TVS is one of the first brands in India to experiment with electric two-wheelers. It all started in 2008 with the launch of the Scooty Teenz electric scooter. Going green was a priority. A few years later, at the 2012 Auto Expo, the TVS Qube hybrid concept reveal. Our particular favorite, though, is the innovative and sporty Creon that was unveiled in 2018. The latter is the most obvious future possibility. While everyone expected that TVS would introduce the Creon, the brand had other plans.
It is unsurprising since TVS felt it needed a commuter-focused scooter, and therefore pursuing a niche market was not a possibility. It required an e-scooter that was more aesthetically pleasing to the people while providing enough daily usage performance. The iQube is the solution. Yes, it's electric, filled with features, and reasonably priced (at least in comparison to its competitors), but is it enough to convince the majority of people to switch from petrol to electric?
Design and features
While appearances are subjective, the iQube is a bit too plain Jane, in our opinion. Apart from the all-white paint scheme and LED lighting, there's nothing to attract attention. On the positive side, the EV's simplicity will allow it fit in with the current crop of ICE-powered scooters designed for families. It's natural to believe that the scooter shares the essence of the Jupiter Grande, and it does, to a degree, due to a few standard components. However, it is all. Indeed, the iQube inspire by India's 2012 Auto Expo's hybrid 'Qube' concept. As a result, the look is squarish.
Its left-hand swingarm cover particularly caught our eye, displaying a lighted 'Electric' logo when the scooter turns on. The square-shaped rearview mirror, on the other hand, is unappealing. While it functions well, it appears to be many decades old.
However, the build quality is lower than its competitors, the Bajaj Chetak and the Ather 450. While the fit and finish are excellent, the switchgear seems cheap and flimsy.
Engine and performance
The TVS iQube has a 4.4kW electric hub motor that generates 140Nm of torque at the wheel. The electric scooter, according to TVS, can achieve a maximum speed of 78kmph and accelerates from 0 to 40kmph in only 4.2 seconds. There are two riding modes available on the iQube: Eco and Sport. The TVS electric scooter's maximum speed limit to 40kmph in Eco mode to save battery life.
The motor power by a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2.25 kWh hidden under the floorboard. It provides a wide range of 75 kilometers and charges entirely in five hours when connected to a 5A charging socket. Fast-charging capabilities will add to the TVS iQube in the near future, and TVS is also striving to improve the charging infrastructure.
Braking and handling
Performance involves risks, which need a safety net. Fortunately, the iQube does not disappoint in this department as well. It fits with a 220mm disc up front and a 130mm drum in the back, coupled with CBS. From 60kmph, slam on the brakes, and the scooter comes to a complete stop in 19.86m. The reference Ather 450 takes 2,64 meters to accomplish the same, and the only weak point in its armor is the feedback provided by the levers. The brakes on the iQube provide enough bite and advancement but lack feel.
How is the riding? Actually, very nice. Three battery packs position centrally to lower the center of gravity. One under the floorboard and two ahead of the storage underneath the seat. As a consequence, the scooter is very stable on straights and poised in corners.
The suspension system of the iQube is well-balanced. It efficiently soaks bumps and maintains its stability even in mid-corner bumps. Thus, you may lean the scooter and scrape the floorboard.
Additionally, once on the scooter, the iQube's weight advantage (118kg) over the TVS Jupiter disappears. It seems to be light on its feet and changes directions rapidly. All while maintaining a high level of grip due to its 12-inch TVS Conta 550 tires. Apart from the improved weight distribution, the iQube's wheelbase is longer than the Jupiter's — 1,300mm vs. 1,275mm. It stabilizes it even when leaning over. With 157mm of ground clearance (7mm more than the Jupiter), gliding over speed breakers and potholes should be simple.
There is a minor issue with the hub motor assembly. As you can see, the whole system must disconnect from under the seat in the case of a tire change. Additionally, getting the coupler involves removing the under-seat panel, which is time-consuming and difficult.
Final verdict
The TVS iQube price at Rs. 1.15 lakh, making it competitive with the Bajaj Chetak and Ather 450. Included in the purchase are a charging cable, an adaptor, and installation. At the moment, there is no subscription fee for SmatXonnect features, but this may change in the future, perhaps changing the structure of features offered.
The TVS iQube is advertised as an everyday electric scooter that will transport you to work and assist you in running errands. It's a highly rider-friendly scooter, and everyone in the family will have a good time riding it, from teens to grandparents. However, if you're searching for an electric scooter that adds some excitement to the journey and isn't simply for day-to-day commuting, as well as a variety of style and design alternatives. You may desire more from the iQube.
