The Indian automobile industry is rapidly transforming, with electric vehicles (EVs) emerging as the future of mobility. Among the many electric two-wheeler manufacturers, Ampere Vehicles has built a reputation for providing affordable and eco-friendly mobility solutions for Indian riders. One of its most popular models is the Ampere Reo, a sleek, lightweight, and efficient electric scooter designed for daily commuting needs.
The Ampere Reo has gained significant attention from urban and semi-urban riders who want a practical, cost-effective, and eco-conscious alternative to petrol scooters. In this detailed article, we will dive deep into the features, performance, design, specifications, pros and cons, and overall value proposition of the Ampere Reo.
Table of Contents
The Rise of Ampere Electric Vehicles
Before we get into the details of the Ampere Reo, it’s important to understand the brand behind it. Ampere Vehicles is a subsidiary of Greaves Cotton Limited, a company with over 160 years of engineering experience. Since its inception in 2008, Ampere has focused on developing affordable, reliable, and green mobility solutions for Indian consumers.
With models like the Magnus, Zeal, and Reo, Ampere has positioned itself as a strong competitor in the growing Indian EV market. The Reo, in particular, caters to students, young professionals, and budget-conscious riders who need an easy-to-ride and economical scooter.
Design and Styling of the Ampere Reo
The Reo stands out for its stylish yet simple design, making it an attractive choice for both young riders and adults. It comes in two variants: Reo LA (Lead Acid) and Ampere Reo Li (Lithium-ion).
Key Design Highlights:
- Compact body: Perfect for congested city roads and narrow lanes.
- Lightweight frame: Easy for beginners, especially college students or first-time scooter riders.
- Vibrant colors: Available in attractive shades like red, orange, green, yellow, and blue.
- Modern touches: Stylish body graphics and aerodynamic design enhance its youthful appeal.
- Comfortable seating: Wide and cushioned seat suitable for short city rides.
The scooter’s minimalistic yet trendy design ensures it grabs attention without being too flashy.
Ampere Reo Variante
As mentioned earlier, the Reo is offered in two battery variants:
- Ampere Reo LA (Lead Acid Battery)
- More affordable option.
- Slightly heavier due to lead-acid battery.
- Takes longer to charge.
- Ampere Reo Li (Lithium-ion Battery)
- Higher upfront cost but lighter in weight.
- Faster charging time.
- Longer battery lifespan and better efficiency.
Both variants are designed to meet different rider preferences and budgets.
Performance and Riding Experience
When it comes to performance, the Reo is not about speed but about practicality and efficiency. It’s built to handle daily city commutes with ease.
Motor and Power:
- The Reo is powered by a 250W BLDC hub motor, offering smooth and noiseless performance.
- Since it is a low-speed scooter, it does not require a license or registration, making it extremely convenient for teenagers and first-time riders.
Speed:
- Top speed is around 25 km/h, which is sufficient for short-distance city travel.
Range:
- Reo LA: Offers a range of 45–50 km per charge.
- Reo Li: Provides a longer range of 55–60 km per charge.
Charging Time:
- Lead Acid: 7–8 hours for a full charge.
- Lithium-ion: 5–6 hours for a full charge.
Ride Comfort:
- Lightweight body makes it easy to maneuver.
- Suitable for congested city traffic and narrow streets.
- Comfortable suspension system ensures a smooth ride on Indian roads.
While it may not match the performance of premium EVs, the Reo is perfectly suited for short city rides, school, college, or office commutes.
Technical Specifications of Ampere Reo
Here is a breakdown of the key technical details:
| Feature | Ampere Reo LA | Ampere Reo Li |
|---|---|---|
| Motor | 250W BLDC Hub Motor | 250W BLDC Hub Motor |
| Top Speed | 25 km/h | 25 km/h |
| Battery | Lead Acid | Lithium-ion |
| Range per Charge | 45–50 km | 55–60 km |
| Charging Time | 7–8 hours | 5–6 hours |
| Brakes | Drum (Front & Rear) | Drum (Front & Rear) |
| Suspension | Telescopic front, Coil spring rear | Telescopic front, Coil spring rear |
| Tyres | Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Kerb Weight | 88 kg | 70 kg |
Features of Ampere Reo
The Ampere Reo is a budget-friendly scooter, so it doesn’t pack high-end features like some premium EVs. However, it offers all the essential features for daily riding.
Notable Features:
- No license or registration required (for low-speed model).
- Digital instrument cluster for speed, battery status, and range.
- Telescopic suspension ensures smoother rides.
- Comfortable seating for two riders.
- Alloy wheels for a stylish look.
- Tubeless tyres for added safety.
- Portable battery option in the Li variant for easy charging at home or office.
Pricing of Ampere Reo
One of the biggest advantages of the Ampere Reo is its affordability. It is priced in the entry-level EV segment, making it accessible for students, young professionals, and families looking for a second scooter.
- Ampere Reo LA: Around ₹45,000 – ₹48,000 (ex-showroom).
- Ampere Reo Li: Around ₹55,000 – ₹60,000 (ex-showroom).
Prices may vary depending on state subsidies and dealer location.
Pros and Cons of Ampere Reo
Pros:
Affordable and budget-friendly.
No license or registration required.
Lightweight and easy to handle.
Eco-friendly with zero emissions.
Portable battery option (Li variant).
Cons:
Low top speed, not suitable for highways.
Limited range compared to premium EVs.
Basic features, lacks advanced tech.
Longer charging time for lead-acid variant.
Who Should Buy the Ampere Reo?
The Ampere Reo is ideal for:
- Students who need a cost-effective scooter for commuting to school or college.
- Urban commuters looking for a second scooter for short distances.
- First-time riders who don’t want the hassle of license and registration.
- Eco-conscious buyers who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
It is not suitable for long-distance commuters or riders who want high-speed performance.
Competition of Ampere Reo
In the entry-level electric scooter market, the Ampere Reo faces competition from:
- Hero Electric Flash
- Okinawa R30
- Detel Easy Plus
- Evolet Pony
Despite competition, the Ampere Reo stands out for its brand reliability, affordability, and ease of use.
Future of Affordable EVs in India
With rising fuel costs and government support for electric mobility, affordable EVs like the Ampere Reo will play a crucial role in the Indian two-wheeler market. Ampere’s focus on budget-friendly scooters ensures that more people can transition to electric mobility without financial strain.
The demand for low-speed, license-free scooters is expected to increase in smaller towns and cities, where affordability and convenience are the top priorities.
Final Verdict
The Ampere Reo is a smart and budget-friendly choice for anyone looking for an entry-level electric scooter. While it may not boast advanced features or high speed, it offers affordability, practicality, and eco-friendliness, making it an excellent option for daily commuting needs.
If you’re a student, young professional, or someone who needs a convenient scooter for short city rides, the Ampere Reo is definitely worth considering.