The two-wheeler segment has been dominant in the Indian automotive market for the past years. Now, the automotive sector is witnessing a revolutionary shift in the form of electric two-wheelers (E2Ws), more particularly electric bikes, which the nation has adapted swiftly. This trend characterizes a complete shift to sustainable and efficient modes of transport.
Due to their affordability and accessibility, electric two-wheelers have been an innovation that has helped India’s mobility infrastructure, as the country holds more than 70 percent of the two-wheeler market share. In the past few years, the uptake of e-bikes has altered the mobility and transport system and bikes are currently powered by electricity other than conventional gas-powered bikes.
Several newly developed advanced electric bikes were launched in the Indian automotive market in the year 2024 for leisure traveling and daily commuting. This year brings exciting innovations in design, technology, and performance, making e-bikes more attractive and accessible than ever. In this article, we will take a look at the latest entrants in the electric bike segment, focusing on their features, technology, and how they enhance mobility while contributing to environmental sustainability.
The Rise of Electric Bikes
Electric motorcycles have over the years changed the way people move from one point to another, especially where environmental pollution and the call for greener technology in transport are most felt. Electric bikes are easy to use since they feature the familiar design of classic bikes with innovative technologies.
Key Features of New Electric Bikes
The new models in the year 2024 are equipped with advanced features, providing comfort, convenience, and performance innovations for riders. In case you intend to buy a new electric bike, then it is quite reasonable to predetermine some typical parameters before obtaining your desired bike.
1. Battery Technology
Modern electric bikes come fitted with improved batteries that can go for longer distances and can be charged faster to enable the rider to get back on the bike. Modern lithium-ion batteries are not only more energy-efficient but also in their production and disposal are less dangerous for the environment.
2. Focus on Design and Aesthetics
Initially, electric motorcycles were large, costly forms of transport with short battery charge capacity. That has not been the case now since OEMs are now focusing more on design and therefore designing and manufacturing fashionable electric bikes with lots of features. These e-bikes are now more attractive, lighter, and sturdier than before.
New e-bikes are now not only more comfortable and efficient but also have a more attractive appearance that will suit urban riders. They now come with several design attributes and a classy look suitable for a larger number of users, from casual riders to bike enthusiasts.
3. Performance and Speed
New entrants in the electric bike market now feature impressive speed capabilities, allowing for a swift commute. Some of these electric motorcycles have top speeds of 100mph and above like their gasoline equivalents. These bike models are equipped with new and improved electric drive trains that give much improved torque output, to make the bikes highly responsive while accelerating and give them credentials for urban as well as touring use.
Furthermore, 2024 models are loaded with the feature of regenerative braking systems which improves energy usage and offers better safety performance by providing better frequent stops. The high speeds and general efficiency of electric bikes thus align it as an exciting mode of transport for the current generation commuter in a city.
4. User Experience
New generation electric bikes come equipped with control and display systems that allow them to display crucial details like battery level, distance traveled, speed, and so on. Furthermore, the connectivity options have been refined to provide users with an improved experience of riding their bikes. The new connectivity options incorporate:
- Smartphone integration as a navigation system and tracking the driver’s rides.
- Reduction of cases of theft by use of GPS tracking.
- Freeware update through the airwaves for performance enhancement.
5. Customization Options
Many automotive manufacturers house customizable features, allowing riders to update their e-bikes according to their preferences. These customizable features include adjustable seat heights, handlebar designs, and performance settings. This versatility is particularly appealing to younger audiences.
Top New Electric Bikes in 2024
For a two-wheeler enthusiast, there's always space in the garage for another motorcycle. What is better than owning an electric motorcycle that precisely complements your style and riding preferences? Let's explore the most notable electric bikes launched in 2024 that are setting trends and raising the bar for sustainable transportation.
1. Revolt RV1 Commuter Electric Bike
This year, Revolt Motors, one of the leading motorcycle manufacturers, launched the RV1 commuter electric bike in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 84,990 (ex-showroom). The Revolt RV1 is available in two distinct variants: RV1 and RV1 Plus. It rolls on alloy wheels and features a rear and front disc brake setup.
The Revolt RV1 electric bike features the same design language as the outgoing RV400. However, the commuter electric bike does feature a different front end. It is loaded with features like fast charging provision, a reverse mode, an LCD display, built-in charger storage, a circular LED headlight, and telescopic forks.
The RV1 electric bike comes equipped with two battery pack options: a 3.24kWh and a 2.2kWh. The removable batteries are IP67-rated for water resistance. Both variants of the RV1 house a 2.8 kW electric motor. The charging time for the RV1 and RV1 Plus variants differs since they house different battery capacities.
2. Ola Roadster Electric Bike
The homegrown two-wheeler manufacturer Ola Electric officially launched its first-ever electric bike series, Ola Roadster, in India on August 15, 2024. The Ola Roadster electric bike prices in India start at INR 74,999 (ex-showroom). It is available in three distinct trims: the Roadster, the Roadster Pro, and the Roadster X.
The Roadster X bike is priced at INR 74,999 (ex-showroom), which makes it the most affordable trim in the Ola Roadster portfolio. It draws power from a 2.5 kWh battery set, which enables the electric bike to offer a claimed range of 200 km on a single charge.
The mid-Roadster variant, on the other hand, is priced at INR 1,04,999 (ex-showroom). It comes equipped with three battery setups: 4.5 kWh, 6 kWh, and 3.5 kWh. Lastly, the third Ola Roadster Pro electric variant launched with an electric motor is priced at INR 1,99,999 (ex-showroom). It can be purchased with two battery set options: 16 kWh and 8 kWh.
3. Okaya Ferrato Disruptor Electric Bike
The Okaya Ferrato Disruptor electric bike was launched in the Indian market under its new two-wheeler brand, Ferrato, on May 2, 2024. It is available at an ex-showroom price of INR 1.60 lakh (ex-showroom). The Okaya Ferrato Disruptor comes in three color schemes: Thunder Blue, Inferno Red, and Midnight Shine. It sports sporty design language and has a complete fairing with a dual headlamp set up at the front and sporty graphics on the side.
The bike’s battery is placed vertically inside the fairing. In addition, the Ferrato Disruptor electric bike comes with three drive modes: City, Sports, and Eco. Okaya EV’s Ferrato Disruptor features a range of amenities incorporating an advanced braking system, a remote key, a digital instrument console, 17-inch alloy wheels, all LED lighting, telescopic front forks, rear disc brakes, a rear mono shock absorber, and a split seat.
The Ferrato Disruptor e-bike comes equipped with a 3.97 kWh LFP battery set that offers a claimed range of 129 km. It houses a 6.4 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM). The e-motor churns out a peak power of 6.37 kW and peak torque of 228 Nm.
4. Revolt RV400 BRZ
Revolt Motors launched the 2024 RV400 BRZ electric motorcycle in India at an ex-showroom price of INR 1.34 lakh. The RV400 BRZ electric bike is being offered in five color options: Pacific Blue, Dark Silver, Rebel Red, Cosmic Black, and Lunar Green. It draws power from a 72V, 3.24 KWH lithium-ion battery that can be charged from zero to 75 percent in 3 hours. The battery set can be completely charged in 4.5 hours.
The RV400 BRZ variant comes equipped with advanced features like a side-stand cut-off, a digital instrument cluster, a combi-braking system, and riding modes, namely: Normal, Sport, and Eco. The Normal mode provides a certified range of 100 km, whereas the Eco mode offers 150 km of certified range. On the contrary, the Sport mode receives a claimed range of 80 km.
5. Tork Kratos and Kratos R
Tata Motors launched the Kratos R and Kratos electric bikes in the Indian market on 28th July 2024. The Kratos R electric bike is priced at INR 1.22 lakh (ex-showroom), whereas the Tork Kratos is available at INR 1.07 lakh (ex-showroom). The newly developed Kratos and Kratos R have been completely manufactured in India and have the same split trellis frame.
The Tork Kratos and Kratos R hi-technology features include multi-drive modes with reverse, crash alert, anti-theft, regenerative braking, USB charging, LED headlight and taillight, LCD cluster, utility box at fuel tank, etc.
The electricity to power the Kratos and Kratos R electric motorcycles is sourced from an electric motor that uses axial flux technology to deliver a conversion efficiency of as much as 96 percent.
Why Choose Electric Bikes?
As the automotive world shifts towards electrification, electric bikes are now a hot topic for riders to consider. Here's an in-depth look at why riders are increasingly choosing electric motorcycles:
- Environmental Benefits: The use of electric motorcycles has no direct emissions, which makes them an eco-friendly commuting option for individuals who are willing to embrace change. Moreover, these electric offerings generate low levels of noise pollution and therefore lead to quieter cities.
- Lower Operating Costs: Since electric motorcycles have fewer working parts than a conventional gasoline motorcycle, the likelihood of having frequent maintenance sums up, generally, to less. Additionally, the cost associated with charging is often cheaper than refueling a gasoline-powered vehicle.
- Convenient Charging Options: While many riders can charge the batteries of their electric motorcycles at home, charging stations are also available. In addition, the capability of fast charging makes the ownership of an electric bike even more convenient.
- Enhanced Riding Experience: Electric bikes create almost no noise, which means that they have almost no violent acceleration like traditional ones.
- Safety Features: Other features include the addition of advanced safety features further making riders safer during their daily commute or leisure rides.
Conclusion
The electric motorcycle market in 2024 offers an exciting array of options for electric motorcycle lovers who are interested in powerful and eco-friendly two-wheelers. Intentional daily commuters, weekend warriors, joy riders, and even enthusiasts – there is an electric motorcycle to satisfy all sorts of riders. Due to increased technology development and enhancement in infrastructure, electric motorcycles are not only an option compared to conventional motorcycles but a better option in most cases.
There are many reasons for people to choose an electric motorcycle today: environmental concerns, innovations, and spectacular experiences are all combined in one product. Going forward, everybody can see that electric bikes are not only a vision of what is to come but what is here today, with the performance enthusiasts are looking for in a ride. Through this shift, riders not only get availed of the advantages that come from owning electric motorcycles but also contribute to a greener place and the future that inches closer to sustainability.
