The electric vehicle (EV) revolution in India continues to gain momentum with the launch of the Simple One Gen 1.5 electric scooter. Priced at ₹1.66 lakh (ex-showroom, Bengaluru), this latest offering from Simple Energy aims to redefine urban commuting by delivering an impressive range of 248km on a full charge. With this launch, Simple One directly enters into competition with popular rivals such as the Ola S1 Pro Plus, Ather 450X, and TVS iQube.
A Step Towards Sustainable Mobility
Simple Energy has been a key player in India’s EV space, focusing on innovation and sustainability. The Simple One Gen 1.5 is an upgrade over its predecessor, featuring enhanced performance, improved safety features, and a refined design. With increasing fuel prices and a growing emphasis on eco-friendly transportation, the Simple One Gen 1.5 emerges as an attractive alternative for urban commuters seeking affordability, efficiency, and sustainability.
Performance and Range
One of the standout features of the Simple One Gen 1.5 is its claimed range of 248km on a single charge, which puts it among the best in its segment. The scooter is powered by a 5kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which ensures long-distance travel without frequent recharges. The electric motor produces a peak power output of 8.5kW (11.4bhp) and 72Nm of torque, delivering impressive acceleration and smooth performance.
The scooter is capable of 0-40 km/h acceleration in just 2.77 seconds, making it one of the fastest accelerating electric scooters in India. It also features a top speed of 105 km/h, ensuring that riders can navigate both city roads and highways with ease.
Battery and Charging
Simple Energy has integrated a highly efficient air-cooled lithium-ion battery pack, which is removable for convenient charging. The battery supports fast charging, with the company claiming that just 1.5 km of range can be added per minute using their fast-charging network. This means riders can quickly charge their scooters while taking short breaks, eliminating range anxiety for long-distance commuting.
Moreover, the battery management system (BMS) ensures optimal performance and longevity, reducing degradation over time. The battery pack is also IP67-rated, ensuring resistance against water and dust.
Design and Features
The Simple One Gen 1.5 carries forward a modern and sleek design with an emphasis on aerodynamics. The scooter features LED lighting, sharp bodywork, and a spacious footboard, ensuring both aesthetics and practicality.
Some notable features include:
- 7-inch touchscreen instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity
- Navigation system
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates
- Ride modes for personalized performance
- Disc brakes with CBS for enhanced safety
- Large under-seat storage (30 liters capacity)
- Smart connectivity features, including vehicle tracking and geo-fencing
Competition with Ola S1 Pro Plus
The Ola S1 Pro Plus has been a dominant player in the electric scooter segment, but the Simple One Gen 1.5 offers a strong alternative with its higher claimed range and competitive pricing. Here’s a quick comparison between the two:
| Feature | Simple One Gen 1.5 | Ola S1 Pro Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹1.66 lakh | ₹1.47 lakh |
| Claimed Range | 248 km | 195 km |
| Battery Capacity | 5kWh | 4kWh |
| Peak Power | 8.5kW | 11kW |
| Acceleration (0-40 km/h) | 2.77 sec | 2.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 105 km/h | 120 km/h |
| Storage Capacity | 30L | 36L |
While the Ola S1 Pro Plus offers a slightly higher top speed and more storage, the Simple One Gen 1.5 wins in range, battery efficiency, and pricing. For riders who prioritize longer travel distances and premium features, Simple One could be an excellent option.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a crucial factor in EV adoption, and the Simple One Gen 1.5 is equipped with regenerative braking that helps enhance efficiency while ensuring smooth deceleration. The scooter features front and rear disc brakes with a combined braking system (CBS) for added safety.
Additionally, Simple Energy has improved thermal management in the battery pack, addressing previous concerns regarding overheating. The scooter has undergone rigorous testing for better reliability and durability in various riding conditions.
Pricing and Availability
The Simple One Gen 1.5 is priced at ₹1.66 lakh (ex-showroom, Bengaluru), making it a premium yet value-for-money offering. The scooter is expected to be available across multiple cities in India, with deliveries commencing soon. Interested buyers can pre-book the scooter via the official Simple Energy website or authorized dealerships.
The company is also working on expanding its charging infrastructure, ensuring a seamless ownership experience for its customers.
Final Thoughts
The launch of the Simple One Gen 1.5 marks a significant milestone in India’s growing EV market. With its impressive range, performance, and smart features, it presents a strong challenge to existing electric scooters like the Ola S1 Pro Plus. For urban commuters looking for a practical, stylish, and high-range electric scooter, the Simple One Gen 1.5 is undoubtedly a compelling option.
As the Indian EV industry continues to evolve, competition among brands will lead to more innovation, improved infrastructure, and better affordability, ultimately benefiting consumers and pushing the country closer to a greener future.