Have you ever noticed how small delays can slow big things down? In the fast-changing world of electric vehicles (EVs), even a little hiccup can stall progress. That’s what Madhumita Agrawal, CEO of Oben Electric, recently shared about how GST issues are affecting sales growth. Let’s dive into what this means, how Oben Electric is innovating, and what it means for you if you’re thinking about an electric bike.
The New Sigma Trim: What’s Special?
Why bother upgrading a scooter’s battery or adding a fancy screen? Oben Electric’s new Sigma version of their Rorr EZ EV is about making your ride safer, smarter, and more comfortable.
Bigger Battery and Smarter Screen
Imagine having more juice to power your bike and a colorful screen that keeps you connected without checking your phone. The Sigma has a bigger battery pack and a five-inch TFT color display with navigation, music, and real-time call alerts—all made by Oben’s own tech team.
Comfort and Style
Long rides can hurt your back, right? Well, they fixed that by designing a seat that supports better posture. Plus, a fresh red color was chosen after careful research to look good and last long.
Price and Perks
The Sigma starts at Rs 1.27 lakh for the smaller battery and Rs 1.37 lakh for the bigger one, with prices rising after the introductory phase. You’ll also get a free one-year subscription package to enjoy the new tech features.
Why LFP Batteries?
Ever wondered why some electric vehicles use different kinds of batteries? Oben chose LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries for important reasons.
- Safety first: LFP batteries handle heat better than the common NMC types.
- Longer life: They last about twice as long, meaning fewer replacements.
- Cost-effective: They’re cheaper since they don’t need fancy cooling systems.
- Less dependency: No cobalt mines from China involved, making supply smoother.
- Eco-friendly: Easier to recycle and less hazardous.
This choice suits most Indian riders who travel 30–40 km daily and value safety and reliability over super long range.
The GST Challenge: A Roadblock for Growth?
Have you ever gotten stuck waiting for paperwork? For Oben Electric, government GST processes across different states create delays before a bike can be sold.
Madhumita explains that while the GST itself isn’t a cost problem—they don’t earn from it—it’s the slow and varied procedures that hold sales back. She hopes for a single, seamless GST system that moves faster and smoother.
Watching Battery-as-a-Service, Not Rushing
Battery-as-a-service means renting batteries instead of owning them. Oben is keeping an eye on this trend but isn’t jumping in yet. They prefer their in-house systems for now but are open to change if it benefits customers and business.
The Rising Wave of Electric Motorcycles
Motorcycles are complex tech-wise, so the electric versions took longer to become common. But now, the market is finally opening. Oben sees this as the next big thing for EVs, offering affordable, safe, and smart motorcycles for everyday riders.
Conclusion
Oben Electric’s new Sigma bike represents more than just a product—it’s a step forward in making EVs safe, affordable, and connected for daily commuters. Though GST delays slow growth, the company’s smart choices in batteries and technology keep them ahead. If you’re curious about switching to an electric motorcycle, Oben’s approach might just have what you need for a smooth, reliable ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What makes the Sigma bike’s battery special?
A1: It uses LFP battery technology, which is safer, lasts longer, and is cheaper than common alternatives.
Q2: How does the GST delay affect EV sales?
A2: Different state GST procedures slow down registration, delaying bike sales.
Q3: What features does the new Sigma display have?
A3: It includes navigation, call and message alerts, music controls, and trip info.
Q4: Is Oben Electric using battery-as-a-service?
A4: Not yet; they are monitoring its success before adopting it.
Q5: Why is comfort important in the Sigma bike design?
A5: A comfortable seat improves posture and allows longer, pain-free rides.
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