Activa e vs. iQube vs. Chetak: The Ultimate Family E-Scooter Showdown
The electric scooter market in India is electrifying, with the highly anticipated Honda Activa e joining the race against established players like the TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak. For families seeking a practical, eco-friendly, and stylish ride, choosing the perfect e-scooter can be challenging. This comprehensive comparison breaks down the key features, performance, and pricing of each contender to help you make the best decision.
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Honda Activa e: Riding on Legacy
The Honda Activa e carries the weight of expectation, inheriting the legacy of its popular petrol-powered sibling. While full specifications are yet to be released, here’s what we know so far:
Design & Features: Built on a robust underbone frame, the Activa e prioritizes simplicity and reliability. Two variants are expected: Standard and Honda RoadSync Duo, offering connected features. A ground clearance of 171mm promises comfortable handling on varied road conditions.
Performance:
- Motor: Expected to feature an 8 bhp PMS motor delivering 22 Nm of torque.
- Speed: Projected 0-60 km/h in 7.3 seconds with a top speed of 80 kmph.
- Modes: Likely to offer Econ, Standard, and Sport modes for diverse riding styles.
Battery & Range:
- Swappable Batteries: Two 1.5 kWh swappable batteries are expected, providing a combined range of 102 km.
- e:Swap Service: Honda’s battery swapping network, e:Swap, is currently available in Bengaluru and Delhi, with plans to expand to Mumbai.
Price: Pricing is yet to be announced but is expected to be competitive within the premium commuter segment.
TVS iQube: The Feature-Packed Performer
The TVS iQube has carved a niche for itself with its blend of performance, features, and modern design.
Variants & Pricing:
- 2.2 kWh Battery: Starting at ₹94,999 (ex-showroom, as of November 2023).
- iQube ST: Available with 3.4 kWh and 5.1 kWh battery options, offering extended range.
Performance & Range:
- 3.4 kWh Battery: 100 km range (0-80% charge in 2 hours 50 minutes).
- 5.1 kWh Battery: 150 km range (0-80% charge in 4 hours 18 minutes).
- Top Speed: 78 km/h (5.1 kWh variant).
Highlights: The iQube stands out with its impressive range options and relatively quick charging times, making it a practical choice for daily commutes.
Bajaj Chetak: Retro Charm Meets Electric Power
The Bajaj Chetak blends nostalgic design with modern electric technology, appealing to riders seeking a unique and stylish e-scooter.
Performance:
- Motor: 4.2 kW PMS motor generating 5.36 bhp and 16 Nm of torque.
- Top Speed: 63 kmph for the standard variant and 73 kmph for the TecPac variant.
Battery & Range:
- Battery: 3.2 kWh lithium-ion battery.
- Range: Up to 137 km in Eco mode.
- Charging Time: 0-80% in 3 hours 35 minutes.
Features:
- Design: Retro-modern styling with a robust build quality.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Activa e vs. iQube vs. Chetak
Feature | Honda Activa e | TVS iQube | Bajaj Chetak |
---|---|---|---|
Motor | 8 bhp, 22 Nm | 4.4 kW (5.9 bhp) | 5.36 bhp, 16 Nm |
Battery | 3.0 kWh (swappable) | 2.2 – 5.1 kWh | 3.2 kWh |
Range | 102 km | 100-150 km | 137 km |
Top Speed | 80 kmph | 78 kmph | 63/73 kmph |
Charging | Swappable | 2h50m – 4h18m | 3h35m |
Price (approx.) | TBD | ₹95,000+ | ₹1.20 lakh |