In an industry crowded with new electric two-wheelers, Tesseract Mobility has successfully introduced a model that stands out for its innovation. The Tesseract Fold, unveiled in Bengaluru, combines a sleek, Japanese-inspired origami folding design with a game-changing battery-swapping system. This unique combination addresses two major concerns of urban commuters: lack of space for storage and charging infrastructure. With the promise of a practical solution, the Tesseract Fold could be a game-changer for India’s e-scooter market.
A Revolutionary Folding Mechanism
In cities like Bengaluru, where space is a luxury, Tesseract’s engineers have designed a scooter that’s as compact as it is functional. The Fold can collapse to half its size in just 12 seconds, making it easy to store in tight spaces, whether at home or at work. The folding mechanism is sturdy and well-built, utilizing sailing-inspired locking joints that only become more secure over time. Additionally, the handlebars fold sideways rather than down, eliminating the scuff marks that usually mar the scooter’s bodywork.
Performance
Beyond its unique design, the Tesseract Fold delivers solid performance. The base model comes with a 2.5 kWh battery, offering an impressive 85 km range on a single charge, while the Pro variant boasts a 5 kWh battery with a 170 km range. In real-world conditions, the base model performed well with about 75 km on a single charge despite aggressive riding.
The scooter’s top speed is capped at 80 km/h, which is ideal for urban commutes where speeds rarely exceed 60 km/h. One standout feature is the modular battery system, which allows for a quick swap at one of Tesseract’s designated stations. The company has rolled out 200 swap stations in Bengaluru and plans to expand to Delhi and Mumbai. For ₹1,499 per month, users can enjoy unlimited battery swaps, significantly reducing the cost of home charging.
Riding Experience
Test riding the Fold through Bengaluru’s infamous traffic, the scooter impresses with its stability and agility. The low-mounted batteries create a balanced center of gravity, and the scooter’s adjustable suspension makes navigating rough roads much more comfortable. Three riding modes – Eco, City, and Sport – provide varying levels of performance, with the Sport mode offering exhilarating acceleration.
The regenerative braking system is particularly noteworthy. Unlike many other e-scooters, which often have grabby brakes, the Fold’s regenerative system is smooth and progressive, adapting to the rider’s style over time.
Smart Technology
Tesseract’s approach to tech is refreshing in its practicality. The 7-inch TFT display is clear even in bright sunlight and customizable to show only the necessary information. The scooter’s companion app provides helpful features like location tracking, ride statistics, and predictive maintenance alerts based on individual riding habits.
Security is another strong point. The Fold is equipped with a virtual geofence that triggers an alarm if the scooter is moved without authorization. The alarm also sends a location alert to the rider’s phone. Tesseract has even gone the extra mile by hiring ethical hackers to test the scooter’s security systems, ensuring they’re both reliable and difficult to breach.
Pricing and Financing
At ₹99,999 for the base model and ₹1,29,999 for the Pro variant, the Tesseract Fold is positioned in the premium segment alongside offerings from Ather and Ola. However, with subsidies and state incentives, the price becomes more competitive. The subscription-based battery swapping system lowers upfront costs, making it easier for users to avoid the hefty expense of home charging installations.
For those seeking financing options, Tesseract offers EMI plans through banks like HDFC and ICICI, with monthly payments as low as ₹2,800, similar to what many urban commuters pay for petrol.
The Verdict
The Tesseract Fold isn’t just another electric scooter – it’s a thoughtful solution to the real challenges of urban mobility in India. Its folding design solves the storage issue, the battery-swapping system eliminates the need for charging infrastructure, and its technology focuses on enhancing the riding experience rather than adding unnecessary features. With a 5-year/50,000 km warranty and a growing network of swap stations, Tesseract has created a promising option for urban commuters who need a practical, eco-friendly solution.
If Tesseract can successfully scale its operations and maintain its commitment to innovation, the Fold could very well become India’s most practical premium electric scooter.
FAQs
What is the range of the Tesseract Fold?
The base model offers a range of 85 km, while the Pro model provides 170 km on a single charge.
How does the battery swapping system work?
The scooter uses a modular battery system that can be swapped at designated stations in under 30 seconds. Tesseract offers a subscription service for unlimited swaps.
What is the price of the Tesseract Fold?
The base model is priced at ₹99,999, and the Pro version costs ₹1,29,999 (ex-showroom).
How secure is the Tesseract Fold?
The scooter features a virtual geofence and an alarm system that triggers if the scooter is moved without authorization.
Is the Tesseract Fold suitable for rough roads?
Yes, the scooter is equipped with adjustable suspension and a balanced design, making it suitable for India’s varied road conditions.
