Ather 450X vs TVS iQube S: The Battle of Electric Scooters in India

 

Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a futuristic concept — they’re today’s reality. As the Indian market increasingly shifts towards sustainable mobility, two scooters are leading the electric revolution: the Ather 450X and the TVS iQube S. Both are strong contenders in the premium electric scooter segment, offering high performance, cutting-edge features, and smart connectivity. But which one is better for you?

Let’s compare the Ather 450X and TVS iQube S in terms of design, performance, features, range, pricing, and overall riding experience.

Design and Build Quality

The Ather 450X takes a sporty and futuristic design approach. With sharp lines, a sleek profile, and LED lighting all around, it clearly targets a younger, tech-savvy audience. Its robust build quality and compact dimensions make it an eye-catcher on urban roads. The aggressive front fascia and aerodynamic structure give it a premium scooter feel.

In contrast, the TVS iQube S embraces a more conservative, family-oriented design. It resembles traditional petrol scooters in silhouette but still sports LED lights, a spacious seat, and a broader body. The iQube S is slightly more comfortable for two-up riding due to its longer seat and higher pillion back support.

Verdict: If design is your priority and you want a modern look, Ather wins. For those seeking familiarity and comfort, TVS is a better bet.

Performance and Ride Quality

Performance is one of Ather 450X’s strongest suits. It comes with a 6.4 kW PMS motor that delivers instant torque and achieves 0–40 kmph in just 3.3 seconds. It offers four riding modes — Eco, Ride, Sport, and Warp — with Warp mode being a true thrill for urban riders. The scooter feels zippy, agile, and tuned for dynamic city performance.

The TVS iQube S, powered by a 4.4 kW hub-mounted motor, isn’t far behind. It clocks 0–40 kmph in 4.2 seconds and provides three riding modes — Eco, Power, and Regen. The performance is smooth, especially for city commuting, though it lacks the sportiness of the Ather.

Verdict: Ather 450X clearly outpaces iQube S in terms of acceleration and responsiveness. TVS offers a more relaxed and practical ride.

Battery and Range

The Ather 450X (Gen 3) comes with a 3.7 kWh battery pack, offering a certified range of up to 146 km and a realistic range of about 105–110 km in Ride mode. Fast charging capability adds convenience — it can recharge up to 15 km in 10 minutes at Ather Grid stations.

On the other hand, the TVS iQube S gets a 3.04 kWh battery, offering a real-world range of about 100 km in Eco mode. It doesn’t support fast charging natively but comes with a home charging unit that can fully recharge the battery in approximately 4.5 hours.

Verdict: Ather wins on range and charging infrastructure. TVS offers decent range but lags in fast-charging capability.

Features and Technology

Both scooters are loaded with smart tech. The Ather 450X features a 7-inch touchscreen dashboard, Google Maps navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, music controls, OTA updates, and ride statistics. Its user interface is intuitive and responsive, giving a smartphone-like experience.

The TVS iQube S comes with a 5-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS alerts, and geo-fencing. While not as sleek as Ather’s, it does a good job in delivering essential smart features.

Verdict: Ather takes the lead in tech with a more advanced dashboard and a refined UI.

Comfort and Practicality

When it comes to daily usability, the TVS iQube S has a slight edge. Its broader seat, traditional grab rails, and better under-seat storage (approximately 17 liters) make it more family-friendly. The ride is also more comfortable for longer city commutes.

The Ather 450X is sportier and compact. While it’s fun to ride, the stiff suspension may feel a bit harsh on bad roads. Its boot space is smaller (around 22 liters), but just enough for a half-face helmet and charger.

Verdict: TVS wins in comfort and utility; Ather excels in performance but compromises slightly on practicality.

Price and Value for Money

The Ather 450X is priced around ₹1.40 — ₹1.45 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the city and subsidies. It’s more premium, and Ather also offers subscription plans for features like navigation and data connectivity.

The TVS iQube S is priced around ₹1.25 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a more affordable option. It includes most features without additional subscriptions.

Verdict: TVS offers better value for money. Ather is costlier but justifies the price with superior tech and performance.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Buy?

Choosing between the Ather 450X and TVS iQube S ultimately depends on your needs and preferences.

• Buy the Ather 450X if you’re a performance enthusiast who loves tech, quick acceleration, and sleek design. It’s ideal for young professionals and urban riders who want a futuristic experience.
• Buy the TVS iQube S if your priority is comfort, family use, and value for money. It delivers reliable performance and covers all practical aspects of daily commuting.

Both scooters are excellent choices and represent the future of urban mobility in India. The real winner? The environment — and, of course, you, for making the smart switch to electric.