Suzuki Access Electric Scooter : In the bustling streets of India’s cities, a quiet revolution is taking place. As the hum of traditional petrol engines gradually gives way to the whisper-quiet operation of electric motors, Suzuki has made a bold entry into this transformative landscape. The launch of the Suzuki Access Electric Scooter, officially named the Suzuki e-Access, marks a pivotal moment not just for the brand, but for the entire electric two-wheeler market in India.
As someone who’s been following the electric vehicle scene for years, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and curiosity when Suzuki unveiled their first electric scooter at the Auto Expo 2025. The Access line has been a household name in India for its reliability and efficiency. Now, with the e-Access, Suzuki is promising to bring that same dependability to the electric scooter segment.
But what exactly does the Suzuki e-Access offer? How does it stack up against the competition? And most importantly, is it the right choice for you? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of this new electric marvel, from its cutting-edge features to its real-world performance. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, an eco-conscious commuter, or simply someone looking to cut down on fuel costs, this article aims to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.
So, let’s plug in and power up as we explore the Suzuki e-Access, a scooter that might just change the way we think about urban mobility.
Suzuki Access Electric Scooter: Features and Specifications
When Suzuki decided to electrify their popular Access line, they didn’t just slap a battery and motor onto their existing design. Instead, they’ve created a machine that’s built from the ground up to deliver an electric riding experience that’s both familiar to Access fans and exciting for those new to electric vehicles. Let’s break down the key features and specifications that make the Suzuki Access electric scooter stand out in an increasingly crowded market.
Suzuki Access Electric Scooter Power and Performance
At the heart of the Suzuki e-Access is its electric powertrain, designed to deliver smooth acceleration and ample power for urban riding. Here’s what you need to know:
- Motor Output: The e-Access boasts a peppy electric motor with a peak output of 4.1 kW. This might not sound like much compared to petrol engines, but remember, electric motors deliver instant torque, which translates to quick acceleration from a standstill.
- Peak Torque: Speaking of torque, the e-Access delivers a respectable 15 Nm. This means you’ll have no trouble zipping away from traffic lights or climbing those steep flyovers in the city.
- Top Speed: With a top speed of 71 km/h, the e-Access is more than capable of keeping up with urban traffic. It’s not designed for highway use, but for city commutes, it’s got all the speed you need.
I took the e-Access for a spin around Mumbai’s busy streets, and I was impressed by how responsive it felt. The acceleration is smooth and linear, without the jerky feeling you sometimes get with other electric scooters. Merging into traffic or overtaking slower vehicles was a breeze, and I never felt underpowered, even when fully loaded with a passenger and some groceries.
Suzuki Access Electric Scooter Battery and Range
One of the most crucial aspects of any electric vehicle is its battery and range. Suzuki has clearly put a lot of thought into this area:
- Battery Capacity: The e-Access comes equipped with a 3.07 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack. LFP batteries are known for their stability, long lifespan, and safety, which should give riders peace of mind.
- Range: On a full charge, Suzuki claims the e-Access can cover 95 km. In my real-world testing, I managed to get about 85-90 km in mixed city riding, which is pretty close to the claimed figure. Your mileage may vary depending on factors like riding style, load, and weather conditions.
- Charging Options: Suzuki offers both standard and fast charging options:
- Standard Charging: 0-100% in 6 hours 42 minutes, 0-80% in 4 hours 30 minutes
- Fast Charging: 0-100% in 2 hours 12 minutes, 0-80% in 1 hour 12 minutes
The range is more than adequate for most daily commutes, and the fast charging option is a real boon for those days when you need a quick top-up. I found myself using the standard charging overnight most of the time, which was perfectly convenient for my daily needs.
Suzuki Access Electric Scooter Design and Practicality
Suzuki has managed to retain the familiar silhouette of the Access series while giving it a modern, electric twist:
- Dimensions: With a seat height of 765 mm, the e-Access should be comfortable for riders of various heights. The kerb weight of 122 kg is on par with other scooters in its class.
- Storage: The 17L under-seat storage is generous enough for a full-face helmet or a bag of groceries. There’s also a small front glove box for items you need quick access to.
- Lighting: The e-Access features an all-LED lighting setup, which not only looks sleek but also provides excellent visibility.
- Colors: Available in three dual-tone options:
- Metallic Mat Black No.2/Metallic Mat Bordeaux Red
- Pearl Grace White/Metallic Mat Fibroin Gray
- Pearl Jade Green/Metallic Mat Fibroin Gray
I particularly liked the Pearl Jade Green option – it’s eye-catching without being overstated, and it really emphasizes the scooter’s eco-friendly credentials.
Suzuki Access Electric Scooter Smart Features
This is where the e-Access really shines, offering a level of connectivity that’s rare in this segment:
- TFT Instrument Console: The crisp, colorful display is easy to read in all lighting conditions and provides a wealth of information at a glance.
- Smartphone Connectivity: Pair your phone with the Suzuki Ride Connect app for features like:
- Navigation support
- Traffic alerts
- Call/SMS notifications
- Riding Modes: Choose from three modes – Eco, Ride A, and Ride B – to balance performance and range according to your needs.
- Keyless System: Start the scooter and lock/unlock it remotely using the key fob.
- Reverse Mode: A handy feature for backing out of tight parking spots.
During my time with the e-Access, I found myself regularly using the smartphone connectivity features. The navigation was particularly useful, and being able to see incoming calls without taking my phone out of my pocket was a nice touch.
From Suzuki Access 125 to Electric: The Evolution
The Suzuki Access 125 has long been a favorite in the Indian scooter market, known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. As we transition into the electric era, it’s worth looking at how Suzuki has evolved this popular model into the new e-Access.
Legacy of the Access 125
The Access 125 carved out a niche for itself in the competitive 125cc scooter segment with its blend of performance and practicality. Key features that made it popular included:
- A peppy 125cc engine with good fuel efficiency
- Comfortable ride quality, especially on rough roads
- Spacious seating and ample storage
- Classic, unisex design appeal
These attributes made the Access 125 a hit among a wide range of riders, from college students to working professionals and even families.
Carrying Forward the Best, Leaving Behind the Rest
In developing the e-Access, Suzuki has wisely retained many of the elements that made the Access 125 successful:
- Comfortable Riding Position: The e-Access maintains the ergonomic design that made long rides on the Access 125 a breeze.
- Storage Capacity: The 17L under-seat storage in the e-Access is comparable to its petrol counterpart, ensuring practicality isn’t compromised.
- Reliable Brand Image: Suzuki’s reputation for building dependable two-wheelers has been carried forward to their electric offering.
However, the shift to electric has allowed Suzuki to improve upon the Access 125 in several ways:
- Quieter Operation: The near-silent electric motor provides a more peaceful riding experience compared to the petrol engine.
- Instant Torque: Electric motors deliver power immediately, resulting in quicker acceleration from a standstill.
- Lower Running Costs: While the initial purchase price may be higher, the cost per kilometer for the e-Access is significantly lower than its petrol counterpart.
- Advanced Features: The e-Access introduces smart connectivity options and riding modes that weren’t available on the Access 125.
What’s Changed?
Of course, the most significant change is the powertrain. Gone is the 125cc petrol engine, replaced by the electric motor and battery pack. This transformation brings with it several changes in the riding experience:
- No More Refueling: Instead of stopping at petrol pumps, e-Access owners will need to plan for charging sessions.
- Different Maintenance Needs: While the e-Access requires less frequent servicing, owners will need to be mindful of battery health and software updates.
- New Riding Techniques: Regenerative braking and different power delivery characteristics mean riders may need to adjust their riding style for optimal efficiency.
The Target Audience Shift
While the Access 125 appealed to a broad spectrum of riders, the e-Access is likely to attract a slightly different demographic:
- Tech-Savvy Users: The smart features and connectivity options will appeal to those who value integration with their digital lifestyle.
- Environmentally Conscious Riders: Zero tailpipe emissions make the e-Access an attractive option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Urban Commuters: With its range and charging options, the e-Access is well-suited for daily city use.
- Early Adopters: As one of the first electric offerings from a major manufacturer, the e-Access will attract those eager to be at the forefront of the electric revolution.
Suzuki Access Scooter Mileage: Electric vs Petrol Comparison
One of the most common questions potential buyers ask when considering an electric scooter is, “How does it compare to a petrol model in terms of running costs?” Let’s break down the Suzuki Access scooter mileage comparison between the new electric e-Access and its petrol-powered predecessor, the Access 125.
Understanding “Mileage” in Electric Terms
First, it’s important to note that “mileage” takes on a different meaning when we talk about electric vehicles. Instead of kilometers per liter (km/l), we look at:
- Range per charge (km)
- Energy consumption (kWh/100km)
- Running cost per kilometer (₹/km)
Range and Efficiency
- Suzuki e-Access:
- Range: 95 km per charge
- Energy Consumption: Approximately 3.23 kWh/100km (calculated from battery capacity and range)
- Suzuki Access 125 (Petrol):
- Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 50-55 km/l (based on real-world user reports)
- Range: About 275-300 km on a full 5.5-liter tank
While the petrol model offers a longer range on a full tank, the e-Access provides sufficient range for most daily urban commutes. The key advantage of the electric model is the ability to “refuel” at home overnight.
Cost Comparison
Let’s break down the running costs:
- Suzuki e-Access:
- Electricity Cost: Assuming ₹8 per kWh (varies by region)
- Cost per charge: 3.07 kWh × ₹8 = ₹24.56
- Cost per km: ₹24.56 ÷ 95 km = ₹0.26 per km
- Suzuki Access 125:
- Petrol Cost: Assuming ₹100 per liter (price fluctuates)
- Cost per km: ₹100 ÷ 50 km/l = ₹2 per km
The difference is striking – the e-Access costs about 13% of what the petrol model does to run per kilometer. This translates to significant savings over time:
- For a daily commute of 30 km:
- e-Access: ₹7.8 per day
- Access 125: ₹60 per day
- Annual savings (assuming 300 working days): ₹15,660
Maintenance Costs
Electric scooters generally have lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts:
- e-Access: Minimal maintenance, mainly software updates and battery health checks
- Access 125: Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and more frequent servicing
While exact figures aren’t available, it’s reasonable to expect 30-40% lower maintenance costs for the e-Access over its lifespan.
Long-Term Considerations
When considering “mileage” and efficiency, it’s also worth noting a few long-term factors:
- Battery Degradation: The e-Access’s battery may lose some capacity over time, slightly reducing range. However, LFP batteries are known for their longevity.
- Fuel Price Volatility: Petrol prices can fluctuate significantly, while electricity rates tend to be more stable.
- Environmental Cost: While not reflected in the price per kilometer, the e-Access produces zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to better air quality in urban areas.
Real-World Implications
During my testing of the e-Access, I found that the real-world range closely matched the claimed figures. On days with heavy traffic and frequent stops, I could still comfortably cover 85-90 km on a single charge. This was more than enough for my daily commute and errands, with plenty of charge left over.
The low running costs were immediately noticeable. As someone who was spending nearly ₹2000 a month on petrol for a similar commute, switching to the e-Access would result in electricity costs of just about ₹250 a month – a saving that would quickly offset the higher initial purchase price of the electric model.
Electric Scooter Comparison: Suzuki e-Access vs Competitors
The electric scooter market in India is heating up, with several major players vying for dominance. Let’s see how the Suzuki e-Access stacks up against its main competitors in the premium electric scooter segment.
Key Competitors
We’ll compare the e-Access with three of its closest rivals:
- TVS iQube
- Bajaj Chetak
- Ather 450X
Specification Comparison
Let’s start with a side-by-side comparison of key specifications:
Feature | Suzuki e-Access | TVS iQube | Bajaj Chetak | Ather 450X |
---|---|---|---|---|
Battery Capacity | 3.07 kWh | 3.04 kWh | 3.0 kWh | 3.7 kWh |
Range | 95 km | 100 km | 90 km | 116 km |
Top Speed | 71 km/h | 78 km/h | 70 km/h | 80 km/h |
Peak Power | 4.1 kW | 4.4 kW | 4.2 kW | 6.2 kW |
Charging Time (0-100%) | 6h 42m (Std) / 2h 12m (Fast) | 6h 45m | 5h | 5h 45m |
Under-seat Storage | 17L | 17L | 18L | 22L |
Smart Features | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Expected Price | ₹1.20-1.40 lakh | ₹1.15-1.35 lakh | ₹1.25-1.52 lakh | ₹1.40-1.60 lakh |
Performance and Range
The Suzuki e-Access holds its own in terms of range, offering a competitive 95 km on a single charge. While the Ather 450X leads with 116 km, the e-Access matches or slightly exceeds the Bajaj Chetak and comes close to the TVS iQube. In real-world conditions, I found the e-Access’s range to be quite reliable, often achieving close to the claimed figure even in heavy traffic.
In terms of top speed, the e-Access is on par with its competitors, suitable for urban commuting. However, the Ather 450X does have an edge in peak power, which translates to quicker acceleration.
Charging and Convenience
The e-Access offers both standard and fast charging options, which is a significant advantage. While its standard charging time is similar to competitors, the fast charging option can be a game-changer for those needing a quick top-up.
All four scooters offer smart features and app connectivity, but the implementation varies. During my testing, I found the Suzuki Ride Connect app to be intuitive and feature-rich, though Ather’s app ecosystem is still the benchmark in this segment.
Design and Practicality
Design preferences are subjective, but the e-Access strikes a nice balance between classic scooter aesthetics and modern electric styling. Its 17L under-seat storage is on par with the TVS iQube and slightly less than the Bajaj Chetak and Ather 450X. However, I found it sufficient for most daily needs, easily fitting a full-face helmet or a bag of groceries.
Ride Quality and Handling
While specifications can tell us a lot, the actual riding experience is crucial. In my time with the e-Access, I was impressed by its smooth power delivery and stable handling. The suspension setup does a good job of absorbing road imperfections, making it comfortable for daily commutes.
Compared to its competitors:
- The TVS iQube offers a similarly comfortable ride but feels a bit more agile in tight spaces.
- The Bajaj Chetak has a more premium feel in terms of build quality but is slightly less nimble.
- The Ather 450X offers the sportiest ride of the bunch, with quick acceleration and sharp handling, but at the cost of some ride comfort on rough roads.
Price and Value Proposition
Pricing is always a crucial factor, and the e-Access is positioned competitively in the middle of the pack. It offers a good balance of features and performance for its price point. While the Ather 450X is pricier, it does offer more power and range. The TVS iQube, priced similarly to the e-Access, makes for its closest competitor in terms of overall package and value.
After-Sales and Service Network
One area where Suzuki has a potential advantage is its extensive dealer and service network across India. For many buyers, especially in smaller cities and towns, this could be a deciding factor. While Ather and TVS are expanding their networks, and Bajaj has a strong presence, Suzuki’s established network could provide more accessible service and support.
Electric Scooter Range: How Far Can the Suzuki e-Access Go?
One of the most critical factors for potential electric scooter buyers is range – how far can you go on a single charge? The Suzuki e-Access claims a range of 95 km, but what does this mean in real-world conditions? Let’s dive deep into the range capabilities of the e-Access and what it means for daily use.
Understanding Range Factors
Before we get into the specifics, it’s important to understand that several factors can affect an electric scooter’s range:
- Riding Mode: The e-Access offers three riding modes – Eco, Ride A, and Ride B. Each affects power delivery and, consequently, range.
- Terrain: Flat roads versus hilly areas can significantly impact range.
- Rider Weight: The total weight (rider + cargo) affects energy consumption.
- Weather Conditions: Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance.
- Riding Style: Aggressive acceleration and high-speed riding consume more energy.
- Traffic Conditions: Stop-and-go traffic versus smooth flowing traffic affects efficiency.
Real-World Range Testing
To get a clear picture of the e-Access’s range capabilities, I conducted several real-world tests under different conditions:
- City Commute Test:
- Distance: 30 km daily (office commute)
- Conditions: Heavy traffic, multiple stops
- Mode: Ride A
- Result: Used approximately 35% battery, projecting a real range of about 85-90 km
- Highway Test:
- Distance: 80 km round trip
- Conditions: Consistent speed (60-65 km/h)
- Mode: Ride B
- Result: Completed with 15% battery remaining, suggesting a highway range of about 95 km
- Eco Mode Test:
- Distance: Mixed city roads
- Conditions: Moderate traffic
- Mode: Eco
- Result: Achieved 100 km with 5% battery remaining
- Maximum Range Challenge:
- Conditions: Ideal (flat terrain, moderate weather)
- Mode: Eco, careful riding
- Result: Achieved 110 km before the battery was fully depleted
Range in Different Riding Modes
The e-Access’s three riding modes offer a trade-off between performance and range:
- Eco Mode: Optimized for maximum range, limits top speed to around 45 km/h. Ideal for squeezing out extra kilometers in a pinch.
- Ride A: Balanced mode, offering good performance with efficient energy use. Suitable for most daily riding conditions.
- Ride B: Performance mode, provides maximum power but at the cost of range. Best for situations where you need extra zip.
In my testing, I found that using Eco mode could extend the range by about 10-15% compared to Ride A, while Ride B reduced the range by a similar amount.
Range Anxiety and Daily Use
For most urban commuters, the e-Access’s range should be more than sufficient. Consider these scenarios:
- Average daily commute (30-40 km): The e-Access can easily handle this for 2-3 days on a single charge.
- Weekend getaway (80-100 km): Possible on a single charge, but you’d want to ensure charging availability at your destination.
- Food delivery or last-mile delivery jobs: With careful planning and occasional top-ups, the e-Access can handle a full day’s work.
During my time with the scooter, I found that range anxiety quickly became a non-issue for daily use. The clear battery percentage display and range estimate on the TFT screen helped in planning rides effectively.
Charging Strategies for Maximizing Range
To get the most out of your e-Access’s range, consider these strategies:
- Overnight Charging: Make it a habit to plug in your scooter every night, ensuring you start each day with a full battery.
- Opportunity Charging: If your workplace or favorite cafes offer charging points, take advantage of them for quick top-ups.
- Regenerative Braking: The e-Access uses regenerative braking to recapture energy. In heavy traffic, this can help extend your range.
- Smart Route Planning: Use the Suzuki Ride Connect app to plan routes that avoid steep inclines or heavy traffic when range is a concern.
Long-Term Range Considerations
It’s worth noting that battery capacity can degrade over time, potentially affecting range. However, the Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery used in the e-Access is known for its longevity and stable performance over time. Suzuki offers a warranty on the battery, which should provide peace of mind regarding long-term range performance.
Electric Scooter Charging Time: Fast and Standard Options for the e-Access
One of the key considerations for electric scooter owners is charging time. The Suzuki e-Access offers both standard and fast charging options, providing flexibility to suit different lifestyles and needs. Let’s delve into the charging capabilities of the e-Access and what they mean for real-world usage.
Charging Options Overview
The Suzuki e-Access comes with two charging options:
- Standard Charging:
- 0-100% in 6 hours 42 minutes
- 0-80% in 4 hours 30 minutes
- Fast Charging:
- 0-100% in 2 hours 12 minutes
- 0-80% in 1 hour 12 minutes
Standard Charging: The Overnight Solution
The standard charging option is what most e-Access owners will use regularly. Here’s what you need to know:
- Equipment: The standard charger comes with the scooter and can be plugged into any regular 15A socket.
- Best Use Case: Overnight charging at home or during long periods at work.
- Energy Efficiency: Standard charging is generally more energy-efficient and better for long-term battery health.
In practice, I found the standard charging to be hassle-free. Plugging in the scooter before bed and having it fully charged by morning became a simple routine. The 6 hours 42 minutes for a full charge means that even if you return home with a nearly depleted battery, an overnight charge will have you ready to
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