Ola Electric burst into India’s EV scene in 2021 with bold promises: cutting-edge design, powerful performance, and a smartphone-like user experience. The Ola S1 range—spanning the entry-level S1 X to the flagship S1 Pro+—introduced premium spec within urban reach. But as real-world experiences rolled in, cracks emerged beneath the sleek surface.
The Lineup: Specs at a Glance
Ola now offers three main trims to match varying needs and budgets:
- S1 X: Affordable baseline; 4 kWh battery, 125 km/h top speed, 0‑40 in ~3 seconds. Entry-level display LCD without full-touchscreen MoveOS.
- S1 Pro: Flagship performance sweet spot: 3–4 kWh battery, 116 km/h top speed, 0‑40 in ~2.9 seconds, 7″ full-color touchscreen, multiple riding modes.
- S1 Pro+: Sports variant with 5.3 kWh battery offering up to 320 km IDC range, 141 km/h top speed, and a lightning-fast 0‑40 km/h in ~2.1 seconds.
All models share robust features—12″ alloy wheels, dual disc brakes, CBS, tubular frames, tubeless tires, and under-seat storage (~36 L).
Design & Tech: Sleek, Connected, Customizable
Ola’s design language is crisp and futuristic—sleek curves, integrated LED lighting, and vibrant color palette that gives urban flair . The cabins boast generous storage and smart suspension, built around a practical commuter-friendly layout.
Tech stands out with MoveOS: NFC proximity unlocking, OTA updates, pronouncements of cruise control, hill-hold, voice assistant, and fall detection—all promising Toyota-like smartness on two wheels .
Performance & Range: Speeds and Stamina
Ola’s spec sheet is impressive:
- Pro+: 0–40 in 2.1s, 141 km/h top speed, 320 km IDC range.
- Pro: 0–40 in 2.9s, 116 km/h top speed, 181 km range.
- X: 4s acceleration, 125 km/h top speed, 242 km IDC range for 4 kWh variant.
Real-world range varies—Pro+ users see ~300 km while Pro and X users average around 80–150 km depending on riding style.
Charging infrastructure supports Hypercharger fast-charges and overnight home plugs.
Ola’s Pushback: Extended Warranties & Updates
Ola has responded with expanded warranties: standard batteries now offer 3 years/50k km + optional extensions to 8 years/125k km. They also promised delayed features like cruise control and navigation via OTA by mid-2022—but delivery has been sluggish.
Competitor Landscape: How Ola Stacks Up
Ola faces strong opposition from:
- Ather 450X: Refined, ABS-equipped, proven support infrastructure.
- TVS iQube: Reliable, well-funded dealer network.
- Bajaj Chetak and Simple One: Stylish and sturdy, though feature-sparse.
Ola edges ahead on acceleration, boot space, and tech—but lags in support and reliability.
Conclusion: High-Potential, High-Risk Package
The Ola S1 series heralds next-gen electric scoots—sleek, fast, and smart. Almost “smartphones on wheels” in performance and design. But its transformative vision is compromised by inconsistent build quality, sparse support, and battery/warranty controversies.