The electric scooter market in India has been rapidly evolving, with manufacturers constantly balancing performance, features, and affordability. TVS Motor Company’s iQube has consistently been a top performer in this segment since its 2020 launch. Now, with the reintroduction of the 2.2kWh variant as the new entry-level model, TVS aims to make electric mobility more accessible without compromising on the core iQube experience.
Table of Contents
Design and Build Quality
The TVS iQube 2.2 maintains the familiar, understated design language that has characterized the iQube series. While it may not turn heads with flashy styling, the scooter’s practical approach to design becomes evident in daily use. The build quality feels solid and premium, which is often a concern with budget-friendly electric vehicles.
What sets the iQube 2.2 apart from other affordable electric scooters is its feature retention. Unlike competitors who strip away essentials to hit lower price points, TVS has maintained most of the premium features from higher variants. The scooter comes equipped with a 30-litre boot (slightly smaller than the 32-litre unit on other variants), park assist functionality, and a comprehensive color TFT display.
The boot, while spacious, has a shallow design that may challenge storage of taller items. However, for everyday use cases like groceries and personal items, it proves more than adequate.
Key Specifications
| Specification | TVS iQube 2.2 |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 2.2 kWh |
| Motor Power | Hub-mounted electric motor |
| Top Speed | 75 kph |
| Range (Eco Mode) | 75 km (claimed) / 76.4 km (tested) |
| Charging Time | 3 hours 24 minutes (0-100%) |
| Charger Power | 650W |
| Kerb Weight | 110 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 30 litres |
| Brakes | Front disc, rear drum with CBS |
| Price | ₹1,00,000 (approx.) |
Performance and Riding Experience
The iQube 2.2 delivers a riding experience that closely mimics traditional petrol scooters, minus the engine noise. At 110kg, it’s among the lightest electric scooters available, making it particularly manageable for smaller riders. The low 770mm seat height enhances accessibility while maintaining comfort for taller riders.
The scooter offers two riding modes: Eco and Power. In Eco mode, the top speed is limited to 47 kph, which proves surprisingly capable for city riding. The motor provides adequate torque for climbing flyovers with a pillion and overtaking traffic. Power mode unlocks the full 75 kph top speed and provides zippier acceleration for highway merging and overtaking.
While the initial acceleration isn’t as energetic as some competitors like the Ather Rizta, the iQube compensates with consistent performance throughout its speed range. The hub-mounted motor operates whisper-quiet, contributing to the refined riding experience.
Comfort and Handling
The iQube’s suspension setup deserves special mention. The plush suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, keeping riders comfortable even on Mumbai’s notoriously challenging roads. The handling strikes an excellent balance between agility in city traffic and stability at higher speeds.
The seat accommodates two full-size adults comfortably, though heavier riders may find the padding slightly soft for extended rides. The overall ergonomics are well-considered, with a spacious rider triangle that doesn’t feel cramped.
Range and Charging
One of the iQube 2.2’s strongest points is its range accuracy. The claimed 75km range in Eco mode was actually exceeded in real-world testing, with the scooter covering 76.4km. This reliability in range estimation significantly enhances user confidence – a critical factor for electric vehicle adoption.
The 650W charger is compact and efficient, completing a full charge in just 3 hours and 24 minutes. This combination of a smaller battery and faster charging creates one of the quickest charging cycles in the industry, making the scooter practical for daily use even without overnight charging.
Technology and Features
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| TFT Display | ✓ Color display with comprehensive information |
| Park Assist | ✓ Forward and reverse assistance |
| Mobile App Integration | ✓ TVS Connect app |
| Front Disc Brake | ✓ Rare in this price segment |
| Brake Lock Clasp | ✓ Useful for slope parking |
| Hill Hold Control | ✗ Not available |
| Multi-function Key | ✗ Separate boot key required |
The TFT display provides all essential information clearly, though some functions like resetting the trip meter require app access, which feels unnecessarily complicated. The park assist function works well but requires restarting the scooter after use.
Areas for Improvement
While the iQube 2.2 excels in most areas, there are minor irritants that could be addressed:
- Key System: A multi-function ignition key would simplify boot access
- Charger Security: The charger should lock in place during charging
- Park Assist: The motor shouldn’t shut off after using park assist
- App Dependency: Basic functions shouldn’t require app access
Value Proposition
Priced at approximately ₹1,00,000, the iQube 2.2 offers exceptional value in the electric scooter segment. Unlike many budget EVs that feel compromised, this variant maintains the premium iQube experience while significantly reducing the entry price.
The scooter is ideally suited for users with daily running under 50km who have secure home charging facilities. For this use case, the iQube 2.2 represents one of the most compelling electric scooter options available in India today.
Verdict
The TVS iQube 2.2 successfully proves that affordable doesn’t have to mean compromised. It retains the core strengths that made the iQube series popular while making electric mobility accessible to a broader audience. The combination of reliable range, quick charging, premium features, and TVS’s reputation for reliability makes this scooter a standout choice in the entry-level electric segment.
Overall Rating: 9/10
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the real-world range of the TVS iQube 2.2? A: In Eco mode, the scooter achieved 76.4km in testing, slightly exceeding the claimed 75km range.
Q: How long does it take to fully charge the iQube 2.2? A: With the 650W charger, a complete 0-100% charge takes 3 hours and 24 minutes.
Q: Is the iQube 2.2 suitable for highway riding? A: Yes, with a 75 kph top speed, it’s capable of highway riding, though it’s optimized for city commuting.
Q: What’s the main difference between the 2.2kWh and higher variants? A: The primary difference is the smaller battery capacity and slightly reduced top speed, but most features remain the same.
