Ampere Magnus : The electric vehicle (EV) market in India has been rapidly evolving, with a growing number of players vying for a slice of the pie.
Among the latest entrants is the Ampere Magnus, a feature-packed electric scooter that aims to redefine the urban commuting experience.
Launched in November 2024, the Ampere Magnus is the latest offering from the Coimbatore-based electric two-wheeler manufacturer, Ampere.
The scooter boasts a striking design that blends functionality and style, making it an appealing choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Ampere Magnus Sleek and Stylish Design
The Ampere Magnus immediately catches the eye with its sleek and modern silhouette.
The scooter’s front fascia features a distinctive headlamp cluster, complemented by LED daytime running lights (DRLs) that add a touch of sophistication.
Available in a range of eye-catching colors, including Graphite Black, Metallic Red, Galactic Grey, Ocean Blue, and Glacial White, the Magnus offers something to suit every taste.
The well-sculpted body panels and subtle branding on the side panels contribute to the scooter’s premium look, belying its affordable price tag.
One of the standout design features is the spacious floorboard, which provides ample legroom for riders of various heights, enhancing comfort during long rides and adding to the scooter’s practicality for daily commutes.
Ampere Magnus Reliable Performance and Range
At the heart of the Ampere Magnus lies its electric powertrain, which has been engineered to deliver reliable performance for urban use.
The scooter comes in two primary variants: the Magnus LT and the Magnus EX, each catering to slightly different needs and preferences.
The Magnus EX, the more powerful variant, is equipped with a 1,200-watt BLDC (Brushless DC) motor.
This motor provides enough grunt to propel the scooter from 0 to 40 km/h in under 10 seconds, with a claimed top speed of 53 km/h.
While this may not seem blistering fast compared to petrol scooters, it’s more than adequate for navigating busy city streets and keeping up with urban traffic flow.
One of the most crucial aspects of any electric vehicle is its range, and the Magnus doesn’t disappoint in this department.
The EX variant boasts a claimed range of up to 121 kilometers on a single charge, which is impressive for its class.
This range is achieved thanks to a 60V/28Ah lithium-ion battery pack, which not only provides good range but also contributes to the scooter’s relatively light weight.
The Magnus LT, while slightly less powerful, still offers commendable performance for its intended use.
Both variants come with two riding modes – Eco and City – allowing riders to prioritize either range or performance based on their daily needs.
There’s also a reverse mode, which is particularly handy when maneuvering in tight parking spaces.
Ampere Magnus Convenient Charging and User-Friendly Features
One of the potential hurdles for electric vehicle adoption is the concern over charging times and infrastructure.
The Ampere Magnus addresses these issues to some extent with its user-friendly charging system.
The scooter can be fully charged in approximately 6-7 hours, which means it can be conveniently charged overnight or during work hours.
A standout feature of the Magnus is its removable battery pack. This allows users to charge the battery indoors, which is particularly useful for those who may not have access to charging points in their parking areas.
However, it’s worth noting that the process of removing the battery involves unlocking a lid, removing screws, and a metal strap, which some users might find a bit cumbersome.
To alleviate range anxiety, Ampere has incorporated a “Limp Home” feature in the Magnus.
This clever addition allows riders to travel up to 10 kilometers when the battery level drops to 10 percent, ensuring that you’re less likely to be stranded with a depleted battery.
In terms of features, the Ampere Magnus doesn’t skimp. The scooter comes equipped with a digital instrument cluster that provides essential information such as speed, battery level, and estimated range.
Some variants also offer turn-by-turn navigation functionality, adding an extra layer of convenience for urban riders.
Other noteworthy features include a USB charging port, LED lighting, a spacious underseat storage compartment, a side stand sensor, and keyless entry on select variants.
These features, while not groundbreaking, add significant value to the overall package and enhance the day-to-day usability of the scooter.
Ampere Magnus Ride and Handling
The Ampere Magnus is designed with urban commuting in mind, and its ride and handling characteristics reflect this focus.
The scooter is equipped with telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers, which do a decent job of soaking up road imperfections and providing a comfortable ride.
The lightweight nature of the scooter, coupled with its low center of gravity (thanks to the battery placement), makes it nimble and easy to maneuver through congested city traffic. The 10-inch wheels, while not the largest in the segment, offer a good balance between stability and agility.
Braking duties are handled by 130mm drum brakes on both wheels, coupled with a Combined Braking System (CBS) for enhanced safety.
While disc brakes would have been a welcome addition, especially on the front wheel, the current setup provides adequate stopping power for the scooter’s intended use case.
Ampere Magnus Competitive Pricing and Positioning
The Ampere Magnus is priced competitively, with the Magnus EX variant starting at Rs. 94,900 (ex-showroom) in India.
This price point positions the scooter as a viable alternative to other electric scooters in the market, such as the Bounce Infinity E.1, BGauss C12i, Lectrix EV LXS G 2.0, Okinawa Ridge, and Ola S1X+.
For those looking for a more affordable option, the Magnus LT variant is available at Rs. 79,900 (ex-showroom), making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers.
The scooter also competes with petrol-powered models like the Honda Activa 125 and Suzuki Access 125 in the same price range.
Ampere Magnus Conclusion
The Ampere Magnus is a compelling addition to the electric scooter segment in India.
With its striking design, reliable performance, impressive range, and user-friendly features, the scooter offers a compelling package for urban commuters seeking a sustainable and convenient mode of transportation.
As the electric vehicle market continues to evolve, the Ampere Magnus stands out as a well-rounded offering that balances affordability, practicality, and environmental responsibility.
Its arrival is sure to shake up the competition and provide consumers with a fresh alternative in the ever-expanding world of electric two-wheelers.
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