
Combined Braking System: Safer braking
Digital Key: Use your phone to unlock/lock scooter

Battery Management:
TVS offers one of the best battery warranty packages:

8-year/80,000 km battery warranty
IntelliGO technology for battery optimization
Real-time battery health monitoring
Temperature management system
Regenerative braking for extended range

Service Network Advantage:

This is where TVS shines:

3,000+ service centers across India (more than any EV brand)
Same-day service at most centers
Genuine spare parts readily available
Trained technicians in every major city
Roadside assistance 24/7

Real-World Performance:

Eco Mode: 100-110 km range
Power Mode: 75-85 km range
Mixed Riding: 90-100 km
Consistent Performance: Even after 2-3 years of use

Pros:

✅ TVS brand reliability and trust
✅ India’s largest service network for EVs
✅ Excellent build quality
✅ Largest boot space (28 liters)
✅ Best battery warranty (8 years/80,000 km)
✅ Comfortable riding position
✅ Good range for daily commutes
✅ Available in multiple variants

Cons:

❌ Lower top speed (82 km/h)
❌ Conservative performance tuning
❌ Fewer riding modes than competitors
❌ Less aggressive pricing than Ola
❌ Slower acceleration compared to Ather/Ola

Best For:

Riders who value reliability over performance
Those who prefer established brands
Cities without Ola/Ather presence
Families buying their first EV
Riders who need large boot space
Those who travel frequently (nationwide service network)

Official Website: TVS iQube

4. Bajaj Chetak: The Heritage Icon Goes Electric

Price: ₹1,27,430 (Ex-showroom Pune, after FAME subsidy)

Real-World Range: 90-95 km

The Bajaj Chetak nameplate carries immense nostalgia for Indian families. After discontinuing the iconic petrol Chetak in 2009, Bajaj revived the brand as an electric scooter in 2020. The Chetak combines classic design with modern electric technology.

Key Specifications:

Battery Capacity: 3 kWh lithium-ion battery
Motor Power: 4.2 kW peak power
Top Speed: 73 km/h
Acceleration: 0-40 km/h in 4.9 seconds
Weight: 118 kg
Load Capacity: 150 kg
Charging Time: 0-100% in 5 hours (home charging)

Standout Features:

Retro-Modern Design:

Classic Chetak-inspired styling
Metal body construction (no plastic panels)
LED DRL (Daytime Running Lights)
Unique single-piece seat design
Available in sophisticated colors
Premium fit and finish

Safety Features:

Feather Touch Braking: Electronic braking system
Reverse Parking Assist: Easy maneuvering in tight spaces
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Optional on premium variant
Uphill Assist: Prevents rollback on slopes
IP67 Waterproof Battery: Monsoon-proof design

Smart Connectivity:

Chetak Connect mobile app
Battery status monitoring
Ride statistics
Service reminders
Find my scooter feature
Geo-fencing alerts

Build Quality:

Bajaj has focused heavily on quality:

Metal Body Panels: No plastic cladding
Premium Paint: Multiple coats for durability
Robust Chassis: Steel construction
Sealed Battery Pack: Protected from water and dust
Quality Components: Sourced from trusted suppliers

Real-World Performance:

Eco Mode: 90-95 km range
Sport Mode: 70-75 km range
Typical Use: 85 km average
Best Speed: 60-65 km/h cruising is optimal

Pros:

✅ Heritage brand value and trust
✅ Premium metal body construction
✅ Excellent build quality
✅ Sophisticated design
✅ Good after-sales service (Bajaj network)
✅ Safe and reliable
✅ IP67 waterproof battery
✅ Reverse parking feature

Cons:

❌ Lower range compared to competitors
❌ Limited top speed (73 km/h)
❌ Higher price for the range offered
❌ Smaller battery capacity
❌ Slower acceleration
❌ Limited color options
❌ Heavier feel while riding

Best For:

Riders who value brand heritage
Those who prefer classic design over modern looks
Safety-conscious buyers
Short-distance commuters (20-30 km daily)
Buyers who prioritize build quality
Families with existing Bajaj brand loyalty

Official Website: Bajaj Chetak

Quick Comparison Table: All 4 Scooters at a Glance

Feature	Ola S1 Pro	Ather 450X	TVS iQube ST	Bajaj Chetak
Price (Delhi)	₹1,29,999	₹1,46,926	₹1,17,621	₹1,27,430
Real Range	135-150 km	105-115 km	100-110 km	90-95 km
Top Speed	120 km/h	90 km/h	82 km/h	73 km/h
Battery	4 kWh	3.7 kWh	4.56 kWh	3 kWh
0-40 km/h	2.9 sec	3.3 sec	4.2 sec	4.9 sec
Boot Space	36 L	22 L	28 L	18 L
Screen Size	7 inch	7 inch	7 inch	5 inch
Charging Time	5.5 hrs	3.5 hrs	4.5 hrs	5 hrs
Service Centers	500+	150+	3,000+	800+
Warranty	3yr/50k km	3yr/30k km	8yr/80k km	3yr/50k km
Best For	Range & Speed	Premium Quality	Reliability	Classic Design

Electric Scooter Buying Guide: What to Consider

1. Daily Commute Distance

Under 30 km daily:

All four scooters will work well
Choose based on features and price
Bajaj Chetak or TVS iQube are sufficient

30-50 km daily:

Ola S1 Pro or TVS iQube recommended
Ather 450X also suitable
Avoid Bajaj Chetak (limited range)

50+ km daily:

Ola S1 Pro is the clear winner
Ather 450X if you have access to fast charging
Consider buying an additional charger for office

2. Charging Situation

Have Home Parking with Power:

All scooters work well
Charge overnight (8-10 PM to 6-7 AM)
Most economical option

No Home Charging:

Ather 450X (access to Ather Grid)
Check for public charging near your area
Some societies now installing EV chargers

Frequent Long Trips:

Ola S1 Pro (longest range)
Ather 450X (fast charging network)
Portable charger recommended

3. Riding Style

Conservative/Eco-Conscious:

TVS iQube ST (best efficiency)
Bajaj Chetak (relaxed performance)
Focus on maximizing range

Performance-Oriented:

Ola S1 Pro (highest speed, quickest acceleration)
Ather 450X (best handling, Warp mode)
Sport modes for thrilling rides

Balanced Approach:

Ather 450X (multiple modes)
Ola S1 Pro (4 riding modes)
Switch based on need

4. Budget Considerations

Tightest Budget (₹1.1-1.2L):

TVS iQube ST (₹1,17,621)
Best value for money
Extensive service network

Mid-Range (₹1.2-1.3L):

Bajaj Chetak (₹1,27,430)
Ola S1 Pro (₹1,29,999)
Good balance of features and price

Premium Willing (₹1.4-1.5L):

Ather 450X (₹1,46,926)
Best overall experience
Worth the premium for quality

5. Service Network Priority

Nationwide Service Important:

TVS iQube (3,000+ centers) – BEST
Bajaj Chetak (800+ centers)
Ola S1 Pro (500+ centers)
Ather 450X (150+ centers, but expanding)

Metro Cities Only:

All brands have good presence
Ather’s service quality is best
Ola expanding rapidly

State-Wise Subsidy & Total Cost Breakdown

Electric scooter prices vary significantly across states due to different subsidy structures. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Delhi

FAME-II Subsidy: ₹15,000
Delhi EV Policy: ₹5,000 (on scooters up to 2 kW)
Road Tax: Exempted (save ₹5,000-7,000)
Total Savings: ₹25,000-27,000

Final Prices in Delhi:

Ola S1 Pro: ₹1,29,999
Ather 450X: ₹1,46,926
TVS iQube: ₹1,17,621
Bajaj Chetak: ₹1,27,430

Maharashtra (Mumbai/Pune)

FAME-II Subsidy: ₹15,000
State Subsidy: ₹10,000
Road Tax: Exempted
Total Savings: ₹30,000-35,000

Gujarat (Ahmedabad/Surat)

FAME-II Subsidy: ₹15,000
State Subsidy: ₹10,000 (first 1 lakh scooters)
Road Tax: Exempted
Total Savings: ₹30,000-35,000

Karnataka (Bangalore)

FAME-II Subsidy: ₹15,000
State Subsidy: ₹10,000
Road Tax: Exempted
Total Savings: ₹30,000-35,000

Tamil Nadu (Chennai)

FAME-II Subsidy: ₹15,000
State Subsidy: ₹5,000
Road Tax: Exempted
Total Savings: ₹25,000-30,000

Telangana (Hyderabad)

FAME-II Subsidy: ₹15,000
State Subsidy: Upto ₹12,000
Road Tax: Exempted
Total Savings: ₹30,000-35,000

Pro Tip: Always check the latest state EV policy as subsidies are subject to change. Visit your state transport department website for accurate information.

5-Year Cost of Ownership Analysis

Let’s compare the total cost of owning an electric scooter vs a petrol scooter over 5 years:

Electric Scooter (Ola S1 Pro as example)

Purchase Price: ₹1,29,999

Running Costs (50 km daily, 18,000 km/year):

Electricity: ₹0.80/km = ₹14,400/year
Maintenance: ₹1,500/year (minimal servicing)
Insurance: ₹3,000/year (year 1), reduces thereafter
Total per year: ₹18,900

5-Year Total: ₹1,29,999 + (₹18,900 × 5) = ₹2,24,499

Petrol Scooter (Honda Activa 125 as example)

Purchase Price: ₹90,000

Running Costs (50 km daily, 18,000 km/year):

Petrol: ₹3.50/km = ₹63,000/year (at ₹100/liter, 50 km/l mileage)
Maintenance: ₹8,000/year (oil changes, servicing, repairs)
Insurance: ₹3,500/year
Total per year: ₹74,500

5-Year Total: ₹90,000 + (₹74,500 × 5) = ₹4,62,500

Savings with Electric Scooter: ₹2,38,001 over 5 years!

Even with a higher purchase price, you save approximately ₹2.38 lakhs over 5 years by choosing electric!

Charging Infrastructure in India: 2026 Update

One of the biggest concerns for electric scooter buyers has been charging infrastructure. Here’s the current status:

Home Charging (Primary Method)

Installation Cost: ₹2,000-5,000 for basic setup
Charging Time: 4-6 hours for full charge
Cost per Charge: ₹15-25 (depending on electricity rates)
Convenience: Charge overnight like your phone

Public Charging Stations

Ather Grid: 1,500+ locations, free with subscription
Tata Power: 600+ locations
Other Networks: 500+ locations
Growth Rate: Adding 200+ stations monthly

Workplace Charging

Many IT companies now providing EV charging
Malls and shopping centers adding charging bays
Residential complexes installing common charging points

Battery Swapping (Emerging)

Ola planning battery swap stations
Sun Mobility deploying swap infrastructure
Quick 2-minute battery swap vs 4-hour charging

Common Myths About Electric Scooters – BUSTED!

Myth 1: "Electric scooters don’t work in rain"

Reality: All modern electric scooters have IP67 waterproof ratings. You can ride safely in heavy rain. TVS iQube and Ather 450X have been tested extensively in monsoons.

Myth 2: "Battery replacement costs ₹50,000-60,000"

Reality: All manufacturers offer 3-8 year battery warranties. By the time warranty expires, battery costs will have dropped significantly. Current replacement cost is ₹35,000-45,000 and falling.

Myth 3: "Range drops by 50% after 1 year"

Reality: Modern lithium-ion batteries retain 85-90% capacity even after 3-4 years. Ola, Ather, and TVS all use high-quality cells with minimal degradation.

Myth 4: "Charging takes the entire night"

Reality: Most scooters charge 0-80% in 3-5 hours. You typically don’t need to charge from 0% daily. Ather Grid fast chargers do 0-80% in 3.5 hours.

Myth 5: "Electric scooters catch fire easily"

Reality: Fire incidents are rare and usually due to poor quality battery cells or improper charging. Ola, Ather, TVS, and Bajaj use certified batteries with BMS (Battery Management System) protection.

Myth 6: "Resale value is zero"

Reality: Ather 450X retains 60-65% value after 2 years. Growing demand for used EVs is improving resale values. TVS and Bajaj EVs also hold value well due to brand trust.

Expert Tips for Electric Scooter Ownership

Maximizing Range:

Ride in Eco Mode for daily commutes
Maintain Optimal Tire Pressure (Check monthly)
Avoid Frequent Full-Throttle Acceleration
Use Regenerative Braking effectively
Keep Battery Between 20-80% for longevity
Avoid Extreme Temperatures when parking

Charging Best Practices:

Don’t Wait for 0%: Charge when you reach 20-30%
Don’t Always Charge to 100%: 80% is sufficient for daily use
Use Original Charger: Third-party chargers may damage battery
Charge in Well-Ventilated Area: Avoid enclosed spaces
Unplug After Full Charge: Don’t leave plugged in for days
Monthly Deep Cycle: Once a month, do 10-100% charge

Maintenance Schedule:

Monthly: Tire pressure, brake check, clean scooter
Every 3 Months: General service check
Every 6 Months: Brake pad inspection, suspension check
Yearly: Comprehensive service, software updates

Which Electric Scooter Should YOU Buy?

Based on different user profiles, here are our recommendations:

For Daily Office Commute (20-30 km):

Winner: TVS iQube ST

Reliable performance
Excellent service network
Comfortable riding position
Best battery warranty (8 years)
₹1,17,621 – Good value

For Tech Enthusiasts:

Winner: Ola S1 Pro Gen 3

Advanced MoveOS software
Regular OTA updates
Large touchscreen with navigation
Multiple riding modes
₹1,29,999 – Feature-packed

For Long-Distance Riders (40-50 km daily):

Winner: Ola S1 Pro Gen 3

135-150 km real-world range
Fast acceleration for highway
120 km/h top speed
Large boot space
₹1,29,999 – Range king

For Premium Quality Seekers:

Winner: Ather 450X Gen 3

Best build quality
Superior riding dynamics
Excellent after-sales service
Ather Grid charging network
₹1,46,926 – Worth the premium

For Classic Design Lovers:

Winner: Bajaj Chetak

Retro-modern styling
Metal body construction
Heritage brand value
Safe and reliable
₹1,27,430 – Classic choice

For First-Time EV Buyers:

Winner: TVS iQube ST

Trusted TVS brand
3,000+ service centers
Simple, straightforward operation
Good range and performance
₹1,17,621 – Safe choice

Best Overall Value:

Winner: Ola S1 Pro Gen 3

Best range in segment
Competitive pricing
Advanced features
Growing service network
₹1,29,999 – Maximum bang for buck

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do electric scooter batteries last?

Answer: Modern electric scooter batteries are designed to last 5-8 years or 50,000-80,000 km with minimal degradation. All major brands (Ola, Ather, TVS, Bajaj) offer 3-8 year battery warranties. Expect 85-90% capacity retention even after 4-5 years of regular use.

2. Can I charge my electric scooter from a regular home socket?

Answer: Yes, absolutely! All electric scooters in India come with portable chargers that work with standard 5A/15A home power sockets. You don’t need any special installation for basic charging. However, a dedicated charging point is recommended for safety and convenience.

3. What happens if my battery dies while riding?

Answer: Modern electric scooters provide multiple low-battery warnings (at 20%, 10%, and 5%). If you do run out of charge, most manufacturers provide roadside assistance. You can also push the scooter (it’s not heavy), or call for recovery. Range anxiety is largely a non-issue with proper planning.

4. Are electric scooters allowed on highways?

Answer: Yes, electric scooters with speeds above 25 km/h require registration and can legally ride on highways. However, for long highway journeys, scooters with higher top speeds (Ola S1 Pro at 120 km/h or Ather 450X at 90 km/h) are more suitable and comfortable.

5. How much does it cost to charge an electric scooter?

Answer: A full charge costs ₹15-25 depending on your electricity tariff and battery size. This gives you 90-150 km range. Comparatively, the same distance on a petrol scooter would cost ₹180-300 in fuel. You save about 85-90% on running costs!

6. Do electric scooters require a driving license?

Answer: Yes, electric scooters with top speed above 25 km/h require a valid two-wheeler driving license (just like petrol scooters). You also need registration, insurance, and must wear a helmet while riding.

7. Can I ride an electric scooter in heavy rain?

Answer: Yes! All modern electric scooters have IP67 waterproof ratings, meaning they’re protected against water immersion up to 1 meter depth. You can safely ride in heavy rain. However, avoid riding through deep water puddles (above wheel level) to be safe.

8. What is the maintenance cost of electric scooters?

Answer: Electric scooters have 60-70% lower maintenance costs compared to petrol scooters. Annual maintenance typically costs ₹1,500-3,000 vs ₹8,000-12,000 for petrol scooters. There’s no engine oil, spark plugs, air filters, or exhaust system to maintain. Main costs are tire replacement and brake pads.

9. How do I claim government subsidies?

Answer: The FAME-II subsidy is automatically deducted from the ex-showroom price by dealers. State subsidies vary – some are auto-deducted, while others require you to apply after purchase. Check with your dealer or state transport website for the exact process. Keep all purchase documents and Aadhaar card handy.

10. Is insurance cheaper for electric scooters?

Answer: Yes, electric scooter insurance is typically 10-15% cheaper than petrol scooters due to lower vehicle value and reduced fire risk. Third-party insurance is mandatory, and comprehensive insurance is highly recommended. Annual premium ranges from ₹2,500-4,000 depending on the model.

Our Final Verdict: The Best Electric Scooter Under ₹1.5 Lakhs

After extensive analysis of specifications, real-world performance, owner feedback, and overall value, here’s our final recommendation:

🥇 Overall Winner: Ola S1 Pro Gen 3

Why?

Best range (135-150 km real-world)
Highest performance (120 km/h top speed)
Most advanced software features
Competitive pricing (₹1,29,999)
Growing service network
Regular OTA updates keep it fresh
Best value for money

Perfect For: Most buyers who want the best overall package of range, performance, features, and price.

🥈 Premium Choice: Ather 450X Gen 3

Why?

Best build quality and refinement
Excellent after-sales service
Ather Grid charging network
Superior riding dynamics
Premium feel worth the extra cost
Best resale value

Perfect For: Buyers who prioritize quality, service, and are willing to pay a premium for the best experience.

🥉 Reliable Choice: TVS iQube ST

Why?

TVS brand trust and reliability
Largest service network (3,000+ centers)
Best battery warranty (8 years/80,000 km)
Good balance of features and price
Most affordable option

Perfect For: First-time EV buyers, those who value brand trust and service network over cutting-edge features.

Ready to Make the Switch?

2026 is the perfect time to join India’s electric vehicle revolution. With improving infrastructure, generous subsidies, and mature products from trusted manufacturers, there’s never been a better time to buy an electric scooter.

Whether you choose the feature-rich Ola S1 Pro, the premium Ather 450X, the reliable TVS iQube, or the classic Bajaj Chetak, you’re making a smart choice for your wallet and the environment.

Pro Tip: Visit dealerships, take test rides of at least 2-3 models, and check charging infrastructure in your area before making the final decision. Most dealers offer home test rides for serious buyers.