Ather 450S vs TVS iQube S: Battle Of The Affordable Electric Scooters

With a price tag that’s not very far apart, both scooters present interesting choices. 

• At Rs 1,29,999, the Ather 450S is the most affordable scooter from Ather. 
• TVS has priced the iQube S at Rs 1,40,967. 
• Suspension on both scooters is quite similar too. 

With the rising popularity and increasing demand for electric scooters, every potential buyer of a two-wheeled vehicle is contemplating the idea of going electric. Electric scooters are no longer considered specialty items but have become mainstream transportation options. In this evolving market, buyers have a wide array of options to choose from, ranging from established companies like TVS Motor to new entrants like Ather Energy. 

So now that Ather has introduced its most affordable scooter, the 450S, we thought it’d be interesting to see how it fares against its chief rival, the TVS iQube S. Here’s how that went: 

Ather 450S vs TVS iQube S: Design & Features

The Ather 450S electric scooter combines functionality with a sporty aesthetic, making it an appealing choice for riders. 

Its design elements, such as the LED headlight mounted on the front apron and the sleek body cladding, come together harmoniously to create a visually pleasing scooter. In addition to the existing Space Grey and White options, the updated Ather 450S is now available in four new vibrant colors: Cosmic Black, Lunar Grey, Salt Green, and True Red. These color choices add a touch of personalization and style to the scooter, allowing riders to express their individuality.

The TVS iQube, unfortunately, falls short of expectations when it comes to its futuristic appeal as an electric vehicle. While its boxy design is executed well and avoids looking outdated, it lacks the eye-catching aesthetics of its competitors like Ola and Ather.

In line with typical EV features, the TVS iQube is equipped with an all-LED lighting system, a TFT instrument cluster, and smartphone connectivity. This connectivity enables access to a range of features including navigation, geofencing, range estimation, charge status, ride statistics, and an overspeed alert. Although the console is generally user-friendly, operating it via the joystick can result in some lag, which can be a slight inconvenience.

Ather 450S vs TVS iQube S: Motor Capacity & Range

The Ather 450S electric scooter is equipped with a powerful 6kW and 26Nm Permanent Magnet Synchronous (PMS) Motor, delivering impressive performance. It relies on a 3kWh Lithium-ion battery pack and a Battery Management System (BMS) to ensure efficient power delivery. 

With a range of 115km in Eco mode, the Ather 450S offers a practical solution for daily commuting. Furthermore, its Warp mode allows for swift acceleration from 0 to 40kmph in just 3.3 seconds, adding a touch of excitement to the riding experience.

The core of the iQube electric scooter, its 4.4kW motor, is truly impressive. One of the notable advantages of electric vehicles is their ability to deliver instant torque, and the iQube leverages this to its advantage. With ample power, particularly at lower speeds, the iQube exhibits strong acceleration and responsiveness. In fact, even in Eco mode, the scooter proves more than capable of keeping up with the demands of city traffic. 

Ather 450S vs TVS iQube S: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

Ather has made notable improvements to the ride and handling of the 450S by introducing new MRF tyres with a revised compound. These grippier tyres, both at the front and rear, contribute to better traction and stability on the road. The rounded profile of the scooter enables smoother and more controlled cornering, enhancing confidence while navigating bends. This improved handling allows riders to carry greater speed through corners, resulting in a more thrilling and enjoyable ride.

Additionally, the new MRF tyres bring benefits in terms of braking performance. While the braking hardware remains unchanged, the revised compound and profile of the tyres reduce squealing under hard braking, minimizing panic and ensuring a more composed braking experience.

When it comes to hardware, the latest iQube remains unchanged from its predecessor. It retains the same reliable and well-performing components that make up its suspension and braking system. The dual shocks equipped on the scooter offer a supple and comfortable ride, capable of handling various road conditions with ease. 

Ather 450S vs TVS iQube S: Dimensions

Despite its compact size, the Ather 450S offers a nimble and agile ride, particularly well-suited for city commuting. Its lightweight nature adds to its maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through congested urban areas. Riding the Ather 450S is described as a joyful experience, with its responsiveness and flickability adding an element of fun to daily commutes.

In summary, the Ather 450S combines powerful performance, improved ride and handling dynamics, and agile city manoeuvrability. With its enhanced features and enjoyable riding experience, the Ather 450S proves to be a compelling choice for urban riders seeking an electric scooter that offers both practicality and excitement.

Ather 450S vs TVS iQube S: Price

At present, the TVS iQube electric scooter is available in two different variants to cater to different preferences and styles. The standard variant is offered in three vibrant colors: Pearl White, Shining Red, and Titanium Grey. On the other hand, the iQube S variant provides more options with its four distinct colours: Lucid Yellow, Mercury Grey, Mint Blue, and Copper Bronze Glossy.

In terms of pricing, the standard iQube variant is attractively priced, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking to embrace electric mobility. For those seeking a more premium offering with additional features, the iQube S variant is available at a slightly higher price of Rs 1,40,967.

With these multiple variants and colour options, TVS aims to provide a range of choices to cater to the diverse preferences and tastes of electric scooter enthusiasts. Whether you prioritize affordability, style, or advanced features, the TVS iQube line-up has something to offer for everyone.

The Ather 450S, meanwhile, has been priced at a much lower Rs 1,29,999. 

Verdict

When it comes to electric mobility, the TVS iQube and Ather 450S electric scooters offer distinctive flavours for riders to savour. Each scooter caters to different preferences, making the choice a matter of personal taste and priorities.

The TVS iQube S presents itself as a family-friendly electric scooter with its additional nifty features. While it may have a slightly lower range and top speed compared to its counterparts, it compensates with its practicality and versatility. The iQube S is designed to be an ideal choice for the whole family, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the benefits of electric mobility. Its family-friendly appeal lies in its comfortable seating, user-friendly features, and ease of use, making it suitable for riders of varying ages and experience levels.

On the other hand, the Ather 450S offers a more sporty riding experience, delivering a thrilling ride for those seeking a more dynamic and exhilarating journey. It may not boast as many frilly features as the iQube S, but it makes up for it with its performance and sporty nature. The Ather 450S appeals to riders who prioritize a spirited ride and are willing to compromise on some additional features in exchange for a more engaging and agile scooter. Furthermore, the Ather 450S is known for its competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for those on a tighter budget.