New OLA S1X : Ola’s finally cracked the code that’s eluded so many EV manufacturers – they’ve brought to market an electric scooter that doesn’t require a second mortgage. Starting at just ₹79,999 for the base 2kWh variant, the S1X undercuts many premium petrol scooters while promising virtually zero running costs beyond electricity.
The S1X comes in three distinct flavors – the entry-level 2kWh version, a middle-child 3kWh option at around ₹89,999, and the range-topping 4kWh variant priced at ₹1,09,999. Sure, that top-end price might make you wince initially, but do the math on what you’d spend on petrol over 3-4 years with today’s fuel prices, and suddenly it doesn’t seem so bad.
New OLA S1X Range That Actually Works For Real People
Let’s be real – most of us barely ride more than 30-40km daily. Ola clearly did their homework here, offering battery options that reflect actual usage patterns rather than chasing headline-grabbing range figures.
The base 2kWh pack delivers around 91km of claimed range – though expect closer to 70-75km in real-world conditions with traffic and the occasional heavy throttle hand. The 3kWh variant stretches this to about 141km claimed (probably 110-115km realistic), while the beefiest 4kWh version boasts 190km on paper.
What’s impressive is that they’ve managed this without making the scooter ungainly heavy. The base variant tips the scales at just 99kg, which is lighter than many petrol scooters. Even the 4kWh model stays under 121kg, keeping it manageable for riders of all sizes.
Design That Doesn’t Scream “Budget Option”
Aesthetically, the S1X borrows heavily from its pricier siblings in the Ola lineup, which is no bad thing. The rounded shoulder lines and clean profile avoid the awkward, gangly look that plagues many affordable EVs.
The projector headlight with its integrated DRL looks surprisingly premium, while the tail section features a swooping LED light that adds a touch of modern flair. Available in five colors (Porcelain White, Passion Red, Midnight Blue, Jet Black and Industrial Silver), there’s something for everyone’s taste.
Yes, if you look closely, you’ll spot the cost-cutting – slightly less premium plastic quality here, simpler switchgear there – but overall, this doesn’t scream “we made this cheap!” like so many budget offerings do.
Tech Features That Actually Matter
Ola’s approached technology from a usefulness-first perspective rather than just cramming in gimmicks for the spec sheet. The 7-inch digital display isn’t the flashiest you’ll find, but it’s crisp, legible in direct sunlight, and shows all the info you actually need.
The hill-hold function is genuinely useful, preventing that heart-stopping backward roll when you’re stopped on an incline. Similarly, the auto-indicator cutoff is one of those “why doesn’t every two-wheeler have this?” features. The three riding modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) let you balance between range and zippy performance depending on your needs.
No, there’s no fancy smartphone app with remote start or location tracking – features that sound cool in the brochure but rarely get used after the first week. Instead, Ola’s focused on stuff that actually improves the day-to-day riding experience.
Performance That Doesn’t Feel Like A Compromise
The hub-mounted motor pumps out 6kW of peak power, which translates to a claimed top speed of 90km/h. Acceleration isn’t exactly face-melting, but it’s more than adequate for urban riding, with enough pep to stay ahead of traffic when the lights go green.
The absence of gears makes riding in stop-go traffic a breeze – twist and go simplicity that new riders will particularly appreciate. Throttle response is smooth and predictable, without the jerky on-off feeling that plagues some cheaper electric two-wheelers.
Where the S1X really shines is in its refinement. There’s minimal motor whine, and vibrations are practically non-existent – creating an almost eerie sense of calm as you filter through chaotic traffic.
Practical Touches For Everyday Life
Ola’s clearly designed the S1X with actual users in mind rather than just focusing on glossy brochure specs. The flat floorboard offers generous foot space thanks to the new “Gen 2” platform architecture, while the under-seat storage swallows up to 34 liters of stuff – easily accommodating a full-face helmet with room to spare.
The telescopic front fork and twin rear shock absorbers do a decent job of soaking up our less-than-perfect roads, while the 12-inch wheels (larger than many competitors) help smooth out smaller bumps and provide stability.
The grab rail is well-positioned for passengers, and the seat offers reasonable comfort for both rider and pillion – though longer journeys might start testing your posterior’s patience after an hour or so.
New OLA S1X Charging Infrastructure That’s Actually Happening
One of Ola’s smartest moves has been their parallel focus on building out charging infrastructure alongside their vehicles. Their “Hypercharger” network now spans over 200 cities, with approximately 5,000 charging points already operational.
A typical hypercharger can juice up the S1X from 0-80% in about 45 minutes for the 4kWh variant, making intercity travel actually feasible. For daily use, the portable home charger tops up the batteries overnight, taking around 4.5 hours for a complete charge on the base model and up to 6.5 hours for the 4kWh version.
Unlike some competitors who seem to expect charging infrastructure to magically materialize, Ola’s proactive approach gives potential buyers confidence that they won’t be stranded with an expensive paperweight when the battery runs low.
In a market flooded with overpriced, underspecced electric two-wheelers, the S1X stands out as perhaps the first genuinely mass-market proposition that doesn’t ask riders to compromise. If Ola can maintain production quality while scaling up to meet what’s likely to be enormous demand, this could be the tipping point that finally pushes electric scooters into the mainstream.