TVS Orbiter review: A practical, zippy, city friendly EV scooter that is yet to find its audience.

TVS has recently made headlines by leading the electric two-wheeler market in India, largely due to the success of its iQube model. Now, the company has introduced the Orbiter, a new electric scooter designed on an innovative platform. After spending two weeks testing this scooter, we found that while it showcases some exciting features, it also leaves us with a few unanswered questions. The Orbiter’s design is bolder and sportier, featuring a boxy aesthetic with sharp edges and curves. Although it might not appeal to everyone as much as the iQube does, the scooter certainly grabs attention, especially in vibrant color options. The Neon Sunburst variant, in particular, turned heads during our rides. The design includes a connected daytime running light at the front, evoking a futuristic feel reminiscent of cyberpunk themes. True to TVS's reputation, the build quality is commendable, with sturdy plastic panels and excellent fit and finish, ensuring no unsightly gaps or rough edges. When it comes to riding comfort, the Orbiter accommodates both tall and short riders, with handlebars positioned to avoid knee interference during sharp turns. The spacious seat, measuring 845 mm, offers ample room for passengers or cargo. Under the hood, the Orbiter is powered by a hub-mounted BLDC motor that delivers a peak output of 2.5 kW and 120 Nm of torque. The scooter operates quietly, creating a peaceful riding experience, although the top speed is somewhat limited. Riders can choose between two modes: 'Eco', which caps speed at 45 km/h, and 'City', which allows for a top speed of 68 km/h. While it’s not the fastest electric scooter on the market, it performs adequately for urban commuting, handling city traffic and quick maneuvers with ease. In terms of range, the Orbiter utilizes the same 3.1 kWh battery as the iQube but boasts a higher IDC range of 158 km, attributed to improved aerodynamics and motor tuning. In our testing, we achieved a city mode range of 110 km and an impressive 148 km in Eco mode, making it suitable for daily commutes. The standard 650W charger can charge the battery from 0 to 80% in about 4 hours and 10 minutes. The scooter’s suspension is designed for comfort, easily absorbing the bumps of urban roads, and its hill-hold assist feature ensures stability on inclines. The 14-inch front wheel enhances stability while maintaining agility in corners. However, the braking system may raise concerns, as it features 130mm drum brakes at both ends, and the absence of a front disc brake may leave some riders wanting more. The Orbiter comes equipped with a color LCD display, cruise control, and a reliable hill-hold function. It offers practical features like a 34-liter storage boot, although it's not spacious enough for larger helmets, and includes a front cubby with a USB charging port. The TVS Connect app adds functionality, providing information on nearby charging stations and real-time charging status. Priced at approximately Rs 1.08 lakh (on-road in Noida after subsidies), the Orbiter is positioned as an entry-level model in TVS's electric lineup. It’s a well-engineered and practical scooter, ideal for beginners and families whose primary travel needs are urban. Nevertheless, its modest performance and subdued riding dynamics leave its target audience somewhat unclear. While it stands out on its own, it faces tough competition from within TVS's own product range.