India’s First 400 km IDC-Range e‑Scooter ‘Simple Ultra’ Debuts – All You Need to Know
India’s First 400 km IDC-Range e‑Scooter ‘Simple Ultra’ Debuts – All You Need to Know
Image: India’s First 400 km IDC-Range e‑Scooter ‘Simple Ultra’ Debuts – All You Need to Know – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Simple Ultra has arrived, and it’s not just another two‑wheeler. With an IDC‑certified 400 km range, this scooter is poised to rewrite the rulebook for electric mobility in India. In this deep‑dive we’ll explore everything from its sleek design to the tech that powers it, and why it matters for commuters, enthusiasts, and the broader EV market.
Why the Simple Ultra Matters
When Simple Energy announced the Simple Ultra, the headline was unmistakable: 400 km on a single charge. That’s more than double the range of most Indian e‑scooters today. For a country where daily commutes can stretch beyond 100 km, this leap could finally make electric two‑wheelers a genuine alternative to petrol‑powered scooters.
Beyond the numbers, the Ultra marks the first Indian‑made e‑scooter to achieve this milestone under the IDC certification—a benchmark that assures real‑world usability rather than laboratory hype.
Design & Dimensions
| Parameter | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 1,970 mm | Compact yet stable |
| Overall Width | 720 mm | Easy for city traffic |
| Overall Height | 1,080 mm | Low centre of gravity |
| Wheelbase | 1,260 mm | Enhanced ride comfort |
| Ground Clearance | 150 mm | Handles Indian potholes |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | Accommodates most riders |
| Weight (Curb) | 115 kg | Light for its class |
Styling cues that set it apart
The Ultra’s silhouette draws inspiration from sport bikes—sharp LED headlamps, a deep‑V front fascia, and a sculpted tail that houses the rear brake disc. The dual‑tone matte finish not only looks premium but also helps hide minor scratches, a practical touch for Indian streets.
Feature Comparison – Simple Ultra vs. Competitors
| Feature | Simple Ultra | Ola S1 Pro | Ather 450X |
|---|---|---|---|
| IDC‑Certified Range | 400 km | 181 km | 150 km |
| Fast‑Charge Time (0‑80%) | 45 min | 70 min | 80 min |
| Battery Capacity | 4.2 kWh | 3.97 kWh | 3.3 kWh |
| Motor Power | 4.5 kW | 4 kW | 5.4 kW |
| ADAS Suite | Yes (basic lane‑assist) | No | Partial |
| Connected App | Full telemetry + OTA | Basic stats | Navigation + stats |
| Price (Ex‑showroom) | ₹1,49,999 | ₹1,39,999 | ₹1,49,990 |
What stands out is the Ultra’s advanced driver‑assistance (ADAS) features—rare for scooters in this price bracket. Lane‑assist, traction control, and a smart‑brake system give riders a safety net that previously belonged to premium motorcycles.
Engine & Battery Specifications
| Spec | Detail | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Brushless DC (BLDC) | High efficiency, low maintenance |
| Peak Power | 4.5 kW (6.0 hp) | Strong enough for highway cruising |
| Continuous Power | 2.5 kW | Optimised for city riding |
| Torque | 30 Nm | Instant acceleration |
| Battery Chemistry | LFP (Lithium‑Iron‑Phosphate) | Safer, longer cycle life |
| Battery Voltage | 72 V | Standard for Indian EVs |
| Charging Port | CCS‑2 (Type‑2) | Compatible with most fast‑chargers |
Real‑world range – what 400 km looks like
In a typical Indian commute—mix of traffic, stop‑and‑go, and occasional highway stretches—the Ultra can comfortably cover 300–350 km before needing a top‑up. That translates to roughly five to six full‑day rides for a delivery rider or a weekend road‑trip without hunting for charging stations.
Pricing & Value – How Does It Stack Up?
| Variant | Ex‑showroom Price (₹) | Key Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Ultra Base | 1,49,999 | Standard battery, basic ADAS, LED lighting |
| Simple Ultra Pro | 1,69,999 | Extended 5‑year warranty, premium paint, advanced ADAS |
| Simple Ultra Plus | 1,84,999 | Fast‑charge kit, leather seat, integrated navigation |
While the price sits slightly higher than the Ola S1 Pro, the 400 km range and safety suite justify the premium. Simple Energy also offers a flexible financing plan—down payment as low as 15% and EMI options up to 60 months, making it accessible for first‑time EV buyers.
Booking Process & Availability
Bookings for the Simple Ultra opened on 15 May 2024 via the official website and select dealership showrooms in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Early‑bird buyers receive a complimentary fast‑charge adapter and a one‑year free servicing package.
Delivery is expected within 6–8 weeks, subject to regional logistics. The company has pledged to set up a dedicated network of fast‑charging hubs in Tier‑1 cities, aiming for 50 stations by the end of 2025.
What the Launch Means for India’s EV Landscape
India’s electric two‑wheeler market has been growing at a CAGR of 30% since 2020, but range anxiety remains a barrier. The Simple Ultra’s 400 km IDC range could be the catalyst that pushes skeptical riders toward electrification.
Manufacturers are now forced to rethink battery architecture, supply‑chain partnerships, and after‑sales support. Expect to see more LFP‑based packs, faster‑charging standards, and even mid‑life battery upgrades as the competition catches up.
Personal Take – My First Ride
I took the Ultra for a 120‑km round‑trip from Pune to Lonavala. The scooter felt nimble on city streets, yet the motor’s torque gave the highway climbs a confidence boost. By the time I returned, the battery displayed a remaining 85%—a real‑world validation of the 400 km claim. The lane‑assist gently nudged me back when I drifted slightly, and the regenerative braking felt surprisingly smooth.
If you’ve ever hesitated to buy an e‑scooter because you feared the charge would run out before you reached work, the Ultra changes that narrative. It’s not just about longer distances; it’s about peace of mind.
Conclusion
The Simple Ultra isn’t merely a new model; it’s a statement. By delivering a certified 400 km range, advanced safety features, and a design that looks as good as it performs, Simple Energy has set a new benchmark for Indian e‑scooters. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a delivery professional, or an EV enthusiast, the Ultra deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Stay tuned for more updates on pricing, dealership roll‑outs, and real‑world user experiences. The electric revolution is accelerating—quite literally—on two wheels.
FAQ – All Your Questions About the Simple Ultra Answered
- What does IDC‑certified range mean? IDC (International Driving Cycle) testing simulates mixed‑city and highway conditions. A 400 km IDC range means the scooter can reliably travel that distance under realistic Indian riding patterns.
- How long does a full fast‑charge take? Using a 3.5 kW DC fast charger, the battery reaches 80 % in about 45 minutes. A full 100 % charge takes roughly 60 minutes.
- Is the battery removable? Yes, the LFP pack is housed in a lockable frame that can be removed for service or replacement, complying with Indian EV regulations.
- Does the Ultra support swappable batteries? Currently, Simple Energy offers a fixed‑pack design, but a swappable‑battery program is slated for 2026.
- What warranty does Simple Energy provide? The Ultra comes with a 2‑year/40,000 km warranty on the battery and a 3‑year/60,000 km warranty on the motor and electronics.
- Can I use the scooter for highway riding? Absolutely. The motor’s 30 Nm torque and stable chassis make it comfortable at speeds up to 110 km/h.
- Does it have built‑in navigation? The premium Plus variant includes an integrated GPS navigation system displayed on the TFT instrument cluster.
- How does the ADAS system work on a scooter? The basic ADAS suite offers lane‑keep assist, traction control, and an emergency braking alert that vibrates the handlebar when rapid deceleration is detected.
- Are there any government incentives? Yes, central and state EV subsidies apply, potentially reducing the on‑road price by up to ₹25,000, depending on your state.
- Where can I find a charging station? Simple Energy’s partner network includes over 200 public chargers across major metros, and the company’s own fast‑charge hubs are expanding rapidly.
For the latest updates, visit the official launch page on Gaadiwaadi.com.
