Introduction

Electric Scooters have swept India, and in 2025, their visibility on city roads will be greater than ever. With rising fuel prices, more stringent emission regulations, and higher government subsidies, affordable EVs are now the preferred choice of daily commuters and first-time buyers alike.

Electric Scooters have different price segments, but the sub-Rs. The 1 lakh segment has become a sweet spot—it is such a golden mean between affordability, modernity, and practical use on a day-to-day basis.

Whether you’re a student in need of your first vehicle, an office-goer sick of petrol prices, or a city commuter who needs a no-fuss, green commuting solution, there is something for everybody in this segment.

This post delves deep into the top budget electric scooters under Rs. 1 lakh in 2025, comparing actual range, features, charging ease, and all-around value. The objective? To assist you in making an intelligent, future-proof decision without overspending.

Key Points:

• Budget electric scooters under Rs. 1 lakh are taking over the urban mobility segment in 2025.
• The price range strikes the perfect balance between features, range, and affordability for most Indian customers.
• This guide is written with first-time EV buyers, cost-saving commuters, and students in mind.
• We will guide you through the comparison of the best budget EVs on range, speed, style, and real-world value.

Buying Criteria: What’s Most Important Under Rs. 1 Lakh

Buying electric scooters under Rs. 1 lakh, considerations move beyond gaudy features to functional performance and long-term worth. Consumers here want dependable, hassle-free vehicles that can cope with everyday city trips without breaking the bank.

Aspects such as real-world range, battery longevity, and easy servicing become that much more critical than peak speed or high-end styling.

FAME-II subsidies at the center and other state-level benefits, most high-value variants are now within this price range.

Important Purchase Factors:

• Range on a charge: At least a 70–100 km actual range for daily usage is preferred.
• Front-end cost + running cost: Budget buyers prefer low EMIs or cash down payments with low recurring costs.
• Post-sales support: Service centers that are easily accessible and have spare parts available are important for peace of mind.
• Charging ease: Convenience of home charging and the presence of public charging stations are important.
• Subsidies: Incentives by the Central FAME-II + state-level (such as in Delhi, Maharashtra, Gujarat) can reduce prices by Rs. 15,000–Rs. 25,000.
• Best suited for: College students, office-goers, delivery riders, and short-distance commuters in cities.

Best Budget Electric Scooters Under Rs. 1 Lakh (2025)

These electric scooters provide utilitarian range, economical running cost, and basic features — all below Rs. 1 lakh (ex-showroom, with subsidy in states where applicable).

1. Ola S1 X (2kWh and 3kWh models)

• Ex-showroom Price: Rs. 79,999 (2kWh) | Rs. 89,999 (3kWh)
• Range: ~95 km (2kWh) | ~125 km (3kWh)
• Top Speed: 85 km/h
• Battery: Fixed Lithium-ion
• Charging Time: 5–6 hours (home charger)
• Key Features: MoveOS software, OTA updates, various ride modes

Pros & Cons:

• Smart and modern design
• Low real-world range for the money
• Supported by Ola’s growing service & charging network
• No touchscreen dashboard (in contrast to S1 Air)
• Less boot space than S1 Pro
• Best For: Young commuters, students, and app-savvy users

2. Ather Rizta S

• Ex-showroom Price (with subsidy): Begins Rs. 97,500
• Range: ~105 km (certified)
• Top Speed: 80 km/h
• Battery: 2.9kWh Lithium-ion
• Charging Time: 6.5 hours (home), 2–3 hrs (Ather Grid)
• Key Features: Family-centric design, FallSafe, Ather Stack

Pros & Cons:

• Built on the established Ather platform
• Large seat and boot space for family use
• Excellent software and app integration
• Only just under Rs. 1L in a few subsidy-rich states
• Not performance-oriented like 450X
• Best For: Families, working professionals requiring daily practicality

3. TVS iQube

• Ex-showroom Price: Around Rs. 94,000 (after subsidies, state-dependent)
• Range: ~75–80 km (real-world)
• Top Speed: 78 km/h
• Battery: Fixed Lithium-ion
• Charging Time: ~5 hours
• Key Features: Bluetooth connectivity, reverse assist, quality build

Pros & Cons:

• High reliability and ICE-like ride feel.
• Good after-sales support from TVS dealers.
• Refined throttle response
• Lower range than the competition at this price
• Simple display and fewer technology features
• Suitable For: Traditional scooter customers moving to EVs

4. Ampere Magnus EX / NXG

• Ex-showroom Price: Rs. 94,900 (Magnus EX), ~Rs. 1.05L for NXG (may go lower with offers)
• Range: 100–120 km (Magnus), 120–130 km (NXG)
• Top Speed: ~55–60 km/h
• Battery: Removable Lithium-ion
• Charging Time: ~6 hours

Pros & Cons:

• Simple, family-oriented design
• Removable battery for easy charging
• Low cost of ownership
• Lower top speed
• Basic UI and no smartphone app support
• Best Suited For: Budget family customers, short-range city commuters

5. Bounce Infinity E1+

• Ex-showroom Price: Rs. 89,000
• Range: ~85 km (real-world)
• Top Speed: 65 km/h
• Battery: Swappable lithium-ion (battery subscription option available)
• Charging Time: ~4 hours

Pros & Cons:

• The Battery-as-a-Service option lowers the initial cost.
• Light, agile for city riding
• Suited for short-distance, daily usage
• Limited battery network outside metros
• Smaller body size is not suitable for pillion use.
• Best For: Students, gig economy riders, urban solo travelers

6. Okaya Faast F3

• Ex-showroom Price: Rs. 99,999
• Range: ~125 km (real-world)
• Top Speed: 70 km/h
• Battery: Two removable batteries (Lithium-ion)
• Charging Time: 4–5 hours

Pros & Cons:

• Long range under Rs. 1L
• Dual battery design with swappable advantage
• Good speed and comfort
• Relatively new brand with limited service in smaller towns
• Build quality is functional, not premium
• Best For: Regular commuters requiring longer range without asking for performance

7. Hero Electric Flash LX / Optima CX

• Ex-showroom Price: Rs. 59,640 (Flash LX), Rs. 84,500 (Optima CX SB)
• Range: ~60–70 km (real-world)
• Top Speed: 45 km/h
• Battery: Removable Lithium-ion
• Charging Time: ~4–5 hours

Pros & Cons:

• Lowest entry price in the segment
• Easy to handle, light in weight
• Extensively available in India
• Extremely limited performance and features
• Not optimal for highway or long-distance riding
• Best For: Intra-city short use, elderly, frugal purchasers

Range & Battery Performance Electric Scooters

The range and battery performance of Electric Scooters are the deal-breakers for affordable EV scooters priced below Rs. 1 lakh, particularly for commuters who depend on their scooter for daily usage.

Manufacturers tout certified ARAI ranges, but the real-world range in stop-and-go Indian traffic conditions may vary considerably.

Battery type (removable versus fixed, lithium-ion versus lead-acid) immediately influences usability, weight, and longevity. Charging time is critical as well, particularly for commuters with less access to fast-charging networks.

Key Points:

• Certified Range vs Real-World Range
• All models below Rs. 1 lakh have a 70–130 km certified range.
• Real-world range in urban traffic tends to fall by 10–25% based on riding mode and payload.
• Example: Ola S1 X (3kWh) has ~125 km certified, ~100–105 km in real-world mixed mode.

Battery Types

• Lithium-ion batteries are the norm now in this segment — improved lifespan, lighter, and quicker charging.
• Removable batteries (used in Bounce Infinity, Hero Electric, and Ampere) provide home-charging convenience to users without fixed parking.
• Fixed batteries (used in Ola, Ather, TVS) enable heavier design but require the scooter to be stationed near a power outlet.
• Lead-acid batteries are now mostly discontinued due to low energy density and heavy weight — steer clear of them in 2025.

Charging Time

• Home charging (3A socket):
• Generally takes 4–6 hours for a complete charge.
• Example: Ather Rizta S ~6.5 hrs on normal home charger.
• Ather Grid and some Ola Hyperchargers provide 0–80% charge in ~2–2.5 hrs.
• Not all affordable models have fast charging — ensure before buying.

Pricing Breakdown of an Electric Scooters

Electric Scooters under Rs. 1 lakh EV category: The top-of-the-line price can differ dramatically depending on the state due to government subsidies, registration waivers, and road tax exemptions. A model that appears out of budget at first sight—such as the Ather Rizta S or TVS iQube—can prove to be under Rs. 1 lakh with incentives in states such as Delhi or Gujarat. For budget-conscious consumers, zero-down-payment facilities and EMI options are also essential for affordability.

Major Points:

• Ex-showroom vs On-road Pricing
• Ex-showroom price = base cost + GST.
• On-road price = insurance + registration + road tax (in some states, if not waived).

Example: Ola S1 X 3kWh

• Ex-showroom (Pan India): Rs. 89,999
• On-road in Delhi (post-subsidy, no road tax): ~Rs. 91,500
• On-road in Maharashtra (includes registration): ~Rs. 95,000–Rs. 97,000

State-wise Subsidy Impact (2025)

• Delhi: Rs. 10,000/kWh subsidy (limit of Rs. 20,000), no road tax, free registration.
• Gujarat: Rs. 10,000/kWh, max Rs. 20,000 + lowest GST impact.
• Maharashtra: Rs. 5,000–10,000 subsidy + early bird discounts.
• Karnataka & Tamil Nadu: No state subsidy up to mid-2025, but road tax exemption is applicable.
• These subsidies can reduce the prices of scooters by Rs. 15,000–Rs. 25,000 in leading EV states.

How Premium Models Fall Below Rs. 1L Mark?

• Scooters such as the Ather Rizta S (Rs. 1.10L MRP) and TVS iQube 2.2kWh (Rs. 1.05L) become as low as Rs. 97K–Rs. 99K in Delhi, Gujarat, and Pune with subsidies applied.
• Some brands have introductory pricing or direct dealer discounts in metro cities.

EMI & Subscription Options

• The EMI plans for entry models start as low as Rs. 2,000/month.
• Ola, Ather, and Bounce provide online financing via NBFCs or bank partners.
• Zero down payment + 36-month EMI plans are provided by some brands (check interest rate!).
• Battery subscription (e.g., Bounce) saves upfront cost by Rs. 15–20K but charges monthly fees.

Features & Technology in Budget EVs

Electric scooters under Rs. 1 lakh are loaded with smart features, digital displays, and safety technology on par with mid-range petrol scooters. You may not find the complete premium set from flagship EVs, but some brands include mobile app control, ride modes, and even OTA updates, redefining what “value” is in the under Rs. 1L—1L space.

Must-Have Features (Now Standard or Common):

• Digital Instrument Cluster: Ola S1 X, Ather Rizta S, Ampere NXG. Basic LCD on Hero & Bounce models.
• Ride Modes: The Majority of scooters now have Eco, Ride/City, and Power/Sport modes to optimize performance vs range.
• USB Charging Port: Present in Ather Rizta, Ampere Magnus, and TVS iQube.

Mobile App Support:

• Ola S1 X (3kWh) – Limited MoveOS features (trip statistics, remote locking, OTA updates).
• Ather Rizta S – Complete app set with navigation, charge level, and remote lock
• Bounce E1+ – App-connected battery data and location tracking
• Side-stand Sensor + Cut-off: Found in most popular scooters, such as Ola and Ather.

Safety & Utility Features:

• Regenerative Braking: Available in Ola S1 X, Ather Rizta, and TVS iQube. Reduces efficiency loss.
• CBS (Combined Braking System): Available in Ampere Magnus, TVS iQube, and Hero Electric.
• Reverse Assist: Ola S1 X and TVS iQube offer this for improved parking.
• Fall Detection & Auto Cut-off: Ather Rizta S has “FallSafe,” which is uncommon in this price bracket.
• Best Value-for-Tech Scooter Under Rs. 1 Lakh?

Ather Rizta S (in subsidy-prominent states)

• High-end app support, all-digital UI, family-oriented features, and Ather Stack OTA system.
• Industry-leading build and software integration, particularly if you like connectivity.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Budget Electric Scooters Segment

The 1 lakh electric scooter segment is stealthily propelling India’s electric mobility revolution. These scooters are optimized for daily chores without fluff, providing savvy economics, basic features, and urban-friendly performance. They do have some trade-offs, though, which buyers should consider before they buy.

Pros & Cons:

→ Lower upfront expense and operating expenses are usually Rs. 0.25–Rs. 0.35/km, much less than petrol.

→ Ideal for city travel, college trips, and last-mile delivery applications.

→ FAME-II and state EV policies get models into the Rs. 70K–Rs. 95K price range.

→ Fewer moving components, no engine oil, fewer breakdowns.

Lower peak speeds and lesser performance in certain models

→ Top speeds usually between 45–70 km/h — not suitable for highway driving or heavy pillion.

→ Most affordable models only offer standard 5–6 hr home charging; public chargers are likely to be incompatible.

→ Particularly so for newer or smaller EV brands (e.g., Okaya, Bounce) in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

→ Depreciation rates for EVs are not known; resale value can be less than that of ICE scooters in 2025.

Best Budget Electric Scooters that suit your Pocket

Every electric scooter is not created equal — and neither are you. If you’re a college student who needs something agile or a working professional who requires a dependable daily commute, selecting the perfect EV for your use case guarantees long-term satisfaction and return.

For College Students: Top Choices: Bounce Infinity E1+, Hero Electric Flash LX

• Why: Convenient to park, low-speed models with interchangeable batteries that can be charged at hostels or PGs.
• Bonus: Affordable price points and lesser paperwork.
• For Daily Office Commute – Longer Range + Low Charging Time
• Top Choices: Ola S1 X (3kWh), Ather Rizta S, Ampere Magnus EX
• Why: ~100–125 km range provides 2–3 days of office commute on a single charge.
• Look For: Respectable top speed, comfortable ride quality, app-driven navigation (if available).

‍For Families: Top Picks: Ather Rizta S, Ampere NXG

• Why: More spacious seats, effective suspension, bigger boot capacity for groceries or luggage.
• Extra: Footrests for kids, double shock absorbers, balance-friendly design.
• For Occasional Users – Low Upfront Cost & Easy Maintenance
• Top Picks: Hero Electric Optima CX (Single Battery), Bounce E1+
• Why: Low upfront cost and few ongoing expenses make these ideal for weekend runs or occasional use.

Comparison Table

Final Verdict: Best Electric Scooter Under Rs. 1 Lakh in 2025?

The best electric scooters under Rs. 1 lakh in 2025 hinge less on the brand and more on your particular usage, riding habits, and local infrastructure. Each electric scooters in this segment provides a different type of value — whether it’s range, technology, or simplicity of ownership.

Top Picks by Use-Case:

1. Best Range & Speed: Ola S1 X (3kWh)

→ Suitable for those seeking good performance and extended range on a low budget.

2. Best Family-Friendly Design: Ather Rizta S

→ Roomy, secure, and dependable — well worth it if your state provides maximum subsidy.

3. Best Value-for-Money (VFM): Ampere Magnus EX / NXG

→ Equilibrium of range, comfort, and low cost of ownership — ideal for daily commuters.

Final Thoughts:

• There’s no “one-size-fits-all” — the needs of a metro city student will be different from those of a delivery rider in a Tier-2 town.
• Think about range, battery type, brand support, and charging options before selecting.
• Always go for a test ride, compare the on-road price with subsidies, and check the brand’s service availability in your city.
• The correct budget EV is not just a scooter — it’s a cleaner, smarter way of moving. Make the smart choice.

FAQs

Q1. What Electric scooters offer the best range below Rs. 1 lakh in 2025?

The Ola S1 X (3kWh) has the best real-world range of approximately 100–105 km, with a certified range of up to 125 km. Closest rivals are the Ampere NXG and Okaya Faast F3, both offering 100+ km per charge based on ride mode.

Q2. Do I get fast charging in this price bracket?

Fast charging is limited but available. Ather Rizta S has support for Ather Grid fast charging (~1.5 km/min), and certain Ola S1 X models might gain Hypercharger network access over time. Most budget scooters continue to depend on 5–6 hour home charging.

Q3. What’s the typical life of a budget EV battery?

Most lithium-ion batteries used in this category last 3–5 years or around 30,000–50,000 km, depending on usage, climate, and charging habits. Ather and Ola provide 3–5 year warranties, which give peace of mind.

Q4. Are there no-cost finance plans or EMI available?

Yes. Ola, Ather, Ampere, and Bounce brands provide EMI plans from Rs. 1,999/month with 24–36 month tenures. Some dealers and NBFCs provide zero-down-payment or no-cost EMI schemes during promotions or festive seasons.

Q5. What is better: removable or fixed battery scooters under Rs. 1 lakh?

• Removable battery electric scooters (such as Bounce Infinity and Hero Optima CX) are best suited for users who do not have a home charging setup (like PGs or apartments).
• Fixed batteries (Ola, Ather) are more settled, provide stronger water resistance, and are more integrated with the scooter’s software and body.
• Verdict: Opt for removable for convenience; fixed for long-term reliability.

Q6. Which brands provide the best post-sales support in Tier-2 cities?

• TVS iQube and Hero Electric Scooters have the largest dealership and service network in Tier-2/3 cities.
• Ola Electric is growing aggressively through experience centers.
• Ather Energy is established in metro clusters and rapidly developing in Tier-2 cities, yet it is still restricted to rural markets.