TVS Orbiter Electric Scooter Launched in India – A Game Changer for Budget EV Buyers
The Indian electric two-wheeler market is heating up, and TVS Motor Company has just raised the stakes with the launch of its brand-new TVS Orbiter electric scooter. Priced at ₹99,900 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru and Delhi), the Orbiter is designed to be an affordable yet feature-packed EV that appeals to young urban riders and first-time electric scooter buyers.
The Orbiter is regarded as one of the most promising newcomers to the quickly expanding EV market because of its remarkable IDC-certified range of 158 km, segment-first cruise control, and connected technology through TVS’s SmartXonnect platform. Does it, however, live up to the hype? Let’s examine it more closely.
Background: Why TVS Needed the Orbiter
TVS has already made a strong mark with its popular iQube Electric, which caters to premium EV buyers. However, India’s EV market is also witnessing a surge in demand for affordable options that do not compromise on performance and range. Competitors like Ola S1 X, Hero Vida V1, and Bajaj Chetak Urbane are all trying to capture this segment.
The TVS Orbiter electric scooter has been positioned below the iQube, not to replace it but to complement TVS’s EV lineup. While the iQube is marketed as a family-friendly, comfort-oriented scooter, the Orbiter is aimed at youth, students, and daily commuters who want a stylish, connected, and efficient ride at a pocket-friendly price.
Price and Variants
The Orbiter enters the market at an introductory price of ₹99,900 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru and Delhi). With subsidies under the PM e-Drive scheme, this makes the Orbiter one of the most affordable long-range electric scooters in India today.
While TVS has currently launched a single battery configuration, the company may introduce additional trims or performance packs in the future depending on customer demand.
TVS Orbiter Electric Scooter Range and Battery
One of the most impressive aspects of the Orbiter is its range.
- Battery Capacity: 3.1 kWh lithium-ion pack
- Claimed Range: 158 km (IDC-certified)
- Charging: Fast-charging support (exact times vary by charger)
To put this into perspective, the base TVS iQube offers just 94 km range with a smaller 2.2 kWh pack, while its higher variant with a 3.1 kWh pack delivers 123 km. The Orbiter, despite being the cheaper option, manages to push the claimed range to 158 km, making it a huge value proposition for budget-conscious riders.
Key Features That Stand Out
TVS has not compromised on technology or comfort. The Orbiter comes loaded with premium features usually seen on higher-priced scooters.
✅ Tech & Connectivity
- SmartXonnect app integration with smartphone connectivity
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates for long-term support
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Geo-fencing & anti-theft alerts
- Crash/fall alerts for safety
✅ Rider Comfort & Safety
- Cruise control (segment-first)
- Hill-hold assist
- Reverse mode for easy parking
- USB charging port
- Parking assist mode
✅ Design & Practicality
- Futuristic LED lighting setup (DRLs and headlamps)
- 14-inch front & 12-inch rear wheels – first in segment for better road stability
- 169 mm ground clearance for Indian roads
- 34-litre under-seat storage (enough for two helmets)
- Flat and wide footboard for extra comfort
Design and Styling
The TVS Orbiter electric scooter follows a minimal yet futuristic design language. Its clean lines, LED DRLs, sleek headlamp unit, and aerodynamic body panels give it a modern appeal. The Orbiter is clearly built to attract style-conscious urban riders who want something cooler than traditional petrol scooters.
TVS also offers the scooter in multiple youthful color options to enhance personalization.
Market Strategy and Competition
TVS has adopted a phased rollout plan, beginning with Bengaluru, followed by other metros and tier-2 cities. The Orbiter is expected to compete directly with:
- Ola S1 X (₹79,999 onwards)
- Hero Vida V1 (₹97,800 onwards)
- Bajaj Chetak Urbane (₹1.15 lakh onwards)
- Ather Rizta (family-oriented EV)
What makes the Orbiter special is its balance of affordability, long range, and modern features—a package that could help TVS dominate this segment.
Business Impact for TVS
Despite ongoing challenges like rare-earth magnet supply shortages, TVS continues to hold the top spot in India’s EV scooter market with nearly 25% share. With the Orbiter, TVS is expected to further strengthen its lead by capturing first-time EV buyers and young professionals.
