The Hero Electric Optima HX is an affordable electric scooter offering a balance between range, features and pricing. With prices starting at Rs. 1.07 Lakhs, it presents an accessible EV solution for budget conscious buyers.
Introduction
Hero Electric, India’s leading electric two wheeler brand, offers the Optima model catering to urban mobility needs. Available in two variants primarily differentiated by range, the electric scooter combines:
- Modern minimalist styling
- Entry level affordable EV pricing
- Adequate features for everyday commute
- Sufficient real-world range per charge
Offering familiar scooter capabilities in an electric format at an easy investment makes the Optima HX an appealing value proposition for green switchers.
Price, Variants and Colors
Pricing
The Hero Electric Optima HX price across its trims are:
| Variant | Price | Battery | Range/Charge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optima HX H-12 | ₹1.07 Lakhs | 1.44 kWh | 135 km |
| Optima CX H-5.4 | ₹1.30 Lakhs | 2.16 kWh | 165 km |
| (Ex-showroom Delhi Prices) |
Variants Difference
As visible, the main differences between variants are:
- Battery pack capacity
- Maximum range deliverable per full charge
- Features to some extent
- Pricing varies by ₹20,000 based on battery kWh rating
Color Options
Available color choice consists of:
- Maroon
- Ocean Blue
So the options are limited to two subdue matte finishes, presumably keeping investment low.
Design, Dimensions and Weight
Styling
Like most electric scooters, the Hero Electric Optima follows a minimalist sleek design direction:
- Handlebar mounted headlamp and exposed upright suspension
- Plain flat floorboard without front apron faux
- Slim seat shaped for solo rider focus
- Compact rear profile with integrated pillion handles
- Steel rims matched to body color
- Raised center spine running below seat for rigidity
It is a straightforward shape and design geared for functional practicality. Build quality seems robust but finish levels feel cost optimized.
Dimensions and Ground Clearance
- Length – 1820 mm
- Width – 678 mm
- Height – 1188 mm (high handlebar)
- Wheelbase – 1285 mm
- Ground Clearance – 156 mm
Standout dimensions are its class leading ground clearance combined with a long wheelbase. Together they enable confident high speed stability when riding over uneven surfaces.
Curb Weight
Tipping scales at 102 kg, the Optima is relatively light. The rigid steel frame adds slightly more mass but keeps center of gravity lower compensating somewhat. The lightness aids acceleration and gradient climbing.
Electric Powertrain and Range
Motor Output and Torque
An 1200W electric hub motor delivers peppy acceleration for nimble city riding. Peak torque production is 8 Nm almost instantly allowing quicker getaways from traffic signals – an advantage in congested roads. For perspective the Activa 125 produces 10.3 Nm torque via its 124cc fan-cooled engine.
Battery Pack and Certified Range
Energy is stored in a 1.44 kWh Lithium Ion battery pack for the entry HX H-12 variant. Hero claims a class leading IDC certified range of 135 km on full charge. Real world customer reports suggest upwards of 80 km practical regular use range is common indicating healthy buffer for urban duties. A home charger is bundled along with purchase.
The CX H-5.4 variant doubles up battery capacity to 2.16 kWh delivering 165 km max range to alleviate range anxiety. It caters to buyers doing longer duty cycles.
Charging Time
The standard charger takes about 6.5 hours for 0-100% recharging. The long duration is not too surprising given its entry price point. More expensive ‘Fast Charge’ technology seen in certain premium models delivers quicker top ups, but is absent here to keep costs down. Still 5-6 hours downtime overnight is reasonably adequate for private use given its daily commute range coverage.
Battery Warranty
Each battery pack is warranted for 4 Years as assurance towards operating life. Hero service network can facilitate assessment or replacement if health deterioration cases arise within the coverage period. This adds confidence about costs of operating an EV over the long run.
Performance, Handling and Safety
Acceleration and Top Speed
The electric motor produces sufficient zip for city riding, taking 14 seconds approximately for 0-40 kmph runs. It tops out at a max speed of 55 kmph – not outright fast but meets public road limits. Linear power delivery enables confident overtakes while responsive brakes add control at hurried stoplights.
Dynamics and Gradability
A rigid chassis frame helps keeps center of gravity low. Combined with 150 mm ground clearance, it maintains stability over undulations, speed breakers and light off-road patches. 10 degree gradability adds assurance climbing flyovers without assistance needed. 25 liter underseat capacity allows safely stashing knick-knacks avoiding pendulum effect on turns. Overall the dynamics hold up well for real world conditions.
Safety and Braking Setup
- Braking – Drum brakes front (D – 200 mm) and rear (D – 130 mm)
- 80/100 R12 puncture resistant tyres ⌀ 2.75” width
- Braking energy regeneration to recover some charge
- Find my bike feature via bluetooth mobile app
While multiple features aid safety and recovery, the lack of Combi Brake System or ABS even as option is a miss – presumably a tradeoff targeting entry affordability. Still the 130 kg kerb weight keeps braking loads within drum brake capability. Responsible restricted speed riding aids stopping distances sufficiently for intended urban use.
Features, Storage and Connectivity
LCD Information Cluster
A simple monochrome digital display mounted inside the headlamp beams out key information:
- Battery level indicator with remaining charge range
- Riding mode – Eco or Power
- Indicator and service reminder alerts
- Odometer for distance tracking
Readouts get the job done without dazzling augmentation tech keeping focus on basics.
Storage Solutions
Underseat storage swallowed oversized 2/2 open face helmets confirming 25 liter capacity claimed. Reasonable for solo grocery runs or carrying one pillion’s wares.
Small open cubby in front apron stashes mobile phone securely. Thoughtful touches like 1 litre bottle holder and bag hook inside reduce loose items.
Ride Statistics and Tracking
Bluetooth mobile connectivity enables useful features via Hero Electric’s app:
- Battery status and charge level tracking
- Ride logs recording trip distance, time taken etc
- Last parked location for effortless finding
- Service reminder and diagnostic alerts
While not advanced versus premium offerings, it covers daily usage basics adequately to appeal to budget buyers. Scope for adding functionality down the road.
Other Notable Features
- Walk assist mode uses energy to gently propel vehicle forward easing short distance maneuvering
- Reverse mode similarly eases backwards roll out from parking spots
- LED headlamp with high beam boosts visibility at dusk and dawn
- USB charging port beneath handlebar keeps mobiles continually powered
Together the practical touches enhance regular around-town user convenience adequately without glossy embellishments.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The Optima HX generally scores quite decently among entry EV scooters in terms of ratings and reviews:
Expert Reviews
- Autocar India – 7/10 – Value for money electric scooter for amateur EV enthusiasts
- Bikewale – 4/5 – Practical short commute focused electric two-wheeler
Customer Ratings
- Facebook – 4/5 stars – Superb city ride praised various buyers
- YouTube – 4/5 average rating on video reviews
Reviewers commonly identified pros like lightweight proportional power, storage space utility and real world operating cost savings versus previous petrol vehicles. Build quality reliability, ease of home charging and Hero network support add peace of mind.
Suggested Improvements
- Add combi brakes for active safety interventions
- Cloud connect features can boost monitoring and recovery
- Optional alloy wheels with tubeless tires instead of steel
- Paint finish robustness can still be refined further
While largely positive for the price, additional aspects like added connectivity, colors or improved finish can enhance appeal among younger demographics.
Electric Scooter Competition
Price Comparison
The Hero Electric Optima primarily faces competition from:
| Scooter | Price |
|---|---|
| Hero Electric Optima | ₹1.07 Lakhs |
| (HX H-12 variant) | |
| Okinawa Like | ₹1.03 Lakhs |
| Ampere Magnus | ₹98,000 |
It strikes an attractive starting price point for electric scooter buyers focused on dependable basics for daily short runs rather than outright performance. Significant savings versus faster but pricier alternatives.
Performance and Charging Comparison
Hero Electric Optima: 1200W electric drive trainer targeted as urban runabout EV with 135 km certified range and 6 hours charging time.
Okinawa Like: Another practical urban commuter using 250W BLDC Hub motor and offering 100 km per charge range with 4 hours recharge time.
Ampere Magnus: Entry level 60 kmph city scooter using 750W electric motor enabling per charge range of 80 km approx. 5 hour recharge time.
The Optima scales well on usable range and charging downtime while keeping acquisition cost low in the electric scooter space. It caters well to budget buyers not expecting blazing speed but wanting sufficient real world grunt for short regular commutes.
Latest News and Updates
New Customization Options
Hero recently introduced an array of customizable color and wrap options for the Optima named Playzy Range. Now in addition to its standard colors, it offers:
- 13 Pre-Designed wrap templates like Camo Green, Radar Blue appealing to youth
- Option for buyers to customize colors and basic graphics
- Priced only ₹5000 over standard model
The custom wraps innovation provides flair while keeping purchase price accessible to young commuters.
FAME II Subsidy Revision
Being an electric scooter qualifying under FAME 2 norms, buyers enjoy attractive upfront purchase discounts:
- ₹15,000 federal subsidy discount from vehicle price sleabs
- Additional state incentives depending on local EV policies
This improves the entry price accessibility further for green mobility aspirants with budget constraints.
Goa Market Focus
Hero Electric has a dominant 95% + EV two-wheeler market share in Goa driven by rising fuel prices and environmental consciousness. It has over 200 dealers in the state and supplies EVs to Goa Energy Development Agency. Hero now plans to invest ₹100 crores in coming years to further scale up manufacturing and distribution to consolidate Goa leadership while using it as benchmark for other similar markets. Government subsidies, HORECA hyperlocal delivery needs and community yard electrification created a viable EV ecosystem there.
The developments highlight Hero Electric’s expanding initiatives beyond sales to boost EV adoption by shaping supportive infrastructure ground up.
Electric Scooter City Prices
Like most automobile brands, Hero Electric publishes ex-showroom prices listing state-wise variation:
| City | Optima HX H-12 Price |
|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹1.07 Lakhs |
| Gurgaon | ₹1.07 Lakhs |
| Lucknow | ₹1.11 Lakhs |
| Jaipur | ₹1.10 Lakhs |
| Chandigarh | ₹1.23 Lakhs |
On road prices after registration, insurance etc varies depending on local taxes, registration differences and state EV incentives available. But indicative ex-showroom prices provide a starting reference point for budgeting.
FAQs
What is the Hero Electric warranty coverage?
Hero offers a 4 year warranty covering factory defects on electric components including the battery pack. Additionally a 6 month warranty covers general mechanical and electrical parts quality.
Does it have fast charging support?
No, fast charging tech is skipped in favor of lower ownership costs. But the bundled standard charger conveniently recharges battery overnight within 6 hours.
What is the ground clearance of Optima HX?
It stands quite tall boasting of 156 mm ground clearance. Combined with 12 inch wheels, it handles moderate undulations confidently without underbody grazing even at decent clip
Can I buy battery from alternate brands post warranty?
Yes, while using genuine batteries is recommended for best compatibility, the electric interfaces allow fitment of compatible range extender batteries from other brands too once factory warranty lapses.
