Suzuki forays into electric two-wheelers with the e-Access
While prominent electric two-wheeler start-ups like Ola Electric and Ather Energy have adopted more distinctive and sporty designs, Suzuki has taken a restrained approach for the e-Access and given it a conventional commuter-style design. The new electric scooter features sleek LED headlights and tail lights, LED turn signals, and 12-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
The company has engineered the e-Access as a basic model, equipping it with a mid-mounted motor that produces 4.1 kW and 15 Nm of torque and gives a modest top speed of 71 kph. It integrates an aluminium battery case into the frame for enhanced rigidity and stability, and this case houses a 3.07 kWh LFP battery.
Suzuki has not disclosed the acceleration time, but it says the e-Access can achieve a top speed of 71 kph. The new electric scooter consumes 39 Wh per kilometre and covers a distance of 95 kilometres on a single charge. Fully charging its 3.07 kWh LFP battery takes six hours and 20 minutes.
Most competitors offer far greater value for money with significantly better performance and range. Ola Electric’s S1 Pro+, for instance, sports a 13 kW motor that gives it a top speed of 130 kph and a 5.2 kWh NMC battery that delivers a range of 320 kilometres, and the company has priced it at 174,999 rupees (€1,663 euros). The Simple One achieves a top speed of 115 kph and travels 400 kilometres on a single charge, for 177,999 rupees (€1,691 euros)*.
The e-Access features a small 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity and navigation. Competitors offer larger, 7-inch displays with music playback and several other additional features. While rivals offer a rear disc brake and ABS for enhanced safety, the e-Access settles for a rear drum brake and a combined braking system.
Suzuki unveiled the e-Access in January last year and commenced production in May, but it had to postpone the launch until now for unknown reasons. The company is offering the electric scooter at dealerships across India and plans to sell it even on Flipkart, a major e-commerce retailer.
*Ex-showroom prices excluding registration cost and insurance
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