Ola S1 X Review: The Cheapest Way to Go Electric

The Ola S1 X is currently the most affordable entry point into high-speed electric mobility in India. With prices starting at approximately ₹69,999 (ex-Delhi) for the 2kWh variant, it directly targets budget buyers shifting from petrol scooters to EVs.

It offers a massive 34-liter under-seat boot and a practical physical key system. However, cost-cutting is visible in the segmented display and hub motor setup. So, is it truly the cheapest smart way to go electric in 2026? Let’s find out.

1. EV Landscape in 2026: Why the Ola S1 X Matters

The S1 X directly challenges 100–110cc ICE scooters like the Honda Activa. With petrol prices fluctuating and electric adoption rising, affordability is everything.

In 2026, EV pricing is heavily influenced by the PM E-DRIVE (Prime Minister Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement), which replaced FAME-II.

The Ola S1 X qualifies for this scheme and receives approximately ₹5,000 per kWh of battery capacity, keeping prices competitive.

Unlike the premium Ola S1 Pro, the S1 X is positioned as a no-frills city commuter. It competes with base variants of the TVS iQube and the Bajaj Chetak 2901.

2. Battery, Range & Performance

Battery Technology: LFP Advantage

The S1 X uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery chemistry. Compared to NMC cells, LFP offers:

• Better thermal stability
• Longer cycle life
• Improved safety

All battery packs are IP67 rated for water and dust resistance.

Battery Options

• 2kWh
• 3kWh
• 4kWh

Certified vs Real-World Range

There is a noticeable gap between IDC figures and practical riding conditions.

Motor & Performance

• Hub-mounted motor
• Peak Power: 6kW
• Rated Power: 2.7kW
• Top Speed:
  
  • 85 kmph (2kWh)
  • 90 kmph (3kWh & 4kWh)

The hub motor keeps costs down but lacks the sharp initial torque of mid-drive competitors.

Charging Time

Using a 500W portable home charger:

• 2kWh: ~5 hours (0-100%)
• 3kWh: ~7.4 hours
• 4kWh: ~6.5–7 hours

Fast charging support is limited compared to the S1 Pro.

3. Detailed Specifications

4. Features & Technology

The S1 X focuses on utility over premium tech.

Display

• 4.3-inch segmented LCD (non-touch)
• Shows speed, range, and riding mode
• Visibility slightly weak under direct sunlight

Practical Additions

• Physical key ignition
• 34-liter boot (best in segment at this price)
• Reverse mode
• Cruise control
• Basic app alerts

It runs on MoveOS 5 software but lacks onboard navigation and speakers found in higher variants.

5. Real-World Ownership Experience

Ride Quality

• Telescopic front forks
• Twin rear shock absorbers
• Slightly firm suspension
• Better pothole handling than older single-sided setups

Running Cost Calculation

At ₹8 per unit electricity:

• 4kWh full charge cost ≈ ₹32
• Running cost ≈ ₹0.22 per km

Compared to petrol scooters (₹2.50 per km average), savings are significant.

Service Network Reality

Ola Electric has expanded rapidly, but service infrastructure still faces:

• Delayed turnaround times
• Parts availability issues
• Technician training gaps

Ownership experience largely depends on city-wise service quality.

6. Pros & Cons

Pros

✔ Extremely low running cost (₹0.22/km)
✔ 34-liter practical boot space
✔ Physical key reliability
✔ 8-year battery warranty
✔ Competitive pricing after subsidy

Cons

✘ Thin plastic body panels
✘ Basic segmented display
✘ Hub motor lacks aggressive torque
✘ Long charging time (3kWh/4kWh)
✘ Service center unpredictability

7. Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

The Ola S1 X is a “Buy” if:

• You travel under 60 km daily
• You want minimal running costs
• You need large storage
• Budget matters more than premium build

It is ideal for:

• College students
• Office commuters
• Delivery partners

However, it is a “Hold” if:

• You want premium build quality
• You frequently travel long distances
• Service support in your city is weak

If strong after-sales and metal body construction are priorities, consider the Bajaj Chetak, even if the range is slightly lower for a similar price.