This e-scooter is priced at ₹1.8 lakh, but is it worth it?

The Simple One e-scooter is a refined, fun-to-ride, and practical e-scooter that ticks most of the right boxes

The electric scooter segment in India is heating up, and Simple Energy — an electric vehicle (EV) start-up based in Bengaluru — has stepped up its game with the refreshed Simple One. This mid-life update, which the company calls version 1.5, brings an impressive real-world range of 180-190 km (claimed 248 km) on a single charge, along with a slew of refinements that make it a compelling option for urban commuters. But is it worth ₹1.8 lakh? Let’s dive in.

At the heart of the Simple One lies a dual-battery setup with a combined capacity of 5 kWh. The inbuilt battery holds 3.7 kWh, while a removable 1.7 kWh unit sits neatly under the seat. With a peak power output of 8.5 kW and a top speed of 105 km/h, this e-scooter is no slouch. It sprints from 0-40 km/h in just 2.77 seconds, making it one of the fastest in its category.

The four riding modes — Eco, Ride, Dash and Sonic — offer flexibility, depending on your needs. Sonic mode is particularly exhilarating, delivering instant torque that pushes you back into the seat. Despite its zippy nature, the motor is refined and well-tuned for city riding.

Simple Energy has nailed the aesthetics with an upmarket and bold design. The LED headlight, sleek red wing accents at the front, and large, comfortable seat make for an attractive package. The stylish grab handles and large wheels further add to its premium feel. While the scooter is easy to handle and has great ergonomics (even for taller riders), its weight is noticeable on tight turns.

Storage is another strong point. The under-seat compartment is spacious enough to accommodate a full-face helmet or the charging cable. The Simple One is loaded with features. A large touchscreen display syncs with your mobile phone via bluetooth and provides navigation, battery status, and charging details. The built-in Digi Locker lets you store important documents like your license, RC, and insurance directly on the scooter.

Adding to the convenience factor are forward crawl and reverse modes, which help maneouvering tight spaces. Though the scooter features regenerative braking while coasting, the regen levels are fixed and not adjustable.

Equipped with a telescopic front fork and a rear monoshock suspension, Simple One delivers a comfortable ride, even over rough roads and speed breakers. The combined braking system, featuring hydraulically actuated triple-piston calliper disc brakes at the front and a single-piston disc at the rear, ensures strong stopping power. It is a fun machine to power around town, making city rides enjoyable and engaging.