Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their eco-friendly and cost-effective nature. Nepal, in particular, has seen a rise in the use of electric scooters, as they offer an easy and efficient way to navigate through the busy streets of Kathmandu and other major cities. If you’re thinking of buying one, here are some things you should consider while buying an electric scooter in Nepal.

• Price and Value
• Range 
• Battery Life
• Charging Time
• Charging Stations
• Style and Design
• Tires
• Motor Power
• Power Modes
• Build
• Extra Features
• After Sales Support and Warranty

First, Determine Your Needs

When purchasing an electric scooter, it’s crucial to take your riding habits into account. Electric scooters come in various shapes and sizes, and different models are designed for different purposes.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself to understand your riding needs. 

• Do you plan to use your scooter for quick commutes around the city or for longer trips? 
• Are you looking to transport heavy items or passengers? 
• What type of road will you be riding the most? Off road or plain pitch roads?

By answering these questions, you will be able to determine your primary usage of the electric scooter. Now you just have to find the right scooter that meets your needs. 

NIU offers a diverse range of models that cater to various riding habits. For instance, the NIU N-series is an excellent option for short commutes, while the M-series is ideal for longer trips.

Price and Value

Let’s talk about the budget. You want to invest in a scooter that offers good value for your money. Not all electric scooters will have all the features that you may need. Usually the more expensive, the more range, battery life, motor power and features you get. So, while considering buying an electric scooter, if you are on a budget, make a priority of things you need, then weigh if the price of the scooter is good for the value you will receive.    

Range

When considering buying a scooter, looking for range is an essential factor to keep in mind. Range refers to the distance that the scooter can travel on a single charge, and it can affect several aspects of your scooter’s usage. 

If you plan to use the scooter for commuting or longer trips, a longer range will be more convenient as you won’t need to recharge the battery as frequently. Additionally, a longer range can save you money on transportation costs over time. Lastly, a longer range can provide an extra layer of safety, ensuring that you won’t run out of battery. 

However, longer range electric scooters often mean that they might be costlier. Therefore, it is essential to choose a scooter with a range that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Battery Life

Electric scooters are powered by rechargeable batteries, and the battery life determines how long you can ride the scooter before needing to recharge it. You don’t want to get stranded in the middle of a busy street with a dead battery. So, the battery life of an electric scooter is an essential factor to consider.

Battery life directly affects performance and cost of ownership. Electric scooter with a high quality battery will perform consistently, but the performance of the one with an average battery might suffer when the battery level is down. 

A low-quality battery may require frequent replacements, which can add up to significant expenses over time. On the other hand, a high-quality battery can last for several years, reducing the need for replacements and saving you money in the long run.

Charging Time

You don’t want to spend hours waiting for your scooter to charge. The charging time of an electric scooter varies depending on the model and battery size, but it typically ranges from 3 to 8 hours. Some models may offer faster charging times than others.

If you use your electric scooter just to get to work or school and to come back home everyday, you might not mind charging it overnight. So, electric scooters with slower charging time may suffice you. 

However, if you plan to use your electric scooter for running errands and for an extended period of time, you might need an electric scooter with a faster charging battery to ensure that you can complete your journey without running out of battery.

NIU electric scooters offer fast-charging capabilities, which means you can charge your scooter in just a few hours.

Charging Stations

Most electric scooters now-a-days can be charged anywhere with a normal electrical circuit, while some may need to be charged in a charging station. 

In Nepal, you may not find such charging stations when we go outside of the city area and in the city as well, there are very few available. It is recommended that you choose an electric scooter that can be charged in your home or anywhere you like. 

Design and Style

Design and style are also important factors to consider when buying an electric scooter. You want a scooter that not only looks good but also suits your personality. And among the sea of varieties of electric scooters, you’ll find the one that is fit for you.

Motor Power

The motor power determines the speed and acceleration of the scooter and its ability to climb hills and navigate challenging terrain. High motor power allows higher top speeds, good pickup and quicker acceleration, therefore is good for commuting or travelling longer distances. 

On the other hand, a less powerful motor reduces your scooter’s overall efficiency and performance. If you are looking for a scooter to do small tasks, opt for a less powerful motor as it will be cheaper. 

Power Modes

Electric scooters typically come with different power modes, such as eco mode, normal mode, and sport mode, which allow riders to adjust the level of power and speed according to their needs. This helps you in energy saving and tailor your scooter according to your need. So, ask your dealer if the electric scooter you are considering buying has power modes or not. 

Build

Every component of an electric scooter – frame, wheels, brakes, and motor, all work together to provide us with a smooth and safe ride. If build quality of any of these components is compromised, you are at risk of accidents. And in roads of Nepal with undetectable potholes and small alleys everywhere, you have to check if the build quality of all your electric scooter parts are solid. 

Extra Features 

Most electric scooters can provide a long list of features compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts. This is because they are powered by a battery. Some things you must be on a lookout for: 

• Easy-to-read Display
• Charging ports
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Navigation
• Padded seats
• Storage compartments 
• Large boot space  

These additional features can greatly improve the functionality and usability of your electric scooter. 

After Sales Support and Warranty

Last but not the least, always check their warranty. Electric scooters can last for several years with proper maintenance, and having good after-sales support and warranty can ensure that you can enjoy your scooter for a long time without worrying about major repair costs. The longer warranty you get, the better cost-effective your investment will be. 

In summary, buying an electric scooter in Nepal requires careful consideration of several factors. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose an electric scooter that aligns with your preferred riding style, budget, and requirements.