With the electric vehicle (EV) wave sweeping across India, the TVS iQube emerges as a serious contender in the electric scooter market. Designed to offer a seamless blend of traditional styling and futuristic technology, the iQube promises a clean, quiet, and convenient ride for modern city commuters. But how well does it hold up in real-world conditions? Let’s dive into its features, performance, and practicality.
Design and Build Quality
The TVS iQube sports a clean, minimalistic design that appeals to a broad audience. It doesn’t scream “electric,” which is a plus for those transitioning from petrol-powered scooters. The LED headlamp setup, sleek body panels, and subtle branding give it a premium, understated look. The fit and finish are top-notch, as expected from TVS, with quality switches, sturdy mirrors, and solid plastics all around.
Despite its modern tech, the iQube retains a conventional scooter silhouette, which makes it approachable even for first-time EV buyers.
Performance and Ride Quality
Powered by a 4.4 kW hub-mounted motor, the TVS iQube delivers a smooth and silent ride. It can achieve a top speed of 78 km/h, which is adequate for urban commutes. The scooter accelerates briskly, and the power delivery is linear, making it suitable for both experienced and new riders.
It offers two riding modes – Eco and Power. While Eco mode maximizes range, Power mode gives a quicker throttle response, ideal for overtaking or riding on open stretches. In both modes, the iQube remains stable and well-balanced.
Thanks to its telescopic front suspension and twin rear shocks, the scooter handles potholes and speed breakers with ease. The 12-inch wheels provide decent grip, and the braking system – with a front disc and rear drum – is responsive and predictable.
Range and Charging
One of the most important aspects of an electric scooter is its range. The iQube claims a real-world range of around 100 km in Eco mode, which is impressive and more than enough for daily commutes. It uses a 3.04 kWh lithium-ion battery that can be charged from 0 to 80% in about 4.5 hours with the standard home charger.
TVS also offers connected features to help track charging, battery status, and ride statistics, making ownership smarter and more engaging.
Features and Technology
The iQube is packed with smart features, including a 5-inch color TFT display with smartphone connectivity via the TVS SmartXonnect app. You can access turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, ride statistics, and more. There’s also a convenient USB charging port, under-seat light, and ample boot space that can fit a half-face helmet.
Other smart touches include geo-fencing, anti-theft alert, live location tracking, and regenerative braking. The regenerative system helps slightly extend the range by recovering energy during braking or deceleration.
Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?
The TVS iQube strikes a commendable balance between performance, range, features, and practicality. It’s an ideal choice for urban riders looking to switch to electric without compromising on quality or comfort. Backed by TVS’s service network and proven reliability, the iQube offers peace of mind for first-time EV users.
It may not be the flashiest e-scooter on the market, but it scores high in areas that matter: build, ride quality, smart features, and everyday usability.
