Electric Vehicles are becoming popular in India. This is because petrol and diesel prices are at their peak, and commuters want something that will take them from point A to B without burning a big hole in their pocket.
Electric scooters are also a great choice in terms of power distribution. They have a linear power delivery, meaning the same torque at any RPM.
Considering these benefits, commuters are inching towards electric scooters, but people still do not know what to consider when buying one.
This article about the Electric Scooter Buying Guide will document the key factors you should consider before you head to the showroom to get your favorite electric scooter.
Understanding Electric Scooters
Electric scooters are a popular mode of personal transportation that runs on electric motors and rechargeable batteries.
They are designed to provide a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered scooters and cars.
What Is An Electric Scooter?
An electric scooter, or e-scooter, is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by an electric motor. It typically consists of a deck or platform for the rider to stand on, handlebars for steering, and a battery pack that powers the motor.
There is no engine or multi-speed transmission system. Yes, it does have a single-speed transmission system to transfer the power from the motor to the wheel, but since it offers constant torque at any RPM, an electric scooter does not need a multi-speed gearbox system like an ICE scooter.
Types Of Electric Scooters
Various types of electric scooters are available in the market, including commuter, off-road, and foldable scooters.
Each type is designed to cater to different usage scenarios and user preferences.
In this article, we will focus more on commuter scooters, as these types of scooters make more sense for daily commuting in the city.
Benefits Of Using An Electric Scooter
- Environmentally friendly: Electric scooters produce zero emissions, making them an eco-friendly transportation option.
- Cost-effective: They are cheaper to operate and maintain compared to traditional vehicles.
- Convenient: Electric scooters are compact and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for short commutes and urban travel.
- Fewer Mechanical Parts: Electric scooters offer constant torque, eliminating the need for a multi-speed gearbox system. It also does not have an engine. Fewer parts mean fewer chances of failure.
Factors To Consider Before Buying An Electric Scooter: EV Buying Guide
Here are some factors you should consider while buying an electric scooter. However, this list is not exclusive, as multiple other factors could influence your decision.
Range
The range of an electric scooter refers to the distance it can travel on a single charge. When choosing an electric scooter, consider your typical commuting distance and select a model with a range that meets your needs.
Charging your scooter frequently won’t cost you extra, but it will affect the battery life, adding some extra inconvenience to your daily routine.
Charging Time
It is better to choose a scooter that can charge itself quickly. Waiting half a day to charge your scooter does not make sense.
Modern scooters have a DC charger option, but not everyone can install one at home. So look for a scooter that takes less time to charge, even with a portable home charger.
Battery Capacity
Battery capacity defines how long it takes to fully charge and how much range it may provide. It also tells us how much power it may consume for a full charge.
For example, a 3 kWh battery will take about 6-7 hours to fully charge using a 500W portable charger, consuming three units of electricity for every charge.
Battery Life
The most considerable confusion among commuters is about the battery life of electric vehicles. Many people may think they must change the battery every few years.
Although it’s true, in most cases, the battery will survive the vehicle’s life. Typically, an electric scooter battery lasts for 8-10 years, which is long enough for an electric scooter.
Even after 10 years, the battery may not be dead, but it may not offer the same range as it used to.
Motor Power And Speed
The motor power determines the speed and performance of the electric scooter. Consider the terrain and inclines you will encounter during your rides, and choose a scooter with sufficient motor power to handle them.
You also need to consider the type of motor used and how it is mounted on the scooter. For example, the Ola scooter has a hub-mounted motor, whereas Vida V1 has a side-mounted motor.
Although mounting the motor does not affect its performance, it may complement things during servicing.
Top Speed And Acceleration
Gone are the days when an electric scooter could only reach a speed of 25 kmph. Modern scooters are powerful enough to compete with ICE scooters in speed.
Go for a scooter with a decent speed, which is essential for daily commuting. A bare minimum speed of 80 kmph is a must.
Most scooters nowadays have two acceleration modes: eco and sports. You can adjust the mode based on your power requirement.
Charging Infrastructure
Go for a brand that has enough charging infrastructure in your city. You can not always charge at home, as it takes almost 4-5 hours to do a full charge, whereas DC charging only takes about an hour.
Better charging infrastructure also eliminates the range anxiety that most of us have while driving an electric vehicle, as you will never be out of range of a charging station.
Weight Capacity And Build Quality
Check the scooter’s weight capacity to ensure it can support your weight. Every scooter has a limit on the weight it can carry, depending on the motor power. Better motor power means the scooter can take up more weight.
Additionally, consider the build quality and materials used in the construction of the scooter for durability and longevity.
Connectivity Features
Electric scooters are no longer typical scooters. They’re more of gadgets, and you need to consider some connectivity features through app integration.
Almost 90% of scooters sold in India come with connectivity features such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi function and cloud-based features like geo-fencing.
Navigation is another feature that you should consider. Choosing a scooter that offers full-fledged navigation over turn-by-turn navigation is better, as you need a mobile phone with data connectivity.
Convenient Feature
Features like cruise control, parking, and reverse are popular in cars. However, in scooters, you may not use these features much.
However, considering the road conditions and traffic, you may choose to use these features more often than before.
Consider choosing a scooter with a hill-hold feature, as this is one of the most important convenient features that will make your drive easy and safe. Other features are also good to have.
Portability And Under Seat Storage
Consider the scooter’s portability and size if you need to carry it on public transportation or store it in a small space.
Also, if you are a daily commuter, you must consider the under-seat storage, where you can dump your groceries safely without any external attachment.
Safety And Security Features
Since buying an electric scooter, you must ensure the battery is safe. It should be at least IP67 rated and not cause issues with overcharging or overheating.
It should also have an auto-cut-off feature, so that when the battery is fully charged, the power is automatically cut off.
Lithium-ion batteries are the preferred choice for electric scooters as they offer better energy density, can withstand severe heat, and are safe in other aspects too.
Considering braking, disk brakes are the new norm for electric scooters. ABS is getting popular in scooters. If you have ABS, it’s always better.
Choosing The Right Electric Scooter For You
Commuting Needs And Distance
Evaluate your commuting needs, including the distance you need to travel and the terrain you will encounter. Then, choose a scooter that meets your specific requirements.
Budget Considerations
Set a budget for your electric scooter purchase and explore options within your price range. Consider the long-term cost savings of owning an electric scooter compared to other forms of transportation.
Here is an electric vehicle savings calculator that may come in handy for you to see how much you might be saving if you switch to EV
[CP_CALCULATED_FIELDS id=”11″ ]Design And Aesthetics
Select a scooter that matches your style and preferences. Consider factors such as color, design, and overall aesthetics. Some electric scooters look like toys, which may not suit everyone’s taste.
Additional Features And Accessories
Look for additional features like LED lights, better suspension systems, and smartphone connectivity. Consider any necessary accessories, such as a phone mount or storage attachments.
Maintenance And Care Tips For Electric Scooters
Charging And Battery Maintenance
To prolong your electric scooter’s lifespan, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for charging and maintaining the battery.
Never charge your battery beyond 80% and don’t let it discharge below 20%. Both will damage your battery quickly.
Prefer to charge the battery using a home portable charger. Continuous use of DC charging may degrade your battery faster than AC charging.
Cleaning And Upkeep
Regularly clean and inspect your scooter for any signs of wear or damage. Keep it well-maintained to ensure optimal performance.
Repairs And Servicing
Be prepared for routine maintenance and occasional repairs. Familiarize yourself with local service centers or authorized repair shops for your scooter.
Where To Buy Electric Scooters
Online Retailers
Explore online platforms and e-commerce websites for a wide selection of electric scooters and competitive pricing.
Buying a scooter during the festive season may get a very good discount on Amazon and Flipkart.
Occasionally, they offer lucrative offers to customers who hold credit cards from certain banks, such as HDFC, ICICI, and Axis.
Local Stores And Dealers
Visit local stores and dealers to test ride different models and receive in-person assistance from knowledgeable staff.
Although there may be few dealers in your city, it’s always better to test drive a scooter before you buy it.
Secondhand Market Considerations
Consider purchasing a used electric scooter from reputable sources for a budget-friendly option.
Conclusion: Electric Scooter Buying Guide
In conclusion, buying an electric scooter requires careful consideration of various factors such as range, motor power, safety, and maintenance.
By understanding your commuting needs and evaluating different models, you can find the scooter that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
FAQ: Electric Scooter Buying Guide
What Is The Average Range Of An Electric Scooter?
The average range of an electric scooter varies depending on the model and battery capacity, but it typically ranges from 60 to 120 KM on a single charge.
How Long Do Electric Scooter Batteries Last?
The lifespan of electric scooter batteries can vary, but with proper maintenance, they can last anywhere from 8 to 10 years before needing replacement.
What Are The Maintenance Costs For Electric Scooters?
Maintenance costs for electric scooters typically include periodic battery replacements, tire changes, and general upkeep. Compared to traditional vehicles, these costs are relatively low.
