Think of your daily ride crowded streets, fuel bills, and endless traffic stops. Now imagine replacing that with a quiet, smooth, and affordable electric scooter. That’s exactly what TVS has introduced with its latest Orbiter electric scooter, priced at just ₹99,900 (ex-showroom). With an impressive claimed range of 158 km, advanced safety features, and smart tech, the Orbiter is designed to make EV ownership more accessible and practical for everyday riders in India.
The launch comes at a time when the Indian electric scooter market is heating up with multiple players like Ola, Ather, and Hero vying for attention.
TVS, being one of India’s most trusted two-wheeler brands, is strategically positioning the Orbiter to appeal to budget-conscious yet tech-savvy buyers. For many households looking to buy their first EV, this could be a turning point one where affordability doesn’t mean compromising on range or features.
What Makes the TVS Orbiter Stand Out?
1. Affordable Electric Commuting
- At under ₹1 lakh, the Orbiter is TVS’s most budget-friendly EV yet, offering serious value for money.
- It is positioned below the popular TVS iQube, making it a natural choice for buyers entering the EV market for the first time.
- Considering rising petrol prices, the running cost per km of the Orbiter is a fraction of what petrol scooters demand, making it attractive for daily riders.
2. Long Range for Daily Use
- Powered by a 3.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Orbiter promises up to 158 km range on a single charge (IDC-certified).
- In real-world conditions, riders can expect around 120 km, which comfortably covers daily city commutes, even with some detours.
- For perspective, the average Indian two-wheeler rider travels 30–40 km per day, meaning the Orbiter could last three to four days on a single charge.
3. Tech-Loaded Features
- A 5.5-inch colour LCD display synced with TVS’s SmartXonnect app provides navigation, call/SMS alerts, ride analytics, and OTA software updates.
- Safety-focused features include:
- Cruise control (a segment-first at this price point)
- Hill-hold assist for steep slopes
- Reverse assist for easy parking
- Auto motor cut-off in case of a fall
- Riders also get geo-fencing, anti-theft alerts, and crash notifications for peace of mind.
- Such premium features are often seen in EVs priced above ₹1.5 lakh, making Orbiter a rare value-packed option in the sub-₹1 lakh segment.
4. Design & Storage
- The Orbiter’s design is practical and stylish, with clean lines, a tall windscreen, and LED lighting.
- 34 litres of under-seat storage (enough for two half-face helmets) plus additional front storage make it family-friendly.
- The flat floorboard offers extra legroom and utility.
- TVS has also ensured six vibrant colour choices so buyers can personalize their scooter to their taste.
TVS Orbiter Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹99,900 (ex-showroom) |
| Battery | 3.1 kWh Li-ion (IP67 rated) |
| Range (Claimed) | 158 km |
| Top Speed | 68 km/h |
| Brakes | Drum front & rear (with CBS) |
| Storage | 34 L under-seat + front apron compartment |
| Smart Features | Cruise control, reverse assist, SmartXonnect, hill-hold, navigation |
| Charging | 0–80% in approx. 4 hours 10 minutes |
| Colours | Six options including Neon Sunburst & Lunar Grey |
Orbiter vs iQube: Which One’s Better?
| Feature | Orbiter | iQube (Base Variant) |
| Price (ex-showroom) | ₹99,900 | ~₹1.08 lakh |
| Battery Capacity | 3.1 kWh | 2.2 kWh |
| Claimed Range | 158 km | 94 km |
| Features | Cruise control, hill-hold, reverse assist | Basic smart features |
Verdict: If you’re looking for maximum range and value, the Orbiter edges ahead. The iQube, however, feels slightly more premium in build and finish. Buyers who want a balance of affordability and practicality will find the Orbiter hard to beat.
Why Should You Consider the TVS Orbiter?
- Range that Fits Your Lifestyle: With ~120 km usable range, you won’t be charging daily.
- Packed with Features: Tech like cruise control and reverse assist usually belong to pricier scooters.
- Affordable Ownership: Lower charging and maintenance costs compared to petrol scooters.
- Spacious & Practical: Storage and flat footboard make it ideal for students, families, and office-goers.
- Strong Brand Trust: TVS is known for reliability, a key factor for first-time EV buyers.
- Economic Times Auto: TVS Orbiter launched at ₹99,900
- BikeWale: TVS Orbiter Electric Scooter Launch
- TVS Motor Company Official Website
FAQs
1. How long does it take to charge the Orbiter?
It takes about 4 hours 10 minutes to reach 80% with the standard 650W charger.
2. Is it suitable for long-distance travel?
Not really. The Orbiter is designed for urban and suburban commutes. Long highway trips may be a stretch given its speed and charging setup.
3. Does it come with multiple variants?
No. Currently, the Orbiter is available in a single fully-loaded variant.
4. What colours are offered?
Six choices, including Neon Sunburst, Lunar Grey, Stratos Blue, Cosmic Titanium, Stellar Silver, and Martian Copper.
5. Which scooters compete with it?
The Orbiter rivals Ola S1X, Ather Rizta, and Hero Vida VX2 in the sub-₹1 lakh electric scooter space.
Conclusion: A Smart Move by TVS
The TVS Orbiter hits the sweet spot for riders who want a stylish, practical, and feature-rich electric scooter without breaking the bank. At just ₹99,900, it offers class-leading range, segment-first cruise control, and everyday usability that makes city commuting smoother and greener.
With the Orbiter, TVS has shown that affordable EVs can still be exciting, safe, and future-ready. For many young professionals, college students, and families, this scooter could well be the gateway to a sustainable lifestyle.
Nand Kishor is a content writer covering business, economy, and world affairs. With a background in journalism, he focuses on clear, ethical, and insightful reporting. Outside of work, he enjoys chess, cricket, and writing short stories.
