The electric vehicle (EV) revolution in India is gathering pace, and Ampere, a subsidiary of Greaves Electric Mobility, is at the forefront of this transition. Among its several offerings, the Ampere Zeal EX stands out as a budget-friendly electric scooter designed for daily commuting. This scooter aims to offer a blend of affordability, decent performance, and low maintenance, making it an attractive option for the average Indian consumer.
In this detailed review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Ampere Zeal EX — from its features and specifications to its pros, cons, and value for money.
1. Overview of Ampere Zeal EX
Launched to cater to the growing demand for economical EVs in India, the Ampere Zeal EX is a high-speed electric scooter that delivers practical performance with an eco-conscious design. Positioned below premium EV brands like Ather, Ola, or TVS iQube, the Zeal EX competes more directly with players like Hero Electric, Okinawa, and Bounce.
Designed for urban commuting, the Zeal EX aims to provide a hassle-free riding experience while being light on the pocket — both in terms of initial cost and running expenses.
2. Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | BLDC Hub Motor |
| Motor Power | 1.8 kW (Peak) |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Capacity | 2.3 kWh |
| Range (Claimed) | 120 km/charge |
| Top Speed | 50-55 km/h |
| Charging Time | 5-6 hours |
| Brakes | Drum (Front and Rear) |
| Suspension | Telescopic (Front), Coil Spring (Rear) |
| Kerb Weight | ~80 kg |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹ 86,690* (may vary by state subsidies) |
3. Design and Build Quality
The Zeal EX has a simple yet modern design that appeals to young and middle-aged commuters alike. While it doesn’t scream “futuristic,” its clean lines, dual-tone color options, and compact body make it suitable for daily use in crowded cities.
Some design highlights:
- LED headlamp and indicators for better visibility
- Stylish grab rail and footrest for pillion comfort
- Lightweight frame that is easy to handle even in heavy traffic
However, don’t expect premium build materials — the plastic panels feel adequate but not as refined as higher-end models.
4. Performance and Riding Experience
The Ampere Zeal EX offers moderate performance, enough for everyday urban use. The 1.8 kW BLDC hub motor delivers smooth acceleration, although the pickup is not as peppy as Ola S1 or Ather 450X.
- Top speed: 50-55 km/h makes it perfect for city rides, but highway rides are not recommended.
- Riding modes: It comes with multiple riding modes — Eco and Power — to manage performance and range.
- Suspension: The front telescopic and rear coil spring setup absorbs most city bumps effectively.
- Weight: At about 80 kg, the scooter is lightweight, which helps with maneuverability.
Overall, it offers a decent ride for students, office-goers, and delivery agents needing a reliable, short-distance vehicle.
5. Battery and Range
The Zeal EX is powered by a 2.3 kWh lithium-ion battery, and Ampere claims a range of up to 120 km on a full charge in Eco mode. In real-world conditions, you can expect around 85–100 km depending on your riding style, weight, terrain, and weather.
- Charging time: 5 to 6 hours using a standard home charger.
- Removable battery: No — the battery is fixed, so charging must be done at home or work where a plug point is available.
The absence of fast charging may be a downside for some, but it’s acceptable at this price point.
6. Features and Technology
The Zeal EX does not offer smart connected features like navigation, remote locking, or OTA updates. But it covers the basics well:
Key Features:
- Digital instrument cluster: Shows speed, battery level, and trip data.
- LED lighting: For headlamp and indicators.
- Anti-theft alarm: Basic security feature.
- Reverse assist: Useful in tight parking spots.
While minimalist, the features are practical and keep costs low. For users looking for flashy features and smartphone integration, this scooter might feel limited.
7. Maintenance and Running Costs
Electric scooters are known for their low maintenance requirements, and the Zeal EX is no different:
- No engine oil or air filters
- Lower servicing frequency
- Cost per km is roughly ₹0.20–₹0.25, compared to ₹2–₹2.5 for petrol scooters
Spare parts are also relatively inexpensive, and Ampere has a growing service network across India, although it’s still not as wide as Hero or Honda.
8. Price and Subsidy Benefits
The ex-showroom price of the Ampere Zeal EX is around ₹86,690*. However, prices vary significantly after accounting for state EV subsidies and FAME II incentives. In states like Delhi, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, the on-road price can drop by ₹10,000–₹25,000.
This makes it one of the most affordable high-speed electric scooters currently available in India.
9. Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Affordable price point
- Good real-world range
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Low maintenance and running cost
- Practical features for daily use
❌ Cons
- No fast charging
- Lacks smart connectivity features
- Top speed not suitable for highways
- Build quality could be better
- Battery is non-removable
10. Who Should Buy the Ampere Zeal EX?
The Zeal EX is ideal for:
- Students and daily commuters
- Senior citizens who need a lightweight scooter
- Office-goers traveling <30 km one-way
- Delivery agents needing an affordable e-scooter
If your usage is strictly within city limits, and you want an economical, eco-friendly vehicle with a decent range, the Zeal EX is a smart choice.
However, if you’re looking for high performance, fast charging, or smart features, you may want to explore alternatives like Ather 450S, Ola S1 Air, or TVS iQube.
11. Competitors in the Same Segment
The Zeal EX competes with the following:
- Hero Electric Photon HX – Similar price but slightly better range.
- Okinawa Praise Pro – More features, but mixed customer reviews.
- Bounce Infinity E1 – Swappable battery and better tech, but smaller dealer network.
- Ola S1 X (2kWh) – Better design and features, but slightly pricier.
Ampere holds its own with an affordable, reliable, and simple package — great for no-fuss riders.
Conclusion: Is Ampere Zeal EX Worth Buying?
The Ampere Zeal EX is a great value-for-money electric scooter for those who prioritize practicality over flashy features. It provides a commendable balance of range, reliability, and ease of use at a price point that is hard to beat.
As India continues to push for a greener future, options like the Zeal EX make electric mobility more accessible to the masses. While it may not be a tech-lover’s dream, it is definitely a commuter’s delight.
So if you’re planning to switch to electric and want something budget-friendly, Ampere Zeal EX deserves a serious look.
FAQs about Ampere Zeal EX
Q1: Is the Ampere Zeal EX suitable for long rides?
Not really. It’s best for city use due to its limited top speed and lack of fast charging.
Q2: How long does the battery last?
Ampere offers a 3-year battery warranty, and typical lithium-ion batteries last 4–5 years.
Q3: Can I ride with a pillion?
Yes, but performance may slightly drop, especially in hilly terrain.
Q4: Does it support mobile charging or GPS?
No, Zeal EX focuses on basics, not smart features.
