Last month, we were the first to report that TVS is working on an entry-level electric scooter, which will slot in below the iQube when it launches later this year. We can now confirm that this scooter is likely going to be called the Orbiter and is unlikely to slot in under the iQube, Jupiter or XL brands.
- Orbiter name frontrunner for new TVS EV
- Likely to be a simple offering to keep costs in check
- TVS has patented a couple of different names for EVs
Orbiter name likely for entry-level TVS electric scooter
Expected to be priced in the ballpark of base iQube 2.2, around the Rs 1 lakh mark
While TVS has a properly comprehensive model line-up within its iQube e-scooter portfolio, the company believes it needs to have a model below that family as well. Currently, pricing for the iQube starts at just above the Rs 1 lakh mark for the base 2.2kWh variant and goes up to Rs 1.59 lakh for the flagship ST 5.1kWh variant.
Since the Orbiter is expected to form the entry point into TVS’ electric scooter portfolio, it is likely to be priced around or lower than the Rs 1 lakh mark. While specific details about the Orbiter’s design and cycle parts are scarce at the moment, it is likely that this new EV could follow in the footsteps of the iQube, which uses a hub-mounted motor sourced from Bosch, and it will likely be a simple, no-frills offering to ensure that costs are in check. The Orbiter is expected to launch in India around the festive season, if not a little before.
According to our sources, the Orbiter name is the ‘frontrunner’ for the new entry-level TVS EV, but it hasn’t been finalised yet. The final decision regarding the name of a new product is often taken much closer to its launch.
While TVS has trademarked the Orbiter name, the company has also filed trademark applications for the names ‘EV-one’ and ‘O’ (simply the letter), and it remains to be seen whether TVS utilises these names. Stay tuned to our website for the latest developments on this matter.
Ved Janve
Vishal Venugopal
