Ola, the leading player in the electric scooter market, has introduced a new and affordable version of its popular Ola S1 Pro model – the Ola S1 Air. Priced at Rs 1,09,999 (ex-showroom) until August 15, 2023, the scooter aims to offer enhanced features and impressive performance at a competitive price.
In terms of design, the Ola S1 Air maintains the signature style of the S1 series. With sleek bodywork and full LED headlights, the scooter exudes an attractive appeal. One notable change is the use of front telescopic forks instead of the single-sided unit that Ola scooters are known for. The scooter rides on steel wheels fitted with 12-inch tires, and the brakes, both at the front and rear, are drums with combined braking technology. A significant improvement is the addition of a fully flat floorboard, providing riders with a convenient space for adjusting their riding position or storing items like groceries. The speakers and storage options remain unchanged from the Pro model. The instrument panel features a 7-inch touchscreen display, offering a wealth of information and connectivity options. With a comfortable 738mm seat and an overall riding position comparable to conventional scooters, the Ola S1 Air ensures a comfortable and convenient riding experience. The redesigned grab rail, although functional, appears somewhat rudimentary. The scooter also boasts an increased boot space of 34 liters under the seat.
The Ola S1 Air is built on Ola’s Gen 2 platform, resulting in a completely revamped chassis. The front suspension has been upgraded to telescopic forks, while the rear features twin shock absorbers. While the functionality is commendable, the visual appeal of the new swingarm may not be as appealing. The Ola S1 Air is equipped with a hub-mounted motor that delivers a peak output of 4.5kW. Ola claims a top speed of 90kmph for the scooter, with a 0 to 60kmph acceleration achievable in just 5.7 seconds.
Powering the Ola S1 Air is a redesigned 2.98kWh battery, offering an ARAI claimed range of 125km. Ola also provides specific range estimates for different modes: 100km in Normal mode, 87km in Sport mode, and 125km in Eco mode. Notably, the Hyper mode, found in the Pro model, is absent in the S1 Air. Charging the battery to full capacity takes approximately 5 hours, with an 80% charge achievable in 3.84 hours.
When it comes to the riding experience, the Ola S1 Air feels familiar, considering its similarities to the S1 Pro. The scooter boasts a comfortable riding position, further enhanced by the flat floorboard. The scooter accelerates smoothly in Normal mode and easily reaches speeds of 70kmph. Switching to Sport mode provides a more exciting acceleration experience, truly showcasing the capabilities of an electric scooter. During our test ride, we achieved a top speed of 88kmph, indicating that the Ola S1 Air is indeed capable of reaching its claimed top speed of 90kmph.
The most significant change in the Ola S1 Air is the addition of telescopic suspension and twin rear shock absorbers, resulting in a more enjoyable and comfortable ride. The scooter handles bumps reasonably well, and even with two riders, the rear end remains stable, unlike its predecessor, the S1 Pro. However, the drum brakes may not offer the same stopping power as disc brakes. While the front brakes perform reliably, the rear brakes are prone to wheel lock-up during hard braking from higher speeds.
Overall, the Ola S1 Air surprises with its substantial differences from the older Ola S1 model. The chassis and suspension improvements, as well as enhanced fit and finish, contribute to a more refined scooter. Additionally, the Ola S1 Air offers an attractive price-to-performance ratio. With its impressive features and competitive pricing, the Ola S1 Air has the potential to become a preferred choice among electric scooter enthusiasts.
