BGauss, a subsidiary of RR Global, has introduced a new category in the electric scooter market with the launch of the BGauss RUV 350. The term RUV stands for Rider Utility Vehicle, setting a new benchmark in the two-wheeler segment, akin to how MUV, SUV, and XUV cater to the passenger vehicle market. This electric scooter, made in India, is designed to meet the specific needs of Indian riders with a focus on utility, performance, and advanced features.
Variants and Pricing
The BGauss RUV 350 is available in three variants: RUV 350i EX, RUV 350 EX, and RUV 350 Max. The pricing starts at Rs 1.10 lakh for the base model, Rs 1.25 lakh for the mid variant, and Rs 1.35 lakh for the top-spec model, all ex-showroom prices. Deliveries are set to begin in July across over 120 dealerships nationwide, with bookings already open. The RUV 350 is being offered in 5 different colours- white, red, blue, black, grey.
Design and Build
The RUV 350 features a robust metal body with minimal plastic use, emphasizing durability and quality. It sports 16-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tires, designed to handle the diverse and often challenging road conditions in India. The scooter's step-through design, reminiscent of scooters popular in Southeast Asia, prioritizes functionality without compromising on aesthetics.
Performance and Range
At the heart of the BGauss RUV 350 is a 3.5kW in-wheel Hyper Drive motor, delivering a peak torque of 165Nm. This setup propels the scooter to a top speed of 75 km/h. The scooter is powered by a 3kWh lithium LFP battery, which is IP67 rated for water and dust resistance. The RUV 350 Max variant offers a range of 120 km on a single charge, while the EXi and EX variants provide a range of 90 km. Charging options include a 500W, 840W, and 1350W charger, with the fastest charger capable of recharging the battery to 80% in just 2 hours and 35 minutes.
Features and Technology
The BGauss RUV 350 is packed with modern features aimed at enhancing the riding experience. The mid and top variants come with a 5-inch TFT screen offering smart connectivity features such as turn-by-turn navigation, live vehicle tracking, geo-fencing, and call notifications.
Other notable features include cruise control, reverse mode, hill hold, regenerative braking, and document storage. The base variant, however, features a simpler LCD display without these advanced functionalities.
Practicality and Storage
Practicality is a key highlight of the RUV 350. It offers a total storage capacity of 26.7 liters, distributed across various compartments: 20 liters in the boot, 2.2 liters in the front pocket, and 4.5 liters under the foot floor. The scooter also includes a USB charging port, making it convenient for riders to charge their devices on the go.
Suspension and Braking
The RUV 350 is built on a micro-alloy tubular frame with a telescopic fork at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, ensuring a comfortable ride. Braking is handled by 130mm drum brakes on both ends, supported by a combi-braking system for enhanced safety.
Competitive Landscape
The BGauss RUV 350 competes with other prominent electric scooters in the market, such as the Ola S1 range, Ather 450S, TVS iQube, and Bajaj Chetak. Despite its competitive pricing and feature set, the RUV 350 aims to distinguish itself with its utility-focused design, robust build quality, and extensive storage options.
Evfy's Verdict
The launch of the BGauss RUV 350 marks a significant step forward in the electric scooter market in India. With its blend of advanced features, practical design, and robust performance, the RUV 350 is well-positioned to cater to the needs of urban commuters looking for a reliable, efficient, and feature-packed electric scooter. As deliveries commence in July, the BGauss RUV 350 is set to make a notable impact on the Indian electric vehicle landscape.
