The daily office commute in India is a battle against traffic, rising fuel prices, and pollution. It’s no wonder that a growing number of urban professionals are switching to a smarter, cleaner, and more economical alternative: the electric scooter. Offering a silent, zippy ride with minimal running costs, an e-scooter can transform your daily travel from a chore into a breeze.
But with a market flooded with options, which one is right for you? If your budget is capped at Rs.1 lakh, you're in luck. This price point is the sweet spot for some of the most practical and reliable electric scooters available today.
Here’s our roundup of the best electric scooters for your office commute, all under the Rs.1 lakh mark.
1. Ola S1 X+
The Tech-Loaded Value King
Ola Electric disrupted the market with its feature-packed scooters, and the S1 X+ brings that experience to a more accessible price point. It’s stylish, quick, and loaded with smart features that make it a compelling choice for the tech-savvy commuter.
Why it's great for commutes: The Ola S1 X+ offers a fantastic combination of range and performance. Its top speed is more than enough for city highways, and its real-world range ensures you won’t have range anxiety even with a longer commute. The large boot space is a practical bonus for carrying your laptop bag and tiffin.
Best for: The daily commuter who wants modern tech, strong performance, and doesn't mind a completely digital interface.
2. TVS iQube
The Reliable Family All-Rounder
Coming from a legacy brand like TVS, the iQube is all about reliability, comfort, and build quality. It doesn’t scream for attention with flashy design, but it delivers a polished and dependable riding experience that’s hard to beat for day-to-day use.
Why it's great for commutes: The iQube’s silent motor, comfortable suspension, and family-friendly design make it perfect for navigating city traffic. While its range is lower than some rivals, it’s more than sufficient for most office round trips (e.g., 15-25 km one way). The trust and wide service network of TVS are major advantages.
Best for: Professionals who prioritize comfort, build quality, and brand reliability over outright performance or cutting-edge features.
3. Ather 450S
The Performance Enthusiast’s Entry Point
Ather has always been the benchmark for performance and handling in the e-scooter space. The 450S is their entry-level offering, retaining the sporty DNA of its elder sibling, the 450X, while fitting into a more attractive budget.
Why it's great for commutes: If your commute involves open stretches where you can enjoy a spirited ride, the Ather 450S is for you. Its sharp handling and instant acceleration make it incredibly fun to ride. The new DeepView™ Display is clear and intuitive, providing all necessary information without the complexity of a full-touch screen.
Best for: The rider who craves an engaging and performance-oriented ride and appreciates premium engineering.
4. Bajaj Chetak Urbane
The Retro-Modern Style Icon
The Bajaj Chetak is an icon, and its electric avatar carries that legacy forward with a beautiful retro-modern design and impeccable build quality. The Chetak Urbane variant is the more affordable version that brings this premium experience under the Rs.1 lakh barrier.
Why it's great for commutes: The Chetak is a statement piece. Its all-metal body gives it a sturdy, planted feel on the road. While its top speed is modest, it's perfect for dense city traffic. It’s a scooter that feels premium and is built to last, backed by Bajaj's extensive service network.
Best for: The commuter who values style, build quality, and a touch of nostalgia in a modern package.
Quick Comparison Table
|
Model |
Approx. Price (Ex-Showroom) |
Real-World Range (Approx.) |
Top Speed |
Best For |
|
Ola S1 X+ |
Rs.89,999 |
100 km |
90 km/h |
Tech & Performance |
|
TVS iQube (2.2 kWh) |
Rs.94,999 |
65 km |
75 km/h |
Reliability & Comfort |
|
Ather 450S |
Rs.97,500 |
90 km |
90 km/h |
Riding Dynamics |
|
Bajaj Chetak Urbane |
Rs.1 Lakh |
85 km |
63 km/h |
Style & Build Quality |
Factors to Consider Before Buying
Conclusion
Switching to an electric scooter for your daily commute is one of the smartest financial and environmental decisions you can make. The models listed above prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a high-quality, reliable, and enjoyable ride.
Before you make a final decision, take a test ride of your top choices. See how they feel in traffic and which one best suits your personal style and comfort.