Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) Review: The Smart Electric Scooter for the Modern Urban Rider
The Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) emerges as a compelling choice in the rapidly evolving Indian electric scooter market. Positioned as a smart electric scooter, it caters to practical riders who prioritize a blend of robust performance, extended range, and cutting-edge technology. With its substantial battery capacity, impressive top speed, and a host of modern features, the Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) is designed to be a reliable and stylish daily companion for urban commuters and beyond. Priced at an ex-showroom ₹ 1,12,999/-*, the Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) aims to deliver significant value. It promises an IDC (Indian Driving Cycle) range of 242 km, a peak speed of 125 km/h, and rapid acceleration, setting it apart from many other electric scooters in its segment. Its focus on smart connectivity, convenient features, and a sleek design makes it a strong contender for those looking to embrace electric mobility with confidence.
Key Features: Power, Range, and Smart Connectivity in the Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh)
The Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) is packed with features designed to offer a superior electric vehicle experience.
Powerful Motor and Impressive Performance:
At its core, the S1 Pro (4 kWh) is powered by a Mid Drive IPM motor with a nominal power of 5.5 kW and a peak power of 11 kW. This translates to a blistering 0-40 km/h acceleration in just 2.7 seconds and a top speed of 125 km/h, ensuring brisk and responsive rides in city traffic and on open roads.
Extended IDC Range of 242 km:
Equipped with a large 4 kWh battery capacity, the scooter boasts an IDC range of 242 km. While real-world range will vary based on riding style, terrain, and load (often reported around 160-200 km), this claimed range provides significant peace of mind for daily commutes and even longer journeys.
Multiple Drive Modes for Versatility:
Riders can choose from Eco, Normal, Sports, and Hyper drive modes to optimize performance and range according to their needs. Hyper mode provides maximum acceleration, while Eco mode maximizes range.
Advanced Braking System with CBS:
For enhanced safety, the Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) features dual disc brakes (front and rear) paired with a Combined Braking System (CBS). CBS distributes braking force to both wheels, improving stability and reducing stopping distances.
7-inch Touchscreen Display with Smart Connectivity:
A central highlight is the intuitive 7-inch touchscreen display, which serves as the control hub. It integrates GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity for music and calls, and allows for OTA (Over-The-Air) updates, ensuring the scooter’s software remains up-to-date with new features and improvements.
Convenient Smart Features:
The scooter includes a digital key for keyless operation, remote boot unlock, cruise control for relaxed riding, reverse mode for easy maneuvering in tight spaces, and predictive maintenance alerts through the Ola Electric App. Vacation Mode helps preserve battery charge during long periods of inactivity.
Robust Build and Comfortable Dimensions:
With a kerb weight of 113 kg and a ground clearance of 160 mm, the S1 Pro (4 kWh) offers a stable and comfortable ride. The 34 L boot space is generous for daily essentials, and the 791 mm seat height is suitable for a wide range of riders.
Full Specifications Table: Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh)
Pricing
- Ex-Showroom Price (₹): ₹1,12,999* (Prices may vary by region)
Power & Performance
- Battery Capacity: 4 kWh
- Top Speed: 125 km/h
- Acceleration (0–40 km/h): 2.7 sec
- Acceleration (0–60 km/h): 4.3 sec
- Motor Power (Nominal/Peak): 5.5 kW / 11 kW
- Drive Modes: Hyper, Sports, Normal, Eco
- Gradeability: 17°
- Motor Type: Mid Drive IPM
Charging
- Home Charging (0–80%): Approx. 4 hrs 50 mins
- Charger: 750W Portable Charger
Dimensions & Build
- Kerb Weight: 113 kg
- Ground Clearance: 160 mm
- Seat Height: 791 mm
- Boot Space: 34 L
- Frame Type: Tubular & Sheet Metal
- Suspension (Front): Twin Telescopic
- Suspension (Rear): Mono Shock
Brakes, Wheels & Tyres
- Front Brake: Disc
- Rear Brake: Disc
- ABS/CBS: CBS (Combined Braking System)
- Wheel Type: Alloy
- Front Tyre: 90/90 – R12
- Rear Tyre: 90/90 – R12
Smart Features & Tech
- Display: 7-inch Touchscreen
- Navigation: Yes (GPS)
- Bluetooth, Music: Supported
- Cruise Control: Yes
- Remote Boot Unlock: Yes
- Key Type: Digital Key (Keyless)
- GPS, OTA, Predictive Maintenance: Yes
- Ola Electric App Control: Yes
- Vacation Mode, Reverse Mode: Supported
The Riding Experience: Pros and Cons for the Urban Commuter
Pros: Why the Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) Shines
- Excellent Real-World Range: With an IDC range of 242 km, the 4 kWh battery provides ample range for most daily commutes and even longer weekend rides, reducing range anxiety significantly. Real-world users often report around 160-200 km, which is still very competitive.
- Strong Performance and Acceleration: The 11 kW peak power motor delivers brisk acceleration (0-40 km/h in 2.7s) and a top speed of 125 km/h, making it highly capable for both city traffic and occasional highway use.
- Feature-Rich Touchscreen and App Control: The 7-inch touchscreen, combined with the Ola Electric App, offers a modern and connected riding experience, including navigation, music control, OTA updates, and various smart features.
- Dual Disc Brakes with CBS: The presence of disc brakes on both front and rear wheels, coupled with Combined Braking System, ensures effective and safe stopping power.
- Versatile Drive Modes: The four distinct drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sports, Hyper) allow riders to tailor the scooter’s performance to their immediate needs, optimizing either range or speed.
- Convenient Smart Features: Digital key, cruise control, reverse mode, remote boot unlock, and vacation mode add to the overall convenience and premium feel of the scooter.
- Good Ground Clearance: At 160 mm, the ground clearance is sufficient to handle most Indian road conditions, including speed breakers and uneven surfaces.
Cons: Points for Consideration
- Lacks ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): While it features CBS, the absence of a full ABS system is a noticeable omission, especially considering its high top speed and the safety standards offered by some competitors.
- Tyres are Narrower than Pro+ Models: The 90/90-R12 tyres on both front and rear are narrower compared to some higher-end performance scooters (e.g., Ola S1 Pro+ with 110/70-R12), which might slightly affect grip and stability at very high speeds or aggressive cornering, though generally adequate for its performance.
- Charging Time (0-80% in 4 hrs 50 mins): While reasonable for its battery capacity, it’s not “fast charging” by some standards, and might require planning for longer trips. The lack of an extensive public fast-charging infrastructure specific to Ola could be a concern for some, though Ola is expanding its Hypercharger network.
- Customer Service and Software Glitches (Historical): While Ola has made significant improvements, earlier generations faced customer service issues and software glitches. Prospective buyers should check recent reviews for current status of these aspects. Some user reviews still mention issues with chain, range accuracy, and service center cooperation.
- Weight: At 113 kg, it’s on the heavier side for a scooter, which might make it slightly challenging to move manually for some riders.
- Braking Performance (User Feedback): Some user reviews indicate that while the brakes are sharp, the front wheel can skid on hard braking even with CBS, suggesting that full ABS would be a beneficial addition for improved safety.
Who Is This Scooter For? Tailored Recommendations
The Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) is an excellent choice for:
- Urban and Suburban Commuters: Who need a high-performance scooter for daily commutes and occasional longer rides.
- Tech-Savvy Riders: Who appreciate smart features, a large touchscreen, and app connectivity for an enhanced riding experience.
- Performance Enthusiasts: Seeking brisk acceleration and a high top speed in an electric scooter.
- Buyers Prioritizing Range: The 242 km IDC range (with good real-world performance) significantly reduces range anxiety.
- Those Looking for Value in the Premium Segment: Offering a strong feature set and performance at a competitive price point.
Who Might Consider Other Options?
You might consider other options if:
- You Require ABS: For maximum braking safety, especially at high speeds, you might prefer scooters with a full ABS system.
- You Prioritize Lightweight Scooters: At 113 kg, it might be too heavy for some users who need to frequently maneuver it manually.
- You Are Concerned About Past Customer Service/Software Issues: Although Ola has improved, some buyers might prefer brands with a longer track record of consistent service.
- You Need Faster Charging: If quick top-ups are a critical daily requirement and you don’t have access to Ola’s Hypercharger network, the home charging time might be a consideration.
Competitive Edge: What Sets It Apart
The Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) distinguishes itself in the electric scooter segment with several key advantages:
- Segment-Leading Performance and Range: It offers one of the best combinations of top speed and IDC range in its price bracket, making it highly versatile.
- Advanced Smart Features: The comprehensive touchscreen interface and app integration provide a truly modern and connected riding experience that many competitors lack.
- Value for Money: Despite its premium features and performance, its ex-showroom price makes it a strong value proposition compared to similarly specced rivals.
- Continuous Improvement via OTA Updates: Ola’s commitment to software updates means the scooter can gain new features and improvements over time, enhancing its longevity and user experience.
Final Verdict: The Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) – Smart, Powerful, and Value-Driven
The Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) stands out as a strong and compelling contender in the premium electric scooter segment in India. It successfully bridges the gap between performance and practicality, offering a robust 11 kW peak power motor and a generous 4 kWh battery that translates to an impressive IDC range of 242 km and a thrilling 125 km/h top speed. Its comprehensive suite of smart features, including the intuitive 7-inch touchscreen display, app integration, digital key, cruise control, and multiple ride modes, elevates the riding experience to a new level of convenience and connectivity. While the absence of a full ABS system and slightly narrower tyres compared to some rivals are minor drawbacks, and historical concerns about customer service and software glitches persist for some users, the overall package of the S1 Pro (4 kWh) offers tremendous value for its price point. For urban riders seeking a feature-rich, high-performance, and technologically advanced electric scooter that delivers both excitement and practicality for daily commutes and occasional longer rides, the Ola S1 Pro (4 kWh) is undoubtedly a highly recommended and compelling choice. It embodies the future of urban mobility with style and substance.
Overall Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 (Considering Pros, Cons & Value)