Zipping into orbit

India’s scooter boom has anew face: TVS Orbiter, a sleek, feature-packed EV built for urbanites

- RONNIE KURIAKOSE

HERE is a clear ‘scooterisation’ unfolding on Indian roads. In FY 2024/25, Indians bought a record 6.85 million scooters, a 17% jump from the year before. Much of this surge came from electric scooters, which now make up almost a third of sales.

This is indeed proof the EV shift is no longer tentative. Against this backdrop, TVS Motor has moved with intent. It already sells two EVs: iQube and TVS X. Now, they have a third. Orbiter.

This newest launch is aimed at young, urban professionals who aren't fussed about triple-digit speeds or poring over spec sheets, but who care deeply about convenience.

TVS calls this target segment the urban commuter. Their lives run in short orbits: office, gym, errands, cafe, partner’s place. For this rhythm, the Orbiter is perfect.

TNIE was invited to test ride the vehicle at TVS headquarters in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. Here are our first impressions of the vehicle.

Design and build

The design makes its intentions plain. The vehicle avoids sporty cues, looking instead like consumer tech. Surfaces are clean and flat, marked by vertical and horizontal lines.

There’s a tall stance, upright handlebar, and a long 845 mm seat with ample space for rider and pillion. A 290 mm footboard lets you stretch your legs the moment you get on.