Good From Far, Far From Good

Electric vehicles have a notorious reputation in our country. The end product is usually quite a gamble and is approached with a pinch of scepticism each time.

- Gavin Rodrigues

Few manufacturers have been able to roll out products requiring little to no spit and polish after their launch. Orxa Energies is a Bangalore-based startup that has joined the fold of EV manufacturers. The Mantis is their first product and one they’ve worked on for the past eight years.

On paper, the Mantis seems rather accomplished and boasts specs that put it on par with some of the best in the EV game. The reality, though, was far from that, and within the limited time I spent with this motorcycle around a go-kart track, many of its flaws shined brighter than its strengths. Before I proceed, I’d like to mention that Orxa clarified that what we were riding was a “prototype” and that it doesn’t entirely reflect the final product that may go on sale in April 2024. If that is the case, they certainly have their work cut out for them.

HOW IS THE MANTIS?