TVS Orbiter EV Launched: The New Benchmark for Affordable Electric Scooters
TVS Motor Company has officially launched its highly anticipated electric scooter, the TVS Orbiter EV, setting a new benchmark for affordability and feature-rich urban mobility. The Orbiter is priced at a competitive ex-showroom price of ₹99,900 (inclusive of the PM e-Drive scheme in Bengaluru and New Delhi), making it TVS's most accessible electric offering yet. With a certified range of 158 km on a single charge and a host of smart features, the Orbiter is poised to disrupt the burgeoning entry-level electric scooter market in India.
Performance and Battery: The Core of the Orbiter
The TVS Orbiter is designed to alleviate one of the biggest concerns for potential EV buyers: range anxiety. It comes equipped with a 3.1 kWh battery pack that delivers a remarkable IDC (Indian Driving Cycle) certified range of 158 km. While the real-world range may vary based on riding conditions, this figure is a significant leap forward in the sub-₹1 lakh category, outclassing many of its direct competitors. The company has not yet provided an official charging time, but it is expected to be a standard charge from a home wall socket, with fast-charging capabilities likely to be a future update. The scooter is also equipped with two riding modes—Eco and Power—with regenerative braking available in both to help extend the range.
The Orbiter's powertrain features a hub-mounted motor, which is a common and efficient setup for electric scooters in this segment. While the full specifications of the motor have not been released, it is designed for a balance of efficiency and performance, delivering a top speed of 68 km/h and a quick acceleration from 0 to 40 km/h in 6.8 seconds, making it well-suited for city commutes.
Smart Features and Connectivity
The TVS Orbiter is not just about performance; it is also packed with intelligent features that enhance the riding experience. The scooter features a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, which integrates with the TVS SmartXonnect app. This app offers a suite of connected features, including:
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Call and SMS alerts on the dashboard
- Geo-fencing and time-fencing
- Anti-theft alerts and live location tracking
- Crash and fall alerts that can send notifications to emergency contacts
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates to keep the scooter's software up to date
In a move that sets it apart from its rivals, the Orbiter also comes with cruise control and hill-hold assist, features typically found in premium two-wheelers. The scooter also includes a reverse parking assist mode, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Design and Ergonomics
The TVS Orbiter sports a simple yet modern design, aimed at both young riders and families. The scooter features a flat, commuter-style body with smooth lines, a long 845 mm flat-form seat, and a straight-line footboard that offers ample legroom. This design prioritizes rider and pillion comfort, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and running errands.
A key highlight of the Orbiter's design is its storage capacity. It comes with a cavernous 34-litre under-seat storage that is large enough to accommodate two helmets, a rare feature in this segment. The scooter also includes a USB charging port for added convenience. The lighting setup is all-LED, with a horizontally placed oval-shaped headlamp and a slim LED DRL strip on the front apron, giving it a distinct and stylish look. The Orbiter will be available in six dual-tone color options: Neon Sunburst, Stratos Blue, Lunar Grey, Stellar Silver, Cosmic Titanium, and Martian Copper.
Market Positioning and Competition
The TVS Orbiter is strategically positioned as a direct competitor to other popular entry-level electric scooters, including the Ola S1 X, Bajaj Chetak Urbane, and Ather Rizta. By offering a longer range and a host of premium features at an aggressive price point, TVS is aiming to capture a significant share of the fast-growing EV market.
The launch of the Orbiter further solidifies TVS's commitment to electric mobility, as stated by Gaurav Gupta, President, India 2W Business, TVS Motor Company. The company, which already has the iQube and the TVS X in its electric portfolio, is now offering a more accessible option to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in India. Bookings for the TVS Orbiter are now open online and at TVS showrooms nationwide.
In a market where consumers are increasingly looking for a balance of affordability, range, and features, the TVS Orbiter appears to be a well-rounded and compelling package. Its launch is a clear indication that the electric two-wheeler segment is maturing, with manufacturers focusing on delivering practical and value-for-money products for the Indian consumer
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