TVS Motor Company's Orbiter Electric Scooter

When discussing major global two-wheeler manufacturers, TVS Motor Company from India is a top contender. The brand has been producing motorcycles and scooters for many years, catering not only to its domestic market but also to riders across Asia, Africa, and beyond. In India, TVS scooters are a common sight on almost every street, giving the company a level of expertise that few others can match.

TVS is now focusing heavily on electric mobility. Their first major step in this direction was the iQube, an e-scooter that is gaining popularity in India. However, the company is not stopping there. Introducing the TVS Orbiter, a new model aimed at making electric commuting easy, practical, and affordable.

Priced at around Rs 99,900 (approximately $1,135), the Orbiter is one of the most accessible electric scooters offered by TVS, packed with more technology than expected at that price point.

What sets the Orbiter apart? It features a 3.1kWh battery pack that TVS claims can cover about 100 miles on the Indian driving cycle. Real-world figures may be lower, but even around 70 miles is sufficient for daily commuting. The scooter is powered by a hub-mounted motor with two modes: Eco for maximum range and Power for quicker acceleration and overtaking. With a top speed of 42 miles per hour, the Orbiter is designed for city use.

TVS has also considered rider comfort. The Orbiter is equipped with 14-inch front wheels (with a 12-inch rear option), providing better stability and reduced vibrations compared to smaller-wheeled budget scooters. The seat height is a comfortable 30 inches, and the spacious saddle offers ample room for a passenger. The scooter also features storage under the seat that can accommodate two helmets, making it ideal for urban use.

On the technology front, the Orbiter exceeds expectations. It boasts a color LCD dashboard with call, message, and navigation alerts. Through a connected app, users can access crash and fall alerts, geo-fencing, time fencing, anti-theft notifications, and OTA updates for future feature enhancements. Convenience features like cruise control, hill-hold, and reverse assist give the scooter a premium feel despite its affordable price tag.

Could a scooter like the Orbiter succeed in the US? In densely populated cities, the answer is likely yes. Students, commuters, and delivery riders could benefit from an affordable EV with sufficient range for daily trips and storage for belongings. Weighing just 247 pounds, it is lightweight and suitable for new riders, with low operating costs making it an attractive option in areas with limited parking and high gas prices.

However, there are challenges to overcome. The US does not have as strong a scooter culture as India or Southeast Asia, and American riders often expect higher speeds on freeways. The Orbiter's 42-mile-per-hour speed limit restricts it to local streets and urban areas. Additionally, issues such as homologation, dealer networks, and after-sales support pose obstacles where competitors like Honda, Yamaha, and Vespa already have an edge.

Nevertheless, the Orbiter demonstrates the progress electric scooters have made in terms of design and functionality. If TVS decides to introduce it to the US market, it could establish a niche in college towns and major coastal cities. At the very least, it proves that affordable EVs can offer more than just basic features, which is a significant achievement.