Ola Roadster Is Here — Can This EV Bike Redefine Urban Commuting?

Ola Roadster Electric Motorcycle Series: Everything You Need to Know

The Indian EV market has taken a big leap forward — Ola Electric has officially launched its first electric motorcycle series, the Roadster, making bold promises on performance, range, design and tech. If you’re considering making the switch (or just curious), here’s a comprehensive look at what this bike delivers.

The Big Picture

  • Launch & Variants: The Roadster line includes three main models:
    1. Roadster X — entry‑level
    2. Roadster — mid‑tier
    3. Roadster Pro — top‑end performance model
  • Ola is using its new Gen‑3 platform and building battery packs using “BharatCell” 4680‑format cells, developed in India.
  • Price range (ex‑showroom) spans from approximately ₹75,000 to ₹2,49,999 depending on model and battery variant.
  • Bookings are open; delivery timings vary by model. The Roadster X and Roadster begin deliveries earlier (from early 2025), while the Pro model is scheduled for a later rollout

Image Credit: Aaj Tak

Variant‑by‑Variant Specs & Features

Here’s a comparison of what the three variants offer in terms of battery, speed, range, features etc.

ModelBattery OptionsClaimed Range*Performance (0‑40 / Top Speed)Key Features
Roadster X2.5 kWh, 3.5 kWh, 4.5 kWh Up to ~200 km in top variant (4.5 kWh) 0‑40 km/h in ~2.8s; Top speed ~124 km/h 4.3‑inch display, LED lighting, “MoveOS 5” software, riding modes (Sports, Normal, Eco), CBS / disc brakes, brake‑by‑wire etc.
Roadster3.5 kWh, 4.5 kWh, 6 kWh ~248 km in top 6 kWh trim ~0‑40 km/h in ~2.0s; Top speed ~126 km/h 6.8‑inch TFT screen, more advanced features (AI assistant “Krutrim”, cruise control, proximity unlock, etc.), dual disc brakes with cornering ABS & brake‑by‑wire tech.
Roadster Pro8 kWh, 16 kWh IDC‑certified ~579 km for 16 kWh variant Extremely quick: 0‑40 km/h in ~1.2s; top speed ~194 km/h (16 kWh) Premium hardware: 10‑inch TFT display, more ride modes, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), more torque, superior performance.
Tech, Design & Unique Selling Points
  • Batteries & Cells: Bharat 4680‑format cells, made in India. Ola claims strong integration of battery tech, modular battery packs.
  • Software & UI: MoveOS 5 powers the system. Features include over‑the‑air (OTA) updates, smart AI assistant (Krutrim), navigation (Ola Maps), riding modes, regen braking, etc.
  • Safety / Braking / Suspension: Disc brakes, single or dual depending on model; brake‑by‑wire technology; cornering ABS especially in mid and Pro variants; sturdy frame designs.
  • Range vs Price Tradeoffs: The lower battery trims cost significantly less and offer lower ranges & performance; upgrading to higher battery models gives you better speed, range and features but at a higher cost.
Pricing & Value Proposition
  • Ex‑Showroom Prices:
    • Roadster X variants: ~₹74,999 → ~₹99,999 depending on battery size.
    • Roadster (mid‑variant): ~₹1,04,999 → ~₹1,39,999 depending on battery.
    • Roadster Pro: ~₹1,99,999 for 8 kWh; ~₹2,49,999 for 16 kWh.
  • On‑Road Costs will be higher depending on state taxes, subsidies, registration etc. Always check price in your city.
  • Cost of Ownership: Electric motorcycles promise lower running & maintenance costs versus petrol bikes (no fuel cost, fewer moving parts). But battery health, charging infrastructure, resale value are important considerations.

Image Credit: BikeDekho

Final Thoughts

Ola’s Roadster is a bold step: it signals serious intent in the electric motorcycle segment, not just scooters. The range of options—from affordable entry trims to high performance Pro variants—gives buyers flexibility. If Ola delivers on build quality, charging support and service, these bikes could be game‑changers.

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