TVS iQube 2022 VS Ather 450X: Detailed Comparison

The TVS iQube, an electric scooter from a renowned manufacturer that competes with the Ather 450X from Ather Energy, an EV start-up that has made waves since its founding in 2013. Here's our view on this interesting electric vehicle (EV) comparison between the two.

The TVS iQube is the first electric vehicle from a company that has a very long history and a legacy to follow, TVS Motor Company. This is a company well-known for its well-engineered two-wheelers. And we are going to compare the TVS iQube with the Ather 450X, which is the flagship product of Ather Energy, an electric vehicle start-up that has gone on to set new benchmarks in the EV category, and is known for being a reliable and well-engineered product with all of the amenities you'd expect from a modern EV.

As a result, we've set the stage for an entertaining side-by-side comparison of the two. Are both of these scooters comparable in terms of performance, practicality, and comfort? Is there another narrative to be told here? That's exactly what we're about to discover!

Technical Specifications

Design

Since its inception, the TVS iQube has only been offered in one color: white. Both the TVS iQube standard and the TVS iQube are now available in a number of colors, but we still have the white color test scooter. The iQube's base model now comes in "Shining Red" and "Titanium Grey" colors, in addition to white. While the design may appear safe to some, we think the iQube looks great. It not only has a more attractive appearance than the Ather 450X, but it also has a considerably broader appeal. The top-notch build quality and outstanding fit and finish make it a complete package.

The Ather 450X, on the other hand, is unquestionably the hotter, sportier-looking scooter. The 450X has a good, hip aesthetic thanks to the exposed frame under the seat, contemporary design, and crisp lines. The colors available are very attractive, particularly the mint green color, which is amazing.

Yes! We're not attempting to be politically correct here; the design is subjective. Many prefer the design of the iQube, but I, personally prefer the 450X.

Technology and Features

The TVS iQube receives a slew of new features with the upgrade, but none of them are available on the base variant we tested. The TVS has a 5-inch color TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, and capabilities such as geo-fencing and turn-by-turn navigation. A USB charger is included, as well as complete LED lighting and two riding modes: Eco and Power. On the iQube, TVS additionally includes a low-speed reverse assist option.

When it comes to features, the Ather 450X has a clear advantage. It has SIM-based connectivity, which means it has a wide range of connectivity options. A 7-inch full-color TFT touchscreen is also included as standard. There's also built-in navigation and complete LED lighting, as well as a reverse assist feature and over-the-air upgrades. The Ather 450X comes with a tyre pressure monitoring system as an option.

Performance and Dynamics

On the go, the Ather obviously outperforms the others. It offers more riding modes than many petrol-powered scooters, including eco, ride, sport, and a performance-oriented warp mode, which may outperform many petrol-powered scooters in terms of raw initial acceleration. It's lightning-fast right off the bat. It certainly has enough performance to put the iQube to shame. However, if you're looking for a tranquil and easy outing with your electric scooter, the iQube is the way to go. The iQube is a smooth performer as well, but it prioritizes rider comfort over outright performance.

The Ather 450X is almost a second faster than the iQube in the advertised 0–40 kmph acceleration run. However, if the performance aspect is ignored, the iQube appears to offer a more planted feel, superior ride quality, and soft suspension. The iQube feels much more grounded in corners, giving you a lot more confidence.

The Ather has the dynamics to back up its athletic personality, but show it some lousy roads, or no roads, and it's clear that the stiff ride quality is the crack in its armor. On the other hand, the iQube provides a well-damped and pleasant ride, even on dirt roads. It has a bigger footboard, which allows you to sit more comfortably; a wider seat; and, as previously stated, excellent suspension and ride quality. On many levels, the iQube outperforms the Ather across a wide range of surfaces.

MRF tyres come standard on the Ather, while TVS tyres come standard on the iQube, and it is the TVS tyres that are grippier and offer you greater confidence when taking turns. Both scooters are capable handles, but the iQube will make you feel more at ease if you need to go swiftly around a turn.

The iQube's braking is sharper, better, and more progressive than the 450X's. That isn't to say the brakes on the Ather 450X aren't good; they are, and they have enough of bite, but they are rear biassed. The rear brake tends to lock up a lot more if you use the left lever. The iQube, on the other hand, provides sure-shot stopping power.

Charging

In terms of charging times, the 450X requires less time than the iQube. On the Ather Dot, the 450X takes roughly 3 hours and 35 minutes to charge entirely, while the TVS takes up to 4 hours and 30 minutes with a 650-watt charger. The funny thing is that the charger is not included with the iQube and must be purchased separately for approximately INR 9450.

Ather also offers the Ather Grid network, which may be used to charge your scooter. Ather grid now includes over 350 charging stations in 30 cities across India. The Ather electric scooters are charged at a pace of 1.5 km per minute until they are 80 percent full. TVS, on the other hand, does not have its own charging network, although the iQube is offered at showrooms that have charging stations. Otherwise, charging must be done at home or at a public charger.

Verdict

It performs well, looks good, and has all of the features you require. On top of that, you have access to the Ather Grid network, which means that if you are riding in the city and run out of power, you can simply go to any of the Ather Grid charging points and charge up while sipping a cup of coffee.

The TVS iQube, on the other hand, is an electric scooter that is more practical, comfy, and provides you with peace of mind when on the move. It's a nice-looking scooter that moves smoothly, has a smooth ride, and is the superior of the two in terms of riding quality. The iQube has a plush suspension, good build quality, and is also less expensive, by a significant margin. So, in terms of the total package, each has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is up to you, the consumer, to decide which design and features you want to go with. Both scooters, in our opinion, are fantastic buys if you're looking for an electric scooter with a good range and features. The TVS iQube is the more practical of the two, with superior range and comfort, whilst the Ather 450X delivers explosive performance and a slew of extras for the techie.