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TVS Orbiter First Ride Review: The Perfect Electric City Commuter
Indian two-wheeler giant TVS recently launched the Orbiter electric scoter, its new entry-level offering our growing EV marlet. Launched at ₹99,999 (ex-showroom), the TVS Orbiter combines modern features, a practical claimed range, and a somewhat different design as it looks to take down the Ola and Vida offerings at the entry-level EV price point.
We recently got to ride the TVS Orbiter atthe firm's facility in Hosur and here are our thoughts after a few hours in the saddle.
TVS Orbiter First Ride Review – Design & Features
The TVS Orbiter is one of those scooters that instantly catches your attention. At the front, it sports a large LED headlamp that gives it a bold, futuristic face, while a slim DRL strip on the apron adds a nice modern touch.
The design is a little boxy overall, but that's part of its charm. It feels purposeful and solid, much like the iQube, but at the same time manages to look sleeker and more stylish thanks to the vibrant side panel.
The tall visor and the flat, single-piece seat tie the look together, and TVS has made sure buyers get plenty of choice with six vibrant colour options - Neon Sunburst, Stratos Blue, Lunar Grey, Martian Copper, Cosmic Titanium and Stellar Silver.
Move past the styling, and the Orbiter really shows its strength in features. The scooter is equipped with an all-LED lighting setup. The 5.5-inch colour LCD console is crisp and easy to read, and with smartphone connectivity, it becomes even more useful.
Riders can access turn-by-turn navigation, SMS updates, and even call alerts on the go. One feature that stands out is cruise control. It's something you don't usually see on a scooter at this price point. The quality of the switchgear feels robust. Buttons for lights, indicators, ride modes and the aforementioned cruise control are marked and easy to find and use.
Where the Orbiter is rather practical and comfortable as well. The 34-litre underseat storage is genuinely spacious - enough to fit two half-face helmets without a struggle. Add to that a front cubby hole and a 290mm-long footboard, and you have more than enough room for daily essentials, shopping bags, or just carrying a bit extra on those quick errands.
The Orbiter's seat feels plush, with a broad seat base and gentle contours offering good support to both rider and pillion and the long floorboard ensuring there is enough space for even taller riders.
The Orbiter also brings in some clever tech to make life easier for riders with features like reverse mode, regenerative braking, hill-hold assist. It also gets features geo-fencing, tow alert, and crash/fall alert integrated into the package.
TVS Orbiter First Ride Review – Specifications & Dimensions
The TVS Orbiter is powered by a 3.1kWh IP67-rated battery pack paired with a 2.1kW hub-mounted motor. TVS claims an IDC (Indian Driving Condition) range of 158km. Top speed is rated at 68kmph, and the Orbiter can accelerate from 0 to 40kmph in 6.8 seconds.
Charging is handled by a 650W unit that takes 4 hours and 10 minutes to go from 0 to 80 percent. The Orbiter also comes with two riding modes - Eco and City - giving the rider some flexibility in performance and efficiency.
The TVS Orbiter rides on a 14-inch front wheel and a 12-inch rear wheel, both fitted with 90-section tyres. Suspension duties are managed by a telescopic fork at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear. Braking is via drums at both ends with CBS as standard.
The Orbiter offers a ground clearance of 169mm, and it tips the scales at just 112kg, making it feel just as light as a conventional ICE scooter.
| Specification | TVS Orbiter Electric |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 3.1 kWh |
| Claimed Range | 158 km |
| Top Speed | 68 km/h |
| Charging Time (Fast) | 4 hours 10 min (0–80%) |
| Kerb Weight | 112 kg |
TVS Orbiter First Ride Review – Riding Impressions
The TVS Orbiter feels right at home in the city. The wide handlebar is easy to reach, and the upright riding posture ensures a relaxed riding experience. The Orbiter's seat is soft and well-cushioned and on the go it provides a rather comfortable ride, which is perfect for the city roads it is meant to roam.
On the move, the Orbiter feels nimble and light, thanks to its 112kg kerb weight. Acceleration is smooth and responsive, with the 2.5kW motor taking it from 0-40kmph in a claimed 6.8 seconds. While it doesn't deliver the rush of sportier EVs when accelerating, the oomph is more than enough to be both practical and enjoyable and the 68kmph top speed is more than enough for urban riding.
Braking is handled by TVS' SBS (synchronised braking system) setup with drums at both ends. While a front disc would have added more confidence, the setup feels adequate for the scooter's performance. The Orbiter's suspension setup is quite well balanced. The Orbiter holds its line well around corners and feels stable in day-to-day use and the ride remains composed even over rough surfaces.
Cruise control, riding modes, and SmartXonnect features - including call and text alerts - add a layer of convenience, rounding off a practical and enjoyable city commuter. However, these features along with the real-world range is something we'll be able to tell you more of once we get the TVS Orbiter in for a full-fledged road test on Banglaore's streets.
TVS Orbiter Electric Review – Verdict & Final Thoughts
The TVS Orbiter stands out as a practical, city-focused electric scooter. With its 3.1kWh battery offering a claimed 158km range, smooth acceleration, and comfortable suspension setup, it feels well-suited for everyday city use. Features like cruise control, SmartXonnect connectivity, and generous storage add to its convenience.
While its 68kmph top speed and drum brake setup may not thrill enthusiasts, the Orbiter shines in comfort, usability, and efficiency. The TVS Orbiter is an electric scooter that we would recommend for those needing an electric ride for the daily commute.
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