Ola Electric forays into commercial segment with e-scooter priced at Rs 39,999
NEW DELHI: Ola Electric on Tuesday announced it will enter the commercial segment with the launch of ‘Gig’ range of scooters at an introductory price of Rs 39,999, targeting gig workers.
The company also launched its S1 Z model, an electric scooter for personal use and targeted to reach urban commuters, priced at Rs 59,999.
It is to cater to the needs of gig workers moving for both shorter and longer trips that Ola Electric has introduced two variants called ‘Gig’ and ‘Gig+’ with introductory prices of Rs 39,999 and Rs 49,999 respectively, ex-showroom. The range will also be available for business-to-business (B2B) purchases and rentals, the company said in a statement.
It targets the gig workers who take a shorter ride. It has a range of 112 km on single charge, with a top speed of 25 kmph and features a removable 1.5 kWh battery and a hub motor.
The Gig+, for its part, is long-distance to begin with since it can travel farther distances with greater payloads. It reaches a top speed of 45 km/hr and features a single/dual removable battery pack with a capacity of 1.5 kWh, good for as much as 81 kilometers of range for running, at least in theory.
“With the launch of Ola Gig and S1 Z range of scooters, we will further accelerate EV adoption catering to a wide range of personal and commercial use cases with affordability, reliability, and safety as core pillars,” said Bhavish Aggarwal, Ola Electric Chairman & Managing Director.
The company launched two variants, ‘S1 Z’ and ‘S1 Z+’, priced at introductory prices of Rs 59,999 and Rs 64,999 respectively under the S1 Z series.
While S1 Z is for personal use electric scooter with an emphasis on urban commuters who are picky about style, performance, and convenience, Ola Electric said the ‘S1 Z+’ is a dual usage electric scooter intended for personal as well as light commercial use with a robust body.
The S1 Z and S1 Z+ comes with double removable 1.5 kWh batteries and delivers up to a driving range of 75 km, offering a top speed of 70 kmph.
The company also has in its product portfolio PowerPod, the inverter that runs homes through its portable batteries, for a mere Rs 9,999.
#Lets compare Ola S1 Z to other electric scooters in the same price range?
The Ola S1 Z, priced at ₹59,999, stands out in its segment of electric scooters, particularly when compared to competitors like the Ather 450X and TVS iQube. Here’s how it compares:
-Performance: The S1 Z features a 2.9 kW hub motor, achieving a top speed of 70 km/h. In contrast, the Ather 450X offers up to 80 km/h, while the TVS iQube reaches about 78 km/h.
-Range: The IDC-certified range of S1 Z is covered with a single battery of 75 km and up to 146 km with dual batteries. Ather 450X offers around 116 km, and the TVS iQube claims around 75 km.
-Battery and Charging: The S1 Z sports double removable 1.5 kWh batteries, making charging flexible. This is a unique feature at this price compared to other competitors, who offer fixed batteries.
-Acceleration: S1 Z can accelerate from 0-20 km/h within 1.8 seconds, which places it in a competitive run but not as swift as the Ather 450X.
The Ola S1 Z can be classified as a Low-Cost Product With Practical Features for Commute Mode in an Urban Setting. This definitely attracts price-conscious consumers seeking flexibility with the option to remove batteries.
#What is the comparison in the range of Ola S1 Z to other scooters in the same category?
The Ola S1 Z falls into a competitive range of other electric scooters in the same class. Here is a comparative view of how it measures up:
-Ola S1 Z: single battery with an IDC certificate to last up to 75 km, and a dual 1.5 kWh battery going up to 146 km.
READ ALSO: 15 Best places in Europe for a perfect family trip
READ ALSO: Top 15 best things to do in Seattle (2024)
-Ather 450X: Offers a range of about 116 km, making it apt for longer commutes in urban areas.
TVS iQube: Claims a range of about 75 km, similar to the S1 Z with a single battery.
-Hero Electric Optima: Offers around 82 km, which is slightly higher than the S1 Z’s single battery range but lower than the dual battery option.
Overall, the Ola S1 Z’s dual battery capability allows it to outperform most competitors with regard to maximum range, making it one of the attractive options for urban commuters seeking flexibility and efficiency.
#What is the required maintenance of the Ola S1 Z?
The required maintenance for the Ola S1 Z is regular servicing and basic upkeep in order to ensure optimal performance:
-Servicing Schedule: Servicing of the scooter must be done every 6 months or after 5,000 km, whichever is sooner. This is supplemented with brake checks, suspension, and tires, as well as thorough checks on lights and battery health.
-Battery Maintenance: Regular charging is imperative to prevent total discharge, and the battery must always be kept away from extreme temperatures.
-DIY Servicing: Basic servicing includes checking tire pressure, cleaning the scooter. The complex problems should be repaired in authorized service centres in order to enjoy warranty issues.
-Authorized Service Centers: Repairs and Servicing: These should be done only at the authorized service centers to enjoy genuine spare parts and proper handling of technicians.
If these guidelines are followed, then the scooter can enjoy good performance and longevity.
#Are there specific cleaning products for the Ola S1 Z to use?
To clean your Ola S1 Z, here are some recommended cleaning products and methods for the scooter to be safe for a long time and to maintain its appearance:
-Gentle Cleaning Solutions: Use the mild, pH-balanced soap or a two-wheeler washing solution specifically designed for vehicles. Avoid using harsh chemicals, dishwashing liquids, or glass cleaners, as these can damage the paint and components.
-Use soft cloths made of microfiber for drying and wiping to prevent scratches on the surface.
-Avoid high-pressure washes
Avoid high-pressure water or steam cleaners, which can damage electronic components and seals. Gently spray or wash manually using a sponge.
-Cleaning procedure: First use low pressure water spray to remove loose dirt, then use the cleaning solution to wash the body and the wheels with separate sponges. Finally, rinse with low pressure water and dry completely.
Implementation of this process helps keep the Ola S1 Z in an original shape with all its functionalities intact and with no probable damage from bad cleaning procedures.
#How can I prevent water damage on the Ola S1 Z?
Precautions to take against water damage on the Ola S1 Z are:
Avoid Deep Water and Heavy Rain: Though the scooter is water-resistant, avoid riding through deep puddles or during heavy downpours to avoid exposure to water.
-Install a Touch Screen Protector: Apply a high-quality touch screen protector. This could help protect the display from moisture and dirt, thus improving overall protection against water damage .
-Dry Off Immediately After Wet Exposure: Dry the scooter off as soon as possible with a focus on electronic parts and connectors to eliminate corrosion .
-Store in Dry Conditions: Store the scooter in a dry place after wet rides so that any remaining moisture can evaporate
-Cover Charging Ports: Make sure charging ports are covered when not in use to ensure water doesn’t enter through the ports during rain or washing
Following these guidelines will help protect your Ola S1 Z from potential water damage.
#Are there waterproof covers for the Ola S1 Z?
Yes, there are waterproof covers available for the Ola S1 Z. One option is the LION Best Quality Fitting Rainy Cover, which is designed specifically for Ola scooters. This cover is durable and waterproof, providing protection for the display and keeping it safe from rain and moisture while maintaining clear visibility. Such covers are essential for safeguarding your scooter’s electronic components during wet weather conditions.
#Are there any waterproof covers designed for the Ola S1 Z for its display?
Yes, there are waterproof covers designed for the screen on the Ola S1 Z. The LION Best Quality Fitting Rainy Cover can be considered with its snug fitting that keeps the display safe and dry while in wet conditions yet unobstructed view, more so, high-quality touch screen protectors for resistance against scratches by water and dust, and this will improve overall strength of the scooter’s navigation system.
#Do waterproof covers that also provide UV protection exist for the Ola S1 Z?
Yes, waterproof covers for the Ola S1 Z do exist that also offer UV protection. The Ola scooter cover from Shivaye is waterproof and dust free, designed to keep your vehicle safe under various weather conditions. While the specific UV protection feature does not feature in the results, most good quality scooter covers will include UV resistant materials to be protected from sun fade. This cover is perfectly suited to all the Ola models, and it’s very easy to use, so that it offers complete protection to your scooter.
#Are there any waterproof covers with UV protection that also protect the Ola S1 Z’s controls?
Yes, there are waterproof covers for the Ola S1 Z which also provide UV protection and protect the controls. The LION Best Quality Fitting Rainy Cover is a perfect fit designed for Ola scooters, keeping rain off the display and controls for clear visibility. This cover will be made of very durable, waterproof material and will probably include UV protection features to protect against sun damage. Alternatively, the Display Safety Handle Rainy Cover provides identical protection, ensuring that it will not affect the functionality of either the display or controls in case of wet weather.