Bengaluru-based electric vehicle (EV) startup River has launched the Indie, said to be the SUV of scooters. The scooter brings a new design and offers several never-before-seen features that expand the ways a scooter can be used. Indie is priced at INR 1,25,000 (ex-showroom Bengaluru).

Pre-orders are open on the River website from today, with deliveries starting in August 2023.

Indie was conceived and designed at the River R&D facility in Bengaluru and will be manufactured at the River Factory on the outskirts of the city.

« River’s mission is to improve the day-to-day lives of people through a design-first approach. Our first product, Indie, is a bold statement, combining two different offerings: utility and lifestyle. It will be the most sensible scooter with the right mix of practicality, capability, and style, » Aravind Mani, co-founder and chief executive officer, River, said.

Indie features 14-inch wheels, the first of their kind on any electric scooter being sold in India. The large wheels offer a commanding riding position and great rideability and manoeuvrability on a variety of road conditions. The scooter has the largest storage of any scooter, with a massive 43 liters of storage under the seat and a 12 litre front glove box. The exclusive Lock & Load pannier stays on the sides offer an array of customizations to serve different purposes and are the first of their kind on any type of scooter.

The signature twin beam headlamps and a unique tail lamp design distinguish the scooter while ensuring maximum visibility on the road.The motorcycle-inspired clip-on handlebar provides better handling and stability. Indie also features « Safeguards, » another signature design element that protects the body panels in the event of a fall.

« Indie is inspired by the modern Indian who is always on the move and wants to make the most of every day. The unique combination of design elements and technical specs gives Indie a distinct character, something that inspires you to do more and be more, » Vipin George, co-founder and chief product officer, River, said.

The riding position is ergonomically designed to comfortably accommodate individuals of different heights. Indie has the longest and widest seat in the segment, ensuring uncompromising comfort. The front foot pegs, another first-of-its kind feature in a scooter, allow for a safe and comfortable ride while maximizing the storage on the floor board. Indie features twin-rear hydraulic suspension and telescopic front suspension, offering supreme comfort.

The powerful motor with a peak power of 6.7 kW can take Indie to a top speed of 90 kmph and has a gradeability of 18 degrees. And the rider can seamlessly switch between three ride modes: eco, ride, and rush. The 4 kWh battery provides a real-world range of 120 km and can be charged to 80% capacity in 5 hours with a standard charger. The high-contrast color display offers great visibility even on a sunny day. The two USB charging ports and the reverse parking assist feature add to the convenience.

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