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Ola Electric has launched its new S1Z electric scooter, marking the company’s first electric two-wheeler to use battery cells developed and manufactured entirely in India. The S1Z has been introduced in two variants, with the 3.1 kWh version priced at ₹79,999 and the 5.1 kWh version at ₹99,999, both ex-showroom. The scooter is aimed at India large and price-sensitive two-wheeler customer segment.
The battery cells used in the S1Z are part of Ola Electric’s ‘Bharat Cell’ platform. These 46-series lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells have been developed at the company’s Battery Innovation Centre in Bengaluru and are manufactured at its Gigafactory in Tamil Nadu. LFP batteries are known for better thermal stability and longer cycle life compared with NMC cells. According to the company, the chemistry can also help reduce the risk of thermal runaway.
In terms of range, the 3.1 kWh S1Z claims an IDC range of up to 179 km, while the 5.1 kWh variant claims a range of up to 301 km. Battery costs account for a significant share of an electric vehicle’s overall cost. By developing and manufacturing battery cells in-house, Ola Electric aims to reduce battery costs and pass on the benefits to customers.
The S1Z runs on the company’s MoveOS 5 software platform and comes with features including cruise control, advanced regenerative braking, reverse mode, GPS navigation and over-the-air (OTA) software updates. Its geo, time and mode fencing feature allows users to set restrictions on where, when and in which mode the scooter can be operated.
The scooter also gets an ‘Easy Park’ feature designed to assist with low-speed manoeuvring in tight parking spaces. Users can access ride statistics and energy consumption data through the Ola Electric app. The S1Z is equipped with 12-inch wheels and will be available in four colours- White, Anthracite, Sky Splash Blue and Matcha Green.
According to Ola Electric, deliveries of the 3.1 kWh variant will begin in December 2026, while deliveries of the 5.1 kWh variant will start in March 2027. The launch also marks a shift in Ola Electric’s retail strategy, as the S1Z will be the company’s first model to be sold through dealer-operated stores. Previously, the company largely relied on its company-owned retail network.
Ola Electric plans to use the new dealer network to expand its presence across smaller cities and towns in India. The company is also pursuing greater vertical integration, covering areas from battery cell development and manufacturing to finished electric vehicles. With competition intensifying from players such as TVS, Bajaj and Ather in the electric two-wheeler segment, the S1Z’s pricing, claimed range and locally manufactured battery cells will be key factors in determining its market performance.
