The Ola S1 X is a standout offering from Ola Electric, a Bengaluru-based electric vehicle manufacturer that has rapidly risen to prominence in India’s two-wheeler market. Launched as an entry-level electric scooter within the broader S1 lineup, the Ola S1 X is designed to cater to budget-conscious buyers seeking an eco-friendly, efficient, and stylish mode of urban transportation. Ola Electric, founded in 2017 by Bhavish Aggarwal, has positioned itself as a leader in India’s electric mobility revolution, and the S1 X exemplifies its commitment to affordability without compromising on essential features. With its sleek design, practical range, and competitive pricing, the Ola S1 X has quickly become a popular choice for daily commuters in metro cities and beyond.
This scooter is part of Ola’s broader S1 family, which includes the mid-tier S1 Air and the premium S1 Pro. However, the S1 X distinguishes itself by targeting first-time electric vehicle (EV) buyers and those looking for a cost-effective alternative to traditional petrol scooters. Available in multiple battery variants, the S1 X offers flexibility to suit different riding needs, making it a versatile option for navigating the bustling streets of India’s urban centers. Its minimalist yet modern design, coupled with decent performance, positions it as a direct competitor to other affordable electric scooters like the Ather 450S, TVS iQube, and Hero Electric Optima CX. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore the technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of the Ola S1 X, including how it stacks up against its rivals.
Technical Specifications
The Ola S1 X is engineered to deliver a balance of performance, range, and affordability. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Mid Drive IPM Motor |
| Peak Power | 5.5 kW (7 kW in some updates) |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Capacity | 2 kWh / 3 kWh / 4 kWh (variant-dependent) |
| Charging Time | 5-6.5 hours (0-100%) |
| Top Speed | 85-123 kmph (variant-dependent) |
| Range (IDC Claimed) | 108 km (2 kWh), 176 km (3 kWh), 242 km (4 kWh) |
| Acceleration (0-40 kmph) | 3.3-4.1 seconds (variant-dependent) |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Drum/Drum (CBS included) |
| Suspension (Front) | Telescopic Forks |
| Suspension (Rear) | Dual Springs |
| Tyres | 110/70-12 (Tubeless) |
| Wheel Size | 12-inch Aluminium Alloy |
| Kerb Weight | 105-112 kg (variant-dependent) |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Seat Height | 792 mm |
| Display | 4.3-inch LCD (5-inch on S1 X+) |
| Lighting | All-LED (Headlamp, Taillamp, Indicators) |
| Storage | 34-litre underseat storage |
| Riding Modes | Eco, Normal, Sports |
| Additional Features | Reverse mode, OTA updates, Side-stand alert |
These specifications reflect the latest updates to the Ola S1 X, including the Gen 3 enhancements introduced in early 2025, which improved structural integration and motor efficiency.
Variants
The Ola S1 X is available in multiple variants to cater to diverse customer preferences. Each variant differs in battery capacity, range, and features, allowing buyers to choose based on their budget and usage requirements. Below is a table summarizing the variants of the Ola S1 X.
| Variant | Battery Capacity | Range (IDC) | Top Speed | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S1 X 2 kWh | 2 kWh | 108 km | 101 kmph | Basic model, 4.3-inch LCD |
| S1 X 3 kWh | 3 kWh | 176 km | 115 kmph | Mid-tier, improved range |
| S1 X 4 kWh | 4 kWh | 242 km | 123 kmph | Longest range, enhanced performance |
| S1 X Plus | 3 kWh | 176 km | 115 kmph | 5-inch LCD, Bluetooth, Navigation |
The S1 X 2 kWh is the entry-level option, ideal for short commutes, while the S1 X 4 kWh targets users needing extended range. The S1 X Plus adds smart features like navigation and connectivity, appealing to tech-savvy riders.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Ola S1 X varies slightly across metro cities due to differences in state subsidies, RTO charges, and insurance costs. The following table provides the ex-showroom prices and approximate on-road prices in key metro cities as of April 2025, based on data from BikeDekho and BikeWale.
| City | Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | S1 X 2 kWh | 74,999 | 79,610 |
| S1 X 3 kWh | 89,999 | 95,000 | |
| S1 X 4 kWh | 99,999 | 1,04,999 | |
| S1 X Plus | 1,04,999 | 1,10,000 | |
| Mumbai | S1 X 2 kWh | 75,500 | 80,500 |
| S1 X 3 kWh | 90,500 | 96,000 | |
| S1 X 4 kWh | 1,00,500 | 1,06,000 | |
| S1 X Plus | 1,05,500 | 1,11,500 | |
| Bangalore | S1 X 2 kWh | 79,999 | 88,677 |
| S1 X 3 kWh | 89,999 | 99,000 | |
| S1 X 4 kWh | 99,999 | 1,09,999 | |
| S1 X Plus | 1,04,999 | 1,14,000 | |
| Chennai | S1 X 2 kWh | 75,000 | 80,000 |
| S1 X 3 kWh | 90,000 | 95,500 | |
| S1 X 4 kWh | 1,00,000 | 1,05,500 | |
| S1 X Plus | 1,05,000 | 1,10,500 |
These prices are indicative and may fluctuate based on promotional offers, such as the Holi flash sale in March 2025, which offered discounts up to INR 37,250 on the S1 range.
About the Ola S1 X
Design and Build Quality
The Ola S1 X boasts a modern and minimalist design that aligns with the aesthetic of the broader S1 family. Its sleek lines, twin LED projector headlamps, and compact structure give it a contemporary appeal that resonates with urban riders. The scooter features a flat floorboard—a practical addition borrowed from the S1 Air—enhancing usability by providing extra space for carrying small items. Available in seven vibrant color options—Red Velocity, Midnight, Stellar, Funk, Porcelain White, Vogue, and Liquid Silver—the S1 X allows buyers to personalize their ride. The build quality is decent for its price segment, though some users have noted that it lacks the premium feel of higher-end models like the S1 Pro. The use of drum brakes and a simpler suspension setup reflects its cost-conscious engineering, but the 34-litre underseat storage is a standout feature, offering ample space for helmets or groceries.
Performance and Range
Powered by a 5.5 kW Mid Drive IPM motor (upgraded to 7 kW in the Gen 3 update), the Ola S1 X delivers commendable performance for city commuting. The scooter offers three riding modes—Eco, Normal, and Sports—allowing riders to prioritize range or power based on their needs. The 2 kWh variant achieves a top speed of 101 kmph and a range of 108 km, making it suitable for short trips. The 3 kWh variant ups the ante with a 115 kmph top speed and 176 km range, while the 4 kWh variant pushes the boundaries with a 123 kmph top speed and an impressive 242 km range (IDC claimed). Real-world range, however, tends to be lower—typically 70-80% of the claimed figures—depending on riding conditions, rider weight, and mode usage.
The acceleration is brisk, with the 0-40 kmph sprint taking as little as 3.3 seconds in the 4 kWh variant, making it agile in traffic. Charging time ranges from 5 to 6.5 hours for a full charge, which is reasonable but slower compared to competitors with fast-charging options. Ola’s Hypercharger network promises quicker top-ups (75 km in 18 minutes), though its availability remains limited outside major cities as of April 2025.
Features and Technology
The Ola S1 X is equipped with a 4.3-inch LCD display (upgraded to 5 inches in the S1 X Plus), offering clear visibility of speed, battery status, and mode selection. The S1 X Plus variant adds smart features like Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and remote boot unlock, enhancing its appeal for tech enthusiasts. Standard features across all variants include all-LED lighting, a reverse mode for easy maneuvering, and Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for software enhancements. The scooter also supports predictive maintenance and a side-stand alert, adding to its practicality. However, it misses out on advanced features like hill-hold and cruise control, which are reserved for the S1 Pro.
Ride and Handling
The Ola S1 X offers a smooth and quiet ride, a hallmark of electric scooters, making it a refreshing alternative to noisy petrol models. Its telescopic front forks and dual rear springs provide adequate comfort on city roads, though the suspension can feel stiff on rough patches. The 12-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tyres ensure decent grip, and the combined braking system (CBS) with drum brakes offers reliable stopping power, albeit less sharp than disc brakes found on premium competitors. Weighing between 105-112 kg, the scooter is lightweight and easy to handle, with a low 792 mm seat height that accommodates riders of varying statures. The 165 mm ground clearance is sufficient to tackle speed bumps and minor obstacles.
Battery and Warranty
The Ola S1 X uses a lithium-ion battery, available in 2 kWh, 3 kWh, and 4 kWh capacities. Ola Electric has recently introduced an 8-year battery warranty across its S1 range, a significant selling point that addresses concerns about battery longevity. This move positions the S1 X as a low-maintenance option, with running costs as low as INR 0.18 per km, compared to INR 2-3 per km for petrol scooters. The company’s focus on battery innovation, including its Tamil Nadu Gigafactory, underscores its commitment to sustainable energy solutions.
Market Positioning and Sales
Ola Electric dominates India’s electric scooter market with a 30% share as of 2023, and the S1 X has played a pivotal role in maintaining this lead. Its aggressive pricing, wide variant range, and feature-rich design have made it a bestseller, particularly in metro cities where EV adoption is accelerating. The company’s direct-to-consumer model, bypassing traditional dealerships, ensures competitive pricing and home delivery, though it has faced criticism for service delays and infrastructure gaps.
Close Competitors
The Ola S1 X operates in a fiercely competitive segment, with several rivals vying for the attention of budget-conscious EV buyers. Here’s an in-depth comparison with its close competitors.
Ather 450S
The Ather 450S is a strong contender in the affordable electric scooter space, priced between INR 99,546 and 1.37 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). It features a 2.9 kWh battery, offering a real-world range of around 85-100 km and a top speed of 90 kmph. The Ather 450S stands out with its 7-inch TFT touchscreen, premium build quality, and fast-charging capability (0-80% in 4 hours). However, its higher price and shorter range compared to the S1 X 4 kWh make it less appealing for long-distance commuters. The Ather excels in ride quality with its superior suspension and disc brakes, but its storage is limited compared to the S1 X’s 34-litre boot.
TVS iQube
The TVS iQube, priced between INR 1.17 lakh and 1.85 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), targets a slightly premium segment. It offers a 3.4 kWh battery with a claimed range of 100-145 km and a top speed of 78 kmph. The iQube boasts a robust build, disc brakes, and a 7-inch TFT display with connectivity features. While it matches the S1 X in urban usability, its higher cost and slower acceleration (0-40 kmph in 4.2 seconds) put it at a disadvantage. TVS’s extensive service network is a plus, contrasting with Ola’s still-evolving support system.
Hero Electric Optima CX
The Hero Electric Optima CX, priced between INR 83,300 and 1.09 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), is a direct rival in the budget category. It features a 1.5-2 kWh battery, delivering a range of 82-110 km and a modest top speed of 45 kmph. The Optima CX is simpler, with basic features and a utilitarian design, lacking the S1 X’s smart tech and performance. Its lower price appeals to cost-sensitive buyers, but its limited speed and range make it less versatile for metro city commutes.
Bajaj Chetak
The Bajaj Chetak, priced at INR 1.15 lakh to 1.47 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), blends retro styling with modern EV tech. It offers a 3.2 kWh battery, a 108 km range, and a top speed of 73 kmph. The Chetak’s premium build, disc brakes, and Bajaj’s trusted service network give it an edge in reliability. However, its higher price and shorter range compared to the S1 X 4 kWh make it less competitive for value-driven buyers.
Final Thoughts!
The Ola S1 X is a game-changer in India’s electric scooter market, offering an unbeatable combination of affordability, range, and practicality. Its multiple variants cater to a wide audience, from short-trip commuters to those needing extended range, while its pricing undercuts many rivals. The scooter’s design, decent performance, and features like the large boot space and OTA updates make it a compelling choice for urban riders. However, it’s not without flaws—real-world range falls short of claims, charging infrastructure lags in smaller cities, and service issues have been reported.
Compared to competitors like the Ather 450S, TVS iQube, Hero Electric Optima CX, and Bajaj Chetak, the S1 X shines in value-for-money and range, particularly in the 4 kWh variant. It may lack the premium finish or advanced braking of some rivals, but its aggressive pricing and Ola’s market dominance ensure it remains a top pick. For metro city dwellers seeking an eco-friendly, cost-effective ride, the Ola S1 X is a worthy investment, backed by an 8-year battery warranty that promises long-term peace of mind. As Ola Electric continues to expand its charging network and refine its offerings, the S1 X is poised to solidify its position as a leader in India’s EV revolution.
