Bengaluru-based startup Simple Energy recently introduced a more budget-friendly electric scooter known as the Dot One, equipped with a smaller 3.7kWh battery. During its initial launch period, this e-scooter was offered at an introductory price of Rs 99,999 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru). However, the introductory period has concluded, and the pricing has now been increased to Rs 1,39,999, including the charger. In comparison, the Simple One, featuring a larger 5kWh battery, was priced at Rs 1.45 lakh when officially launched in May 2023.
For existing Simple One pre-booking holders, the company offers an opportunity to switch to the Dot One at the reduced price of Rs 99,999 until December 31. Following this date, the cost will escalate to Rs 1,39,999 for all pre-bookings of the Simple Dot One. The larger battery size of the Simple One, priced at Rs 1,58,000 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru, including charger), indicates that sustaining the original pricing structure, particularly after the recent reduction in the FAME-II subsidy, has become challenging for Simple Energy.
There were earlier reports of the company reaching out to certain customers to cancel their pre-bookings. According to government registration data, as of the current date, Simple Energy has sold around 50 units in the closing months of the year. The One e-scooter with the 5kWh battery has undergone a price increase, now standing at Rs 1,58,000, reflecting a rise of Rs 13,000 from its May 2023 launch price and an increase of Rs 48,000 from the initial ‘launch price’ of Rs 1.10 lakh announced in August 2021 during the opening of pre-bookings.
Despite the arrival of the more cost-effective Dot One, Simple Energy appears to be encouraging customers to choose this e-scooter. The company’s press release for the Dot One emphasizes that priority will be given to all One pre-booking holders who decide to switch to the Dot One. However, the primary allure of the Simple One was its substantial battery and competitive pricing compared to other rivals. With the reduction in battery size and a significant price increase, it remains to be seen how many customers will transition to the Dot One after an extended period of anticipation.
2023-12-29 16:14:07
