Ampere Electric Zeal EX

The Ampere Zeal EX is powered by a 1.8 kW Brushless DC (BLDC) hub-mounted motor, paired with a 2.3 kWh Advanced Lithium-ion battery pack. This powertrain configuration is engineered specifically for intra-city mobility, not outright performance. On paper, the scooter has a claimed top speed of 50-55 km/h, a figure that is achievable on flat terrain but can feel strained on inclines or with a pillion. The throttle response is calibrated for smoothness rather than aggression, making it approachable for new riders or those transitioning from internal combustion engine (ICE) scooters. Acceleration from 0-40 km/h is adequate for keeping pace with city traffic, but highway overtakes are not its forte.

The most critical performance metric for any electric vehicle is its range. The Zeal EX boasts an ARAI-certified range of 121 km on a single charge. However, in real-world conditions involving varied throttle inputs, traffic, and road gradients, a more realistic range of 85-95 km should be expected. The scooter offers two riding modes that directly impact this figure. Eco mode restricts top speed to conserve energy, maximising range, while Power mode provides access to the full 55 km/h, albeit at a significant cost to battery endurance. A full charge takes approximately 5 hours using a standard 15A household socket, aligning with the typical overnight charging cycle for a daily commuter.

Comfort and practicality are central to the Ampere Zeal EX's value proposition. The scooter features a long, wide, and well-cushioned seat that provides adequate support for the rider on daily commutes. The riding posture is upright and neutral, with an ergonomically sound handlebar-seat-footboard triangle that minimises strain over short distances. The seat height is accessible for a wide range of riders, and the low kerb weight makes it easy to put a foot down in stop-and-go traffic. Pillion comfort is acceptable for short trips, with functional grab rails and decently placed footpegs. One of the scooter's most significant practical advantages is its flat floorboard, which provides ample legroom and allows the rider to carry groceries or a bag between their feet, a feature often overlooked in more stylised electric scooters.

However, the underseat storage is a compromise. While it can accommodate a small half-face helmet and a few essentials, a standard full-face helmet will not fit. This limitation requires riders to either carry their helmet or invest in a separate storage solution. There is a small glovebox in the front apron for storing a phone or wallet, which adds a layer of convenience. Heat management is a non-issue due to the electric powertrain, ensuring a comfortable ride even in dense, slow-moving traffic where ICE scooters would radiate significant heat. Overall, the Zeal EX scores well on day-to-day usability, provided the user's storage needs are modest.

The chassis of the Ampere Zeal EX is suspended by a telescopic fork at the front and twin hydraulic shock absorbers at the rear. This is a conventional and cost-effective setup common in the commuter scooter segment. In urban environments, the suspension does a competent job of absorbing minor road imperfections like small potholes and uneven patches. However, sharper bumps and larger craters can unsettle the ride, sending jolts through the handlebar. The scooter's low kerb weight of just 80 kg is its most significant handling asset. This makes it exceptionally agile and easy to manoeuvre through dense traffic, filter between vehicles, and manage in tight parking spaces. High-speed stability, tested at its peak speed of 50-55 km/h, is acceptable on well-paved roads, but crosswinds can be felt due to its light build.

Braking duties are handled by 130 mm drum brakes on both the front and rear wheels, governed by a Combi-Braking System (CBS). While CBS is a mandatory safety feature that helps distribute braking force between both wheels, the absence of a front disc brake is a noticeable omission. In comparison, competitors like the Okinawa PraisePro offer a front disc, which provides superior bite and feedback. The drum brakes on the Zeal EX are adequate for its performance envelope, bringing the scooter to a halt predictably in dry conditions. However, during aggressive braking or in wet conditions, they can feel spongy and lack the confidence-inspiring sharpness of a disc setup.

The Ampere Zeal EX adopts a conservative and functional design language that prioritises practicality over aesthetic flair. Its body panels are sleek but understated, aiming for a broad appeal rather than a niche, youthful market. The overall silhouette is compact, reinforcing its purpose as an urban runabout. The lighting system consists of a halogen headlamp with LED daytime running lights (DRLs), a compromise that keeps costs down while offering some modern appeal. At the rear, an LED tail lamp enhances visibility. The instrument cluster is a basic digital unit that displays essential information such as speed, battery level, odometer, and the selected riding mode. While legible, it lacks the sophistication and connectivity features seen on rivals from Ola or Ather.

From a features perspective, the Zeal EX is equipped with the essentials for a modern commuter. It includes a USB charging port located conveniently in the front apron, allowing riders to charge their mobile devices on the go—a highly practical feature for the target demographic. It also comes with two riding modes (Eco and Power) to help manage the trade-off between range and performance. A side-stand sensor, which prevents the scooter from starting when the stand is engaged, is a crucial safety inclusion. However, it misses out on advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, or a dedicated mobile app, which are increasingly becoming standard expectations in the electric scooter market, even at competitive price points.

The safety equipment on the Ampere Zeal EX is foundational and compliant with current regulations for its category, but it does not set new benchmarks. The primary safety technology is the Combi-Braking System (CBS) applied to its 130 mm drum brakes on both wheels. CBS is designed to automatically actuate a portion of the front brake when the rear brake lever is pulled, reducing the chances of a skid during sudden braking, especially for novice riders. While effective in principle, the overall braking confidence is limited by the inherent nature of drum brakes, which can be prone to fade under heavy use and offer less feedback than a disc brake setup. In wet conditions, riders will need to be particularly cautious and apply the brakes progressively to avoid wheel lock.

Visibility is another key aspect of safety. The scooter is equipped with a halogen headlamp, which provides adequate illumination for city streets but lacks the intensity and spread of the LED or projector units found on some competitors. The inclusion of LED DRLs and an LED tail lamp does enhance the scooter's visibility to other road users during the day and night. The mandatory side-stand sensor is a critical feature that prevents accidental starts. However, the Zeal EX lacks advanced electronic aids such as an anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, or sophisticated hazard warning systems. While not expected at this price point, their absence means the safety net is basic and relies heavily on the rider's skill and anticipation.

The entry-level electric scooter segment in India is fiercely contested, and the Ampere Zeal EX faces strong rivals.

Hero Electric Optima CX:

As a product from India's largest electric two-wheeler manufacturer by volume, the Optima CX’s key differentiator is Hero Electric's vast service network and brand trust. It offers similar performance metrics and often comes with the option of a portable, removable battery, adding a layer of convenience for users living in apartments without dedicated charging points.

Okinawa PraisePro:

This scooter positions itself as a slightly more performance-oriented alternative. Its main differentiator is the inclusion of a front disc brake, which provides superior braking performance and confidence compared to the Zeal EX’s dual-drum setup. It also boasts a marginally higher top speed of around 58 km/h, appealing to buyers who desire a bit more pace.

Ola S1 X (2 kWh variant):

Representing the new-age competition, the Ola S1 X's primary differentiator is its technology and modern platform. Even in its base variant, it offers a more contemporary design, a superior digital instrument cluster with MoveOS features, and a perception of being a more advanced product, often at a very competitive price point that directly challenges legacy players.

Who should buy it? 

The Zeal EX is ideal for first-time EV buyers, students, or urban commuters seeking a lightweight, simple, and easy-to-manage scooter for daily errands and short-distance travel. Its low running costs and accessible nature are its strongest selling points for this specific user profile.

Who should skip it? 

Riders who require highway capability, a true range exceeding 100 km, advanced technological features like navigation, or the superior safety of disc brakes should consider alternatives. Buyers prioritising underseat storage for a full-face helmet will also find the Zeal EX inadequate for their needs.