Ola’s Roadster X hits the streets: 501-km range, brake-by-wire tech, and EV revolution redefined

Ola Electric Mobility Limited has officially entered a new chapter in its electric vehicle journey with the rollout of its highly anticipated Roadster X motorcycle from the Ola Futurefactory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu. The announcement, made on April 11, 2025, marked a major milestone not only for the company but also for India‘s broader electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. With a focus on cutting-edge design, smart connectivity, and extended battery range, the Roadster X series is poised to reshape how Indian consumers view electric motorcycling.

The company, which has rapidly scaled up to become India’s largest pure-play electric vehicle maker, declared that deliveries for the Roadster X series will begin this month across the country. Positioned as the next big leap in sustainable personal mobility, the launch comes at a time when the Indian two-wheeler segment is aggressively pivoting toward EV adoption, driven by rising fuel prices, supportive government incentives, and urban demand for low-emission transport alternatives.

What new technologies power the Roadster X series?

Ola’s Roadster X motorcycles introduce several segment-first features that could potentially influence design and engineering standards across the EV two-wheeler sector. A standout among these is the patented brake-by-wire technology paired with single-channel ABS, which is a first for this segment. Unlike traditional braking systems, the brake-by-wire setup electronically controls braking input, allowing for faster response times, better modulation, and increased safety.

Another major innovation lies in the flat cable architecture integrated within the motorcycle’s powertrain. This marks a first for any electric motorcycle on the Indian market. The flat cables replace bulkier wiring, enabling tighter packaging, reducing weight, and improving heat dissipation. These factors contribute directly to improved durability and longer operational life—key concerns for Indian consumers navigating varied road conditions and climates.

Powering the motorcycle is a mid-drive motor integrated with a motor control unit (MCU), optimised for better torque management and smoother acceleration. Ola has also incorporated its proprietary MoveOS 5 software, which provides advanced features such as cruise control, reverse mode, and smart regeneration, giving riders a more responsive and intuitive experience.

How does the Roadster X stack up on battery innovation and performance?

At the core of the Roadster X series is a robust battery architecture built for high endurance and simplified maintenance. All models in the series come with IP67-certified waterproof and dustproof battery systems, suitable for India’s monsoon-prone regions and dust-heavy terrains. In addition, Ola has adopted advanced wire bonding technology for cell connections and designed a serviceable Battery Management System (BMS)—a rare offering in the EV two-wheeler category.

This modular and repair-friendly battery approach is especially noteworthy in the context of India’s fragmented EV servicing infrastructure. It enables cost-effective maintenance and extends the battery’s lifecycle, reducing total ownership costs—a critical factor in market penetration.

The top-tier Roadster X+ variant features the 9.1 kWh battery using Ola’s proprietary 4680 Bharat Cell. This setup offers an unrivalled range of 501 km on a single charge, setting a new benchmark for long-range electric motorcycles in India. Given that range anxiety remains a key deterrent in EV adoption, this figure could prove decisive for Ola in attracting mainstream motorcycle buyers to the electric fold.

How is Ola Electric positioning the Roadster X on pricing?

Ola has taken a tiered approach to pricing, offering a range of battery capacities to appeal to a broad consumer base. The Roadster X 2.5 kWh variant is priced at ₹84,999, while the 3.5 kWh and 4.5 kWh versions are priced at ₹94,999 and ₹1,04,999, respectively. The Roadster X+ 4.5 kWh comes in at ₹1,14,999, while the premium Roadster X+ 9.1 kWh is priced at ₹1,84,999.

This pricing structure targets multiple segments—from budget-conscious urban riders to long-distance commuters—and aligns with Ola’s direct-to-customer sales model. By eliminating dealership overheads and operating over 400 company-owned stores nationwide, Ola is positioned to pass on cost benefits directly to consumers.

Furthermore, the pricing appears competitive when compared with internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles in similar performance brackets, especially when factoring in the lower running costs of electric vehicles. The tiered battery options also make it easier for riders to transition incrementally into the EV ecosystem based on their commuting needs.

How does Ola’s Futurefactory drive EV innovation and scale?

The Roadster X rollout was conducted from Ola’s Futurefactory in Krishnagiri, a cornerstone in the company’s integrated EV manufacturing strategy. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to be the world’s largest two-wheeler EV plant when operating at full capacity. The Futurefactory not only manufactures vehicles but also key components like battery packs, motor controllers, and power electronics.

In parallel, Ola is investing significantly in cell-level innovation through its Battery Innovation Centre (BIC) in Bengaluru, which is dedicated to research and development of next-generation energy storage technologies. The combination of in-house component manufacturing and battery R&D provides Ola with a vertically integrated supply chain, reducing dependence on external vendors and increasing control over quality, cost, and speed to market.

Ola has also built a presence in the UK and US markets through its R&D teams, focusing on software engineering, power electronics, and mechanical design. This global footprint helps the company remain competitive in an evolving global EV ecosystem, even as it retains its manufacturing and sales base in India.

What is the stock market sentiment around Ola Electric?

As of April 12, 2025, Ola Electric’s stock (NSE: OLAELEC) closed at ₹50.20, reflecting a modest gain of 0.18% from the previous trading session. Despite the mild rebound, the company’s share price has plummeted nearly 41% since the start of the year, underscoring investor caution amid operational and regulatory headwinds. The stock has oscillated between a 52-week high of ₹157.53 and a low of ₹45.35, suggesting continued volatility.

Investor sentiment has been impacted by a recent insolvency petition filed against Ola Electric Technologies—one of its subsidiaries—by Rosmerta Digital Services over alleged payment defaults. In addition, discrepancies reported between Ola’s claimed sales and actual vehicle registration data have triggered regulatory scrutiny, further weighing on market confidence.

From an analytical standpoint, sentiment remains mixed. Of the seven analysts covering the stock, two have issued strong buy calls, one has rated it a buy, while two remain neutral and two have recommended selling. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 41.69 indicates the stock is nearing oversold territory, which could make it attractive to value-seeking investors depending on upcoming developments.

Investment Insight: While Ola’s innovation-led strategy and product launches such as the Roadster X inspire optimism, current legal challenges and regulatory uncertainty suggest that caution is warranted. Long-term investors might view the stock as a “watchlist candidate” with potential upside once these headwinds are resolved. For now, analysts suggest a “hold” stance until further clarity emerges on financial stability and order fulfilment.

How does the Roadster X support India’s transition to electric mobility?

The Roadster X series aligns well with the Indian government’s broader goals under the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) policy, which encourages EV adoption through subsidies and tax benefits. Ola’s emphasis on localisation, component integration, and battery efficiency fits directly into national ambitions to reduce crude oil dependency and decarbonise transport.

By offering high-performance electric motorcycles with extended range and smart features, Ola is helping shift the perception of EVs from niche, short-distance city commuters to mainstream vehicles suitable for everyday use. This evolution may help drive deeper market penetration, provided pricing remains competitive and infrastructure—such as charging stations—keeps pace with demand.