The electric scooter market in India has experienced rapid growth, with over 1 lakh units sold last month alone, marking a 31% increase. With a plethora of options available from established brands and startups, selecting the right scooter can be a daunting task. For most buyers, the primary considerations revolve around the scooter's ease of use, practicality, and comfort. On the other hand, for companies, setting the right price is crucial, especially in the entry-level segment.

Hero MotoCorp's EV brand, Vida, has entered this competitive space with the VX2. Available in two variants, we had the opportunity to test out the higher-spec VX2 Plus. Here's our assessment of this model.

At first glance, the VX2 Plus exudes a well-thought-out urban-commuting vibe. It boasts a modern, clean-cut design with a range of attractive color options, standing out without being ostentatious. The scooter features a wraparound LED headlamp with a distinctive "H" signature on the front apron. Similarly, the sleek LED tail-lamp at the rear, also adorned with the "H" signature, adds to the overall aesthetic appeal.

The design strikes a balance without appearing forced; everything seamlessly integrates, with smooth body panels and sporty turbine-like alloy wheels that add visual appeal without being excessive.

Upon mounting the scooter, the VX2 Plus immediately feels user-friendly. The upright riding posture and well-positioned handlebar offer a relaxed grip. The spacious seat, at 851 mm in length, provides ample room for both rider and pillion, ensuring a comfortable journey. The seat cushioning is soft and supportive, allowing for fatigue-free rides even after extended trips. Additionally, the wide, flat floorboard enhances convenience for carrying items or stretching out legs.

The VX2 Plus prioritizes smooth, usable power over sportiness, delivering an optimal daily riding experience. Its 6 kW motor is powered by two removable batteries with a total capacity of 3.4 kWh. With Eco, Ride, and Sport ride modes available, the scooter offers responsive and stable performance. The acceleration is predictable and linear, comfortably reaching 80 kmph in Sport mode, suitable for urban roads. The scooter retains around 50 km of range in Eco mode after a ride, translating to approximately 70 km with mixed Ride and Sport mode usage.

The VX2 Plus boasts a well-balanced suspension setup, with telescopic forks at the front and an offset monoshock at the rear, ensuring a comfortable ride over various road conditions. The scooter's handling is nimble and precise, offering stability around corners and in straight-line maneuvers.

Braking duties are managed by a front disc and rear drum setup, providing adequate bite and control, enhancing confidence during daily commutes. The scooter features a 4.3-inch TFT display that offers essential information such as range, speed, ride modes, and navigation when linked to a smartphone. Additional features like Reverse and Boost modes add convenience to the overall riding experience.

The VX2 Plus offers three charging options: a portable home charger for full charging in approximately 5.5 hours, a fast charger for 80% capacity in just an hour, and the flexibility of removing and charging the batteries at convenient locations, catering to diverse user needs.

After thorough testing, the Vida VX2 Plus emerges as a well-rounded choice. Its blend of stylish design, comfortable ride, practical performance, decent range, and feature-rich offerings, all at an attractive price point, makes it a compelling option for potential buyers.

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