Five low-speed e-scooters under Rs 50,000, with prices starting at Rs 38,000
Low-speed electric scooters priced under Rs 50,000 are drawing buyers as fuel costs rise, and they need no driving licence or RTO passing.
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Inflation and higher fuel prices are putting a heavy burden on household budgets. To cut this expense, electric vehicles are growing rapidly in popularity in the country's market. Low-speed e-scooters available within a Rs 50,000 budget are finding particular favour with buyers these days. They are convenient for fetching vegetables, going to school or college, or running errands nearby.
These scooters have a top speed of under 25 km/h, so they need no driving licence or RTO passing. They can be charged easily on an ordinary household socket. Here are five scooters that fit a low-cost budget.
The first is the Yuki Mini EV. It is considered a very good option for city lanes or very short trips. Its light weight and easy handling mean elderly people and students can ride it comfortably. Its maintenance cost is nominal, which keeps daily travel economical. On a full charge it can run about 60 to 70 km. The battery takes 6 to 7 hours to charge fully. Its top speed is 25 to 30 km/h and its approximate market price is about Rs 42,000.
The second is the Hero Electric Flash E2 (low speed). It is especially popular with buyers because of the trusted brand and easily available servicing. Hero's model has a removable battery, which can be taken out easily, brought indoors and charged on an ordinary plug point. The battery charges fully in 4 to 5 hours and one charge gives a range of about 65 km. Top speed is 25 km/h. It is a good option for first-time EV buyers. Its approximate price is Rs 49,999.
Third is the Ampere Rio Plus, which has a lead-acid battery. The battery is used to keep the initial cost as low as possible. The scooter performs well for small daily tasks on flat roads. The battery takes 7 to 8 hours to fill, but one charge can take it about 50 to 55 km. Its top speed is 25 km/h. Compared with a lithium battery, its maintenance works out slightly higher over the long term, but it is still considered quite effective for a small budget. Its price is about Rs 45,000.
Fourth is the Komaki XGT KM (entry variant). To make daily travel more comfortable, Komaki has given it a wide seat and ample storage space. It is an ideal choice as a second vehicle at home. On one charge it can cover about 65 to 70 km, and the battery takes about 6 hours to fill. Top speed is 25 km/h. It combines modern features with good performance. Its approximate price is Rs 48,999.
Fifth is the Avon E-Scoot 207. Avon is among the first names mentioned among brands offering light, simple vehicles at low prices. Its build is very simple, so it is easy to ride. On a full charge it can go about 50 to 60 km. The battery takes 6 to 8 hours to charge and the top speed is 24 km/h. Available for about Rs 38,000, this e-scooter is useful for getting a taste of an electric vehicle at low cost.
Some practical points should be kept in mind when buying. Running costs of these vehicles are far lower than petrol vehicles, and there is no hassle of licence or passing. But these scooters are built mainly for short local trips, so they should not be taken on highways or long journeys. Before making a final decision, it is also worth understanding properly the difference between lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries and how they perform.