As petrol prices rise, it’s becoming more and more challenging to own and maintain an ICE vehicle in today’s stiff financial conditions. But electric vehicles are here to cover us. With lower running cost and zero maintenance costs, electric vehicles are getting more and more popular among the mainstream audience in India. But attention, the EVs are different from the ICE ones, and you may likely buy the wrong EV if you don’t have the relevant knowledge about electric vehicles.
So, in the blog post, let’s explore how you can choose the right electric scooter, and if you stay till the end, I’ll tell you the secret of getting an electric scooter at a much cheaper price.
How to choose the right Electric Scooter:
Before dwelling on the details, let’s see what factors you must check before purchasing.
1. Range and Battery:
No matter how advanced and futuristic our electric scooters get, range will be one of the biggest USPs of electric vehicles. So, according to the current market conditions and technological status, an electric scooter with a 120-130 km real-life range is the best you can get.
2. Charging Time:
Please take a look at the charging time required for your electric scooter. While it may vary depending on the model, a reasonable expectation is a full charge within 3 to 5 hours. Additionally, if the electric scooter supports fast charging, it’s cherry on top.
3. Power and Performance
Electric motors may be challenging to gauge compared to internal combustion engines. Look for scooters with a decent top speed (at least 80 km/h) and quick acceleration (2-3 seconds from a standstill). These factors contribute to a more enjoyable riding experience, even for short commutes.
Check the rating of the motor, if it’s IP-67 rated it’s a huge green flag.
4. Battery Warranty
Look for scooters that offer a three to five-year warranty on the battery to cover any potential issues. Moreover, consider the long-term cost implications of battery replacement and explore leasing options that provide coverage for product and battery obsolescence.
5. Pricing and Financing Options
Set a budget for your electric scooter purchase. While electric scooters generally cost between Rs 80,000 and Rs 1 lakh, keep in mind that the initial investment may be higher than traditional IC scooters.
Consider leasing options that allow you to pay an easy monthly fee instead of making a large upfront payment. Leasing can also alleviate concerns about reselling the scooter, as you can return it at the end of the lease term.
6. Features and Technology
Evaluate the additional features and technology offered by different electric scooter models. Look for modern dashboards, GPS tracking, over-the-air updates, and remote monitoring capabilities. While these features may not be deal-breakers, they can enhance your overall riding experience.
7. Manufacturer’s Reputation and After-Sales Service
Research the reputation of electric scooter manufacturers. While the EV market is still evolving, consider factors such as investments made by the manufacturer and their technical pedigree. Collaborations with established companies can also indicate the seriousness of the manufacturer. Additionally, ensure that the manufacturer provides efficient after-sales service in case of any breakdowns or maintenance requirements.
8. Total Cost of Ownership
Evaluate the ownership economics of owning an electric scooter. Consider the total cost of ownership, including the initial outflow, monthly expenses (if leasing), fuel costs, and electricity charges. By comparing these factors with traditional IC scooters, you can determine the cost-effectiveness of an electric scooter in the long run.
The Decision-Making Process
Now that you have a clear understanding of the critical factors to consider when buying an electric scooter let’s outline a step-by-step decision-making process to help you make the right choice.
- Assess Your Commuting Needs: Determine your typical commuting distance and riding requirements.
- Set a Budget: Determine your budget range and explore financing options or leasing arrangements.
- Research Available Models: Explore different electric scooter models available in the market and compare their specifications, features, and pricing.
- Narrow Down Your Options: Based on your research, shortlist a few electric scooter models that align with your requirements.
- Test Ride: Whenever possible, test ride the shortlisted models to get a feel for their performance, comfort, and handling.
- Evaluate Warranty and After-Sales Service: Consider the warranty offered on the battery and the availability of efficient after-sales service.
- Consider Long-Term Cost Implications: Evaluate the total cost of ownership, including battery replacement costs, fuel savings, and maintenance expenses.
- Make the Final Decision: Based on your research, test rides, and cost analysis, choose the electric scooter that best suits your needs and preferences.
- Complete the Purchase or Lease: Finalize the purchase or leasing agreement and enjoy your new electric scooter.
Money Saver Tips:
- Apart from paying upfront for your electric scooter, you can lease an electric scooter on an easy monthly fee. Leasing allows you to enjoy the benefits of an electric scooter without the stress of reselling it.
- At zecat, you can lease your dream electric vehicle at an affordable monthly fee, making it more accessible and budget-friendly.
- Keep an eye out for new electric scooter models from reputable manufacturers, as the EV market continues to evolve and introduce exciting options.
