The Hero Optima is a name that resonates with electric vehicle enthusiasts, especially in the Indian two-wheeler market. As one of Hero Electric’s most popular offerings, the Optima has been a game-changer in terms of providing eco-friendly, affordable, and practical electric mobility.
Over the years, Hero Electric has established itself as a pioneer in India’s electric two-wheeler space, and the Hero Optima plays a significant role in driving the brand’s vision for a cleaner, greener future.
The Hero Optima is designed to cater to both urban commuters and environmentally conscious riders looking for an alternative to fuel-driven vehicles.
With its reliable performance, cost-effective pricing, and zero-emission nature, the Optima has quickly become a go-to choice for daily transportation. Let’s explore what makes the Hero Optima stand out in the electric two-wheeler segment.
Design and Styling:
The Hero Optima’s design is clean, simple, and functional, making it ideal for urban environments. The scooter boasts a contemporary look with sleek body panels, a wide, comfortable seat, and a minimalistic dashboard that offers essential ride data.
Hero Electric has kept the aesthetics modern but practical, ensuring that the Optima appeals to a broad spectrum of riders, from first-time EV buyers to seasoned commuters.
The front of the Optima is characterized by a distinctive LED headlamp, which provides adequate illumination for night rides. The bodywork is compact yet sturdy, designed to handle daily use without compromising on aesthetics.
The wide footboard adds to the scooter’s practicality, giving the rider ample space for a comfortable stance. Its slim profile makes it easy to maneuver through busy city traffic, further enhancing its appeal for daily commuting.
Overall, the design of the Hero Optima is clean and uncomplicated, reflecting the brand’s focus on functionality, ease of use, and practicality.
Performance and Powertrain:
The Hero Optima is powered by a hub-mounted electric motor that offers a smooth, silent, and efficient performance. Depending on the variant, the Optima is available with different battery configurations (Lead Acid or Lithium-Ion), with the latter offering better range, efficiency, and longevity.
The Hero Optima Li (Lithium-Ion version) comes with a 1.2 kW motor, providing a peak speed of around 45 km/h and a range of approximately 50-80 km on a single charge,
depending on factors such as riding style, terrain, and battery type. The Lead Acid version is relatively more affordable but comes with a slightly lower range and slower charging time.
One of the key highlights of the Optima is its silent operation, a characteristic that sets it apart from traditional petrol-powered scooters. This not only contributes to a quieter urban environment but also provides a smooth and comfortable riding experience, with minimal vibrations and noise.
The scooter’s regenerative braking system ensures that some of the energy lost during braking is converted back into the battery, further enhancing the scooter’s efficiency and range. It is a practical feature that improves energy conservation and reduces the overall cost of ownership over time.
Battery and Charging:
The battery is one of the most crucial components of any electric vehicle, and Hero Electric has paid special attention to making the Optima’s battery pack both durable and efficient.
- The Lithium-Ion battery in the Hero Optima comes with a higher energy density, which not only results in better range but also allows for faster charging times.
- It can typically be charged from 0% to 100% in 4-5 hours using a standard home charging outlet. The battery is also lighter and more compact compared to lead-acid alternatives, making it easier to handle and install.
- The Lead Acid battery, on the other hand, is more affordable, though it requires longer charging times (usually 8-10 hours) and provides a lower range. However, for users looking for a budget-friendly option, the Lead Acid variant remains a viable choice.
The Hero Optima comes with a removable battery in some versions, allowing the user to take it indoors to charge, making it convenient for those without access to dedicated parking spaces with charging infrastructure.
Ride Quality and Handling:
The Hero Optima is built to provide a comfortable and stable ride, especially for city commuting. The suspension setup includes telescopic forks in the front and dual shock absorbers at the rear,
ensuring that the scooter handles bumps and rough surfaces with ease. Whether navigating pothole-filled roads or riding over uneven surfaces, the Optima delivers a smooth and stable ride, making it perfect for daily commuting.
The lightweight construction of the Hero Optima, combined with its compact dimensions, allows for agile handling. The scooter is easy to ride and maneuver, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced riders.
With a low center of gravity, the Optima offers excellent stability, particularly when turning or making quick maneuvers in dense city traffic. The flat footboard and comfortable seat design also contribute to the overall comfort of the ride.
Safety Features:
Hero Electric has equipped the Optima with a range of safety features to ensure that the rider enjoys a safe and secure experience. Some of the notable safety features include:
- Drum brakes at both the front and rear, providing adequate stopping power for a scooter of this size and speed.
- Regenerative braking system, which not only helps to recharge the battery but also provides smoother and more controlled braking.
- Bright LED lighting, which improves visibility during night riding.
While the Hero Optima may not feature advanced safety technologies like ABS or disc brakes, it is still well-suited for city riding where speeds are lower, and the focus is more on comfort and convenience than high-performance braking.
Price and Availability:
The Hero Optima is one of the more affordable electric scooters available in India, especially considering the increasing prices of electric vehicles. The price of the Hero Optima varies depending on the model and battery variant.
The Lead Acid version typically costs around ₹55,000 to ₹60,000 (ex-showroom), while the Lithium-Ion variant is priced higher at around ₹75,000 to ₹80,000.
The Optima is widely available across India, with Hero Electric offering a network of dealers and service centers to cater to customers’ needs, including after-sales service and support.
Additionally, the availability of government incentives and subsidies for electric vehicles in India makes the Hero Optima an even more cost-effective choice.
Conclusion:
The Hero Optima is a well-rounded electric scooter that delivers reliable performance, impressive efficiency, and a comfortable ride at an affordable price.
It is designed with the urban commuter in mind, offering an eco-friendly and budget-friendly alternative to traditional petrol-powered two-wheelers.
Whether you’re an environmentally conscious rider looking to reduce your carbon footprint or someone simply looking for an affordable and practical daily ride, the Hero Optima is an excellent option.
With its simple design, practical features, and silent operation, the Hero Optima serves as an ideal first electric scooter for those making the transition to electric mobility.
As more people shift towards greener alternatives, the Hero Optima remains a smart choice for those looking to embrace the future of transportation today.