TVS finally launched its most powerful and top-spec model of the iQube electric scooter, the ST. It is offered in two variants that differ in battery capacity, range, charging time, and asking price. Today, we have pitted the iQube ST against the Ather Rizta Z. Both are top-spec variants of their respective models.
Design
The TVS iQube ST appears similar to the other iQube variants. It gets a boxy bodywork with an apron-mounted LED headlight and a handlebar-integrated LED DRL. The overall design of the iQube ST is quite simple and should appeal to a mature audience. It is a similar case with the Ather Rizta Z, as the scooter looks family-friendly and doesn’t have a lot of aggressive cues. Overall, both scooters look practical.
Features
TVS has loaded the iQube ST with a bunch of features including a seven-inch TFT, turn-by-turn navigation, call/SMS notifications, document storage, music control, social media notifications, four cluster themes, and OTA updates. On the other hand, the Ather Rizta Z boasts Smart, Eco and Zip – traction control, mobile charging, auto hold and reverse mode. These options can be viewed and controlled through its fully digital instrument console. It also packs smartphone connectivity for Google Maps, displays live traffic data and allows auto reply to calls and WhatsApp preview.
However, Ather offers the full feature suit only with the Pro Pack which costs Rs. 20,000 over the asking price. It is quite evident that the Ather Rizta has more features.
Motor and Battery
Powering the TVS iQube ST is a 4.4kW BLDC hub motor with 33Nm of torque and 82kmph of top speed. It is linked to a 5.1kWh battery that offers 150km of true range. The Ather Rizta Z uses a 4.3kW motor and a 3.7kWh battery. The said setup gives a 160km range and an 80kmph top speed. Performance for both EVs here is almost on par.
Hardware
Both EVs ride on telescopic front forks but the Ather gets a monoshock whereas the iQube uses dual rear shocks. Then, the brakes too are similar as the setup includes a front disc and rear drum setup, mounted on 12-inch wheels.
Price
The asking price for the TVS iQube ST is set at Rs. 1,85,373 (both, ex-showroom, Bengaluru) and the Ather Rizta Z costs Rs. 1,44,999 with an additional cost of Rs. 20,000 for the Pro Pack. But even then, the Ather scooter costs less than the TVS iQube ST and offers similar performance, more features and more space as well.
