Ola Electric has made its mark in the Indian EV industry with its budget-friendly S1 series of electric scooters. The S1X and S1 Air represent Ola’s premium and affordable offerings in this line-up.
In this head-to-head comparison review, we will compare the Ola S1X and Ola S1 Air across various parameters like price, features, performance, range, and charging to help you choose the best Ola electric scooter for your needs.
Price
The Ola S1 Air has been launched at an introductory price starting from Rs 89,999 making it the most affordable Ola electric scooter. The S1X pricing starts at Rs 1.10 lakh for the 3kWh version, which is around Rs 35,000 more than the S1 Air.
While the S1X costs more, it offers significantly better range and performance making it a premium offering in Ola’s portfolio. Buyers on a tight budget can consider the S1 Air for value.
Range
The Ola S1 Air offers a real-world range of around 85-125 km on a single charge depending on the battery version. The entry-level 2kWh pack offers an 85 km range.
In comparison, the 3kWh battery pack on the S1X delivers a longer real-world range of up to 150 km on a single charge. So for customers who need maximum range from their electric scooter, the S1X is the better pick.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the S1X outpaces the S1 Air. It has a top speed of 95 kmph compared to 85 kmph on the S1 Air. The S1X also accelerates faster from 0 to 40 kmph in just 3.3 seconds.
The S1 Air lacks in performance with a modest 85 kmph top speed and slower acceleration. For enthusiasts who enjoy quick rides, the S1X offers significantly peppier performance.
Features:
Both the S1 Air and S1X come with basic features like a digital instrument cluster with connectivity, cruise control, and reverse mode. However, the S1X gets several additional premium features lacking in the S1 Air.
The S1X offers navigation, music playback, voice assistant, gamification, and guided diagnostic tools. These extra features make the S1X a more high-tech and modern electric scooter compared to the basic S1 Air.
Charging:
Charging time for the S1 Air stands at around 5 hours for a full charge using the standard portable charger. The S1X 3kWh version takes slightly longer at 6.5 hours for a 0 to 100% charge.
Ola offers faster charging with its HyperCharger network where both scooters can juice up from 0 to 50% in around 18 minutes. However, only the S1X buyers will get complimentary access to the Ola HyperCharger network.
comparison table for the Ola S1X vs Ola S1 Air electric scooters:
| Specs | Ola S1X | Ola S1 Air |
| Battery | 2 kWh & 3 kWh | 2 kWh, 3 kWh & 4 kWh |
| Max Range (IDC) | 150 km (3 kWh) | 85-165 km |
| Top Speed | 95 kmph | 85 kmph |
| Motors | 8.5 kW hub motor | 6 kW hub motor |
| Acceleration 0-40 kmph | 3.3 sec | 5.7 sec |
| Charging Time | 6.5 hours (3 kWh) | 5 hours |
| Suspension | Front telescopic fork, rear mono shock | Front telescopic fork, rear mono shock |
| Features | Digital instrument cluster, navigation, music playback, voice assistant | Digital cluster, cruise control, reverse mode |
| Price | Rs 89,999 – Rs 1.10 lakh | Rs 1.20 lakh |
| Brakes | Drum brakes | Drum brakes |
Conclusion
For budget buyers, the Ola S1 Air starts at just Rs 84,999 making it the most affordable option. But the S1X offers better range, speed, features, and charging at a premium. If you have the budget, the S1X is worth the extra cost.