The PURE EV ETrance Neo is a standout offering in India’s burgeoning electric two-wheeler market, blending affordability, eco-friendliness, and practical urban mobility. Developed by PURE EV, a Hyderabad-based company incubated at IIT Hyderabad, this electric scooter embodies the ethos of Power Using Renewable Energy (PURE). Launched as a family-oriented, high-speed electric vehicle, the ETrance Neo caters to daily commuters seeking an economical and sustainable alternative to traditional petrol scooters. With the Indian government pushing for greener transportation through subsidies and infrastructure development, the ETrance Neo arrives at a pivotal moment, offering a compelling mix of modern technology, decent range, and competitive pricing.
PURE EV has positioned the ETrance Neo as a versatile scooter available in multiple variants, each tailored to different user needs—whether it’s the budget-conscious rider or someone seeking enhanced performance and range. The scooter’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, making it suitable for city commuting while incorporating features like regenerative braking, hill-start assist, and a removable lithium-ion battery. However, its journey hasn’t been without challenges, as customer reviews often highlight concerns about service support and build quality, which we’ll explore in depth later. This product detail aims to unpack the ETrance Neo’s specifications, pricing, variants, and competitive standing, providing a comprehensive guide for potential buyers.
Technical Specifications
The technical specifications of the PURE EV ETrance Neo vary slightly across its variants, but the core engineering remains consistent. Below is a consolidated table based on data sourced from BikeDekho, BikeWale, and PURE EV’s official website, reflecting the latest available information as of April 2025.
| Specification | ETrance Neo SX | ETrance Neo STD | ETrance Neo Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | BLDC Hub Motor | BLDC Hub Motor | BLDC Hub Motor |
| Peak Power | 250 W | 2.2 kW (Peak), 1.5 kW (Cont.) | 2.2 kW (Peak), 1.5 kW (Cont.) |
| Battery Capacity | 1.8 kWh (Li-ion, Portable) | 2.4 kWh (Li-ion, Portable) | 3.0 kWh (Li-ion, Portable) |
| Voltage | 60 V | 60 V | 60 V |
| Claimed Range | 85-101 km | 111-151 km | 131-171 km |
| Top Speed | 47 kmph | 63 kmph | 63 kmph |
| Charging Time | 4-5 hours | 4-5 hours | 5-6 hours |
| Load Capacity | 100 kg | 150 kg | 150 kg |
| Suspension (Front) | Telescopic Fork | Telescopic Fork | Telescopic Fork |
| Suspension (Rear) | Twin Shock Absorbers | Twin Shock Absorbers | Twin Shock Absorbers |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc/Drum | Disc/Drum | Disc/Drum |
| Tyre Type | Tubeless | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Weight | Approx. 85 kg | Approx. 87 kg | Approx. 89 kg |
| Ground Clearance | 160 mm | 160 mm | 160 mm |
| Features | LED Headlight, Reverse Mode, Hill-Start Assist, Down-Hill Assist, Parking Assist | LED Headlight, Reverse Mode, Hill-Start Assist, Down-Hill Assist, Parking Assist | LED Headlight, Reverse Mode, Hill-Start Assist, Down-Hill Assist, Parking Assist |
| Controller | 60V Smart Controller | 60V Smart Controller | 60V Smart Controller |
These specifications highlight the scooter’s evolution from the base SX model to the premium Plus variant, with improvements in power, battery capacity, and range. The data has been cross-verified from BikeDekho and BikeWale to ensure accuracy.
Variants
The PURE EV ETrance Neo is available in three distinct variants, catering to different segments of the market. Below is a table summarizing the variants and their key differences.
| Variant | Key Features | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|
| ETrance Neo SX | 250W motor, 1.8 kWh battery, 85-101 km range, 47 kmph top speed | Budget-conscious urban commuters |
| ETrance Neo STD | 2.2 kW peak motor, 2.4 kWh battery, 111-151 km range, 63 kmph top speed | Regular commuters needing more range |
| ETrance Neo Plus | 2.2 kW peak motor, 3.0 kWh battery, 131-171 km range, 63 kmph top speed | Long-distance commuters, premium buyers |
The SX variant is the entry-level model, ideal for short city trips, while the STD and Plus variants offer enhanced performance for those requiring greater range and power. All variants come in multiple color options, with the SX limited to Grey, while STD and Plus offer Black, Blue, Grey, Red, White, and Yellow.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the PURE EV ETrance Neo varies by city due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table of on-road prices in major metro cities, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho, accurate as of April 2025 (subject to change based on subsidies and dealer offers).
| City | ETrance Neo SX | ETrance Neo STD | ETrance Neo Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹77,665 | ₹88,368 | ₹100,970 |
| Mumbai | ₹77,643 | ₹80,206 | ₹103,670 |
| Bangalore | ₹87,498 | ₹98,199 | ₹111,803 |
| Hyderabad | ₹80,206 | ₹90,907 | ₹103,670 |
| Kolkata | ₹77,643 | ₹88,344 | ₹100,946 |
These prices include ex-showroom costs, RTO charges, and insurance, but exclude accessories or additional dealer fees. The ETrance Neo benefits from government subsidies under India’s FAME II scheme, making it competitively priced in the electric scooter segment.
About the PURE EV ETrance Neo
Design and Build Quality
The PURE EV ETrance Neo boasts a sleek, minimalist design tailored for urban environments. Its lightweight frame—ranging from 85 to 89 kg across variants—makes it easy to maneuver through crowded streets, a critical advantage in India’s metro cities. The scooter features a modern LED headlight that enhances visibility during night rides, paired with a digital instrument cluster displaying speed, battery level, odometer, and riding mode. Available in up to seven vibrant colors, it appeals to a broad demographic, from young professionals to older riders.
However, build quality remains a point of contention. While the chassis and suspension—telescopic forks in the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear—are adequate for city roads, user reviews frequently criticize the use of inferior materials. Components like the side stand and battery cabinet have been reported to rust or loosen over time, and the paint quality tends to peel after a few months of use. These issues suggest that while the ETrance Neo excels in affordability and functionality, durability could be a concern for long-term owners.
Performance and Range
The ETrance Neo’s performance varies significantly across its variants. The SX model, with its 250W BLDC motor, is designed for low-speed commuting, capping at 47 kmph with a range of 85-101 km per charge. This makes it suitable for short trips—think office commutes or errands within a 20-30 km radius. In contrast, the STD and Plus variants pack a punch with a 2.2 kW peak motor (1.5 kW continuous), achieving a top speed of 63 kmph and ranges of 111-151 km and 131-171 km, respectively. These figures position the higher-end models as viable options for longer intra-city travel.
The scooter offers three riding modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—allowing users to balance range and performance. In Eco mode, the range extends to its maximum, albeit at reduced speeds (around 30-40 kmph), while Sport mode prioritizes acceleration and top speed at the cost of battery life. Real-world tests, as reported on BikeWale, suggest that the claimed ranges are achievable under optimal conditions—light loads, flat terrain, and moderate speeds—but drop by 10-20% with heavier riders or hilly routes. The removable lithium-ion battery is a standout feature, enabling home charging without needing a dedicated station, though charging times of 4-6 hours may feel lengthy compared to competitors offering faster options.
Features and Technology
The ETrance Neo is equipped with several smart features that enhance its appeal. Reverse Mode aids in parking, especially in tight spaces, while Hill-Start Assist and Down-Hill Assist ensure stability on slopes—a boon in cities like Bangalore or Pune with undulating terrain. The Parking Assist feature further simplifies handling, making it accessible for novice riders. Regenerative braking, which recycles energy during deceleration, slightly boosts the range, aligning with the scooter’s eco-friendly ethos.
The 60V smart controller integrates AI-based speed and torque adjustments based on battery health (State of Health, SoH), a feature PURE EV touts as extending battery life by up to 50%. Firmware upgrade capability ensures the scooter remains future-proof, though implementation depends on service center support—a weak link, as we’ll discuss. However, the absence of smartphone connectivity or advanced telematics, common in rivals like the Ola S1 X, might disappoint tech-savvy buyers.
Riding Experience
On the road, the ETrance Neo delivers a smooth and silent ride, characteristic of electric scooters. The instant torque from the BLDC motor provides brisk acceleration, particularly in Sport mode, making it adept at navigating traffic. Suspension handles minor bumps well, but users report discomfort over potholes or rough patches due to subpar shock absorbers. The tubeless tires offer decent grip, though their quality has been criticized for wearing out quickly.
The scooter’s ergonomics cater to a wide audience. With a seat height of around 760 mm and a ground clearance of 160 mm, it’s accessible for shorter riders while avoiding scrapes on speed breakers. However, taller riders (above 6 feet) may find the compact dimensions cramped, especially for long rides. Boot space is limited in older models, though newer editions address this by accommodating the charger—a practical upgrade.
Battery and Charging
The lithium-ion battery is the heart of the ETrance Neo, with capacities of 1.8 kWh (SX), 2.4 kWh (STD), and 3.0 kWh (Plus). PURE EV offers a 5-year or 40,000 km warranty, a significant selling point, but customer feedback often contradicts this promise. Reports of battery failures within months, coupled with delayed replacements, highlight a gap between claims and reality. Charging consumes 3-4 units of electricity per full cycle, costing roughly ₹20-30 in most cities—an economical alternative to petrol scooters, where a full tank can exceed ₹300.
The portable battery design is convenient, but its weight (around 10-12 kg) may challenge some users, particularly the elderly. Charging infrastructure remains a concern outside metro areas, though home charging mitigates this for urban dwellers. The lack of fast-charging options, unlike competitors such as Ather or Ola, is a notable drawback.
After-Sales Service and Reliability
One of the ETrance Neo’s biggest hurdles is after-sales service. PURE EV’s network, while growing, struggles with consistency. Owners from cities like Udaipur and Bhubaneswar have reported scooters languishing at showrooms for months due to battery or charger issues, with unresponsive staff and poor company support. Warranty claims are often delayed, and spare parts availability is inconsistent, denting the brand’s reliability. This contrasts sharply with established players like TVS or Hero Electric, whose service networks are more robust.
Reliability-wise, the scooter performs well for daily use under normal conditions but falters with heavy loads or prolonged high-speed riding. Rusting parts, loose fittings, and battery degradation are recurring complaints, suggesting that PURE EV needs to bolster quality control to compete with industry leaders.
Market Positioning and Value for Money
Priced between ₹73,999 and ₹96,999 (ex-showroom), the ETrance Neo is a value-for-money proposition in the electric scooter segment. Its running cost of ₹0.21 per km (per BikeWale) undercuts petrol scooters by a wide margin, appealing to cost-conscious buyers. Subsidies under schemes like FAME II further sweeten the deal, though these vary by state. For a daily commute of 30-40 km, the STD or Plus variant offers ample range and performance without breaking the bank.
However, its value proposition hinges on addressing service and durability issues. For buyers prioritizing affordability and eco-friendliness over premium features, the ETrance Neo is a strong contender. Yet, those seeking a hassle-free ownership experience might look elsewhere.
Close Competitors
The PURE EV ETrance Neo faces stiff competition in India’s electric scooter market. Below is a comparison with key rivals, based on specifications, pricing, and features.
| Scooter | Price (Ex-Showroom) | Range | Top Speed | Key Features | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ola S1 X (2 kWh) | ₹69,999 – ₹99,999 | 95-151 km | 85 kmph | Smartphone connectivity, fast charging | Wide service network, tech-savvy features | Higher base price |
| Hero Electric Optima CX 2.0 | ₹87,117 – ₹1.09 Lakh | 89-140 km | 45 kmph | Regenerative braking, digital display | Reliable brand, good service | Lower top speed |
| Ather Rizta S | ₹1.05 – ₹1.42 Lakh | 123-160 km | 80 kmph | Touchscreen, fast charging, OTA updates | Premium build, advanced tech | Expensive, limited variants |
| TVS iQube | ₹97,307 – ₹1.85 Lakh | 75-145 km | 78 kmph | LED lights, app connectivity | Strong service, brand trust | Higher cost, shorter range |
Ola S1 X
The Ola S1 X edges out the ETrance Neo with a higher top speed (85 kmph) and features like fast charging and app integration. Its range (up to 151 km) matches the Neo Plus, but Ola’s extensive service network and sleek design give it an advantage. However, its base price is slightly higher, making the Neo SX more budget-friendly.
Hero Electric Optima CX 2.0
The Hero Electric Optima CX 2.0 competes closely with the Neo SX and STD, offering a reliable range (89-140 km) and a trusted brand name. Its top speed of 45 kmph is lower, but Hero’s widespread service centers ensure better after-sales support—a critical edge over PURE EV.
Ather Rizta S
The Ather Rizta S targets premium buyers with a robust 160 km range, 80 kmph top speed, and cutting-edge features like a touchscreen dashboard. Priced significantly higher, it outclasses the ETrance Neo in build quality and technology but isn’t a direct rival for budget-conscious buyers.
TVS iQube
The TVS iQube blends performance (78 kmph, 145 km range) with brand reliability and a growing charging network. Priced above the ETrance Neo, it appeals to buyers willing to pay for TVS’s superior service and durability, though its range is slightly lower than the Neo Plus.
Final Thoughts!
The PURE EV ETrance Neo is a commendable effort in India’s electric mobility revolution, offering an affordable, eco-friendly scooter with decent range and practical features. Its variants cater to diverse needs—from the budget-friendly SX to the range-focused Plus—making it a versatile choice for urban commuters. Priced competitively in metro cities and bolstered by subsidies, it undercuts petrol scooters in running costs, aligning with the shift toward sustainable transport.
However, its potential is tempered by service challenges and build quality concerns. Competitors like Ola S1 X and TVS iQube outshine it in technology and reliability, while Hero Electric offers a safer bet for after-sales support. For buyers prioritizing cost and range over premium features, the ETrance Neo is a solid pick—provided PURE EV addresses its shortcomings. As the electric vehicle market evolves, the ETrance Neo’s success will hinge on balancing affordability with a seamless ownership experience.
