OLA S1 X: In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric mobility in India, the Ola S1 X has emerged as a game-changer, offering an impressive blend of affordability, performance, and cutting-edge technology. As the most accessible entry point into Ola Electric’s ecosystem, the S1 X represents the company’s commitment to democratizing electric transportation.
while maintaining high standards of innovation and sustainability. With the recent launch of the Generation 3 models, Ola has raised the bar even higher, incorporating significant technological advancements that position the S1 X as a formidable competitor in the electric scooter market.
A New Era: The Generation 3 S1 X
January 2025 marked a significant milestone for Ola Electric with the introduction of the Generation 3 S1 X models. The Gen 3 update represents a substantial leap forward in Ola’s electric scooter technology, offering enhanced performance, extended range, and advanced features that cater to the evolving needs of modern riders.
The S1 X Gen 3 range is available in multiple variants with different battery capacities: 2 kWh, 3 kWh, and 4 kWh, with prices starting from Rs. 74,999 and going up to Rs. 1.10 lakh for the Plus 4 kWh variant. This tiered approach allows consumers to choose a model that best suits their commuting needs and budget constraints.
One of the most significant changes in the Gen 3 models is the replacement of the hub motor with a mid-drive motor featuring an integrated Motor Control Unit (MCU). This engineering choice has resulted in a more reliable and efficient powertrain, with Ola claiming the new motor to be five times more dependable than conventional options. The company has also transitioned from belt drives to chain drives, which contribute to the scooter’s impressive acceleration capabilities.
OLA S1 X Performance That Impresses
The Ola S1 X Gen 3 doesn’t compromise on performance despite its affordable positioning. The 4 kWh variant delivers a peak power of 9.5 PS and boasts a top speed of 123 kmph, making it one of the most powerful electric scooters in its price segment. For riders seeking even more punch, the S1 X+ variant offers a formidable 14.95 PS of peak power and can accelerate from 0 to 40 km/h in just 2.7 seconds.
What truly sets the S1 X apart from its competitors is its exceptional range. The 2 kWh variant offers a claimed range of 108 km, while the 3 kWh and 4 kWh variants push the boundaries with 176 km and an impressive 242 km of range respectively (as per IDC standards). This extended range addresses one of the primary concerns of electric vehicle adoption – range anxiety – making the S1 X a practical choice for daily commutes and occasional longer journeys.
Charging times vary based on the battery capacity, with the scooters taking approximately 5-6 hours to charge fully using a standard charger. However, Ola has been expanding its Hypercharger network, which can significantly reduce charging times for users who need a quick top-up while on the go.
OLA S1 X Design and Build Quality
The S1 X maintains a minimalist yet modern design philosophy that aligns with Ola’s broader aesthetic vision. The scooter features clean lines, a sleek profile, and a distinctive front fascia that makes it instantly recognizable on the road. The Gen 3 model carries forward this design language with minor refinements, including a sportier grab handle for passengers and improved seat ergonomics for enhanced comfort during longer rides.
Available in six colors – Silver, Jet Black, Midnight Blue, Passion Red, Porcelain White, and Stellar Blue – the S1 X allows riders to express their personal style. The build quality, while not premium, is solid for its price point, with the scooter striking a good balance between durability and cost-effectiveness.
One notable feature is the spacious underseat storage of 34 liters, which provides ample room for helmets, groceries, and other everyday items. This practical design consideration enhances the scooter’s utility as a daily commuter, addressing a key need for urban riders.
Technological Innovation: MoveOS 5
At the heart of the Ola S1 X’s technological prowess is MoveOS 5, the latest iteration of Ola’s proprietary operating system. Launched in early 2025, MoveOS 5 brings a host of new features that enhance both the functionality and user experience of the S1 X.
The S1 X Gen 3 comes equipped with a 4.3-inch LCD display that serves as the command center for the scooter’s smart features. Through this interface, riders can access a range of functions powered by MoveOS 5, including:
Smart Park: Provides forward and rear park assist, making it easier to navigate tight parking spaces
Road Trip Mode: Optimizes power delivery and provides navigation assistance for longer journeys
SOS Alert: Allows riders to quickly contact emergency services or designated contacts in case of accidents
Bharat Mood: A special UI theme that celebrates Indian aesthetics and culture
Smartwatch App: Enables riders to monitor their scooter’s status and control certain functions directly from their wearable device
DIY Mode: Gives riders the ability to customize various aspects of their scooter’s performance, including power delivery, regenerative braking intensity, and throttle sensitivity
The introduction of brake-by-wire technology in the Gen 3 models represents another significant advancement. This system electronically applies the brakes, resulting in longer brake pad life and a reported 15% improvement in range. All S1 X variants also come with single-channel ABS for enhanced safety during emergency braking situations.
Practical Benefits: The Economic Case
Beyond its technical specifications and features, the Ola S1 X makes a compelling economic case for electric mobility. Compared to conventional petrol scooters, the S1 X offers substantial savings in terms of both running costs and maintenance expenses.
As per Ola’s calculations, S1 X owners can save approximately Rs. 38,000 per year compared to petrol scooter owners, based on current electricity and fuel prices. With electricity costs significantly lower than petrol prices, the per-kilometer running cost of the S1 X is a fraction of what internal combustion engine (ICE) scooters demand.
Maintenance costs are also considerably lower due to the reduced number of moving parts in an electric powertrain. The absence of regular oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks associated with ICE vehicles translates to fewer workshop visits and lower lifetime ownership costs.
To further enhance peace of mind, Ola offers a standard warranty of 3 years or 40,000 kilometers for both the scooter and the battery. Additionally, customers have the option to extend the battery warranty up to 8 years or 125,000 kilometers for a nominal fee of Rs. 14,999, addressing potential concerns about battery longevity and replacement costs.
Real-World Experience: User Feedback
While the S1 X has garnered positive attention for its specifications and features, user feedback provides valuable insights into its real-world performance. Current owners generally praise the scooter for its smooth acceleration, quiet operation, and cost-effective daily commuting capabilities.
Many users report that the actual range, while impressive, tends to be somewhat lower than the claimed figures, especially when riding in normal or sport modes rather than the more conservative eco mode. This is a common phenomenon across electric vehicles, where real-world conditions such as riding style, traffic patterns, and terrain can impact energy consumption.
Some early adopters have noted minor software glitches and occasional quality control issues, but Ola has been responsive in addressing these concerns through over-the-air updates and service interventions. The company has also been rapidly expanding its service network, with over 4,000 service centers nationwide as of early 2025, up from 800 in November 2024.
Environmental Impact: A Greener Alternative
Beyond individual benefits, the Ola S1 X contributes to broader environmental goals by offering a zero-emission alternative to conventional scooters. With no tailpipe emissions, the S1 X helps reduce local air pollution, particularly in congested urban areas where air quality concerns are most acute.
Ola Electric has positioned itself as a leader in India’s clean mobility revolution, with a strong focus on local manufacturing and sustainable practices. The company’s Futurefactory, one of the world’s largest facilities dedicated to electric two-wheelers, employs advanced manufacturing techniques to reduce environmental impact throughout the production process.
The electric two-wheeler market in India has become increasingly competitive, with established automotive manufacturers and startups alike vying for market share. The O
The Competition Landscape
la S1 X faces competition from models like the TVS iQube, Ather 450S, and Bajaj Chetak, among others.
What sets the S1 X apart in this crowded field is its combination of accessible pricing, robust performance, and feature-rich technology package. While premium competitors may offer more refined build quality or superior materials, the S1 X delivers exceptional value proposition that makes electric mobility accessible to a broader segment of consumers.
Ola Electric has also been aggressive in its market approach, frequently offering discounts, exchange bonuses, and special promotions to drive adoption. This strategy, coupled with the company’s continuous product improvements, has helped Ola secure a leading position in India’s electric two-wheeler sales charts.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Ola and Electric Mobility
The S1 X represents just one component of Ola Electric’s ambitious vision for the future of transportation. The company has hinted at plans to expand its product lineup further, with potential entries into different vehicle segments including performance motorcycles and mass-market options.
Recent reports suggest that Ola is working on an electric touring motorcycle, expected to launch in the second quarter of the 2026 financial year. This expansion into the motorcycle segment would position Ola as a comprehensive electric two-wheeler manufacturer, catering to diverse consumer preferences and use cases.
On the technology front, Ola continues to invest in battery innovation, with a patent filing for a removable battery system that could further enhance the convenience and flexibility of electric vehicle ownership. The company’s focus on vertical integration, from battery cell production to software development, positions it well to lead India’s electric mobility transformation.
Conclusion: A Compelling Package
In summary, the Ola S1 X stands as a testament to the rapid evolution of electric mobility in India. By combining affordable pricing with impressive performance metrics and innovative features, Ola has created a product that addresses many of the practical and psychological barriers to electric vehicle adoption.
While not without its imperfections, the S1 X delivers a compelling overall package that makes a strong case for the transition from petrol to electric power.
As battery technology continues to improve and charging infrastructure expands, products like the S1 X will play a crucial role in accelerating India’s journey toward cleaner, more sustainable transportation.
For urban commuters looking to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on practicality or performance, the Ola S1 X represents not just a mode of transport but a gateway to the future of mobility – one that is electric, intelligent, and increasingly accessible.