In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles, the Benling Aura has emerged as a noteworthy contender, blending style, efficiency, and eco-friendliness.
This electric scooter, crafted by Benling India, a subsidiary of the Chinese giant Dongguan Benling Vehicle Technology, has been making waves in the Indian market since its introduction. Let’s delve into the various aspects that make the Benling Aura a compelling choice for urban commuters seeking a greener alternative.
Design and Aesthetics: A Nod to Classic Elegance
The Benling Aura stands out with its neo-retro design, drawing inspiration from iconic Italian scooters. Its flowing body panels, round headlamp, and classic silhouette evoke a sense of nostalgia while simultaneously embracing modern aesthetics. Available in three striking colors – Glossy Blue, Matt Black, and Matt Plum Purple – the Aura caters to diverse tastes and preferences.
The scooter’s design isn’t just about looks; it’s a testament to thoughtful engineering. The plush paint finish and sturdy plastic panels speak volumes about the attention to detail. While the overall build quality is commendable, some users have noted that the cover and hinges of the lockable glove box at the front could be more robust.
Performance: Electric Power Meets Urban Needs
At the heart of the Benling Aura lies a powerful 3.2 kW BLDC (Brushless DC) motor, a significant upgrade from its predecessor’s 2.5 kW motor. This powerhouse is fed by a 3.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, promising a range that caters to the needs of daily urban commuters.
The Aura boasts a top speed of 65 kmph, making it suitable for both city streets and occasional highway jaunts. Its acceleration is smooth and responsive, providing a riding experience that rivals many of its petrol-powered counterparts. The scooter offers multiple riding modes, allowing riders to balance between performance and energy conservation based on their needs.
Range and Charging: The Crux of Electric Mobility
One of the most crucial aspects of any electric vehicle is its range, and the Benling Aura doesn’t disappoint. With a claimed range of 120 km on a single charge, it addresses the range anxiety that often plagues electric vehicle adopters. This impressive range is achieved in Eco mode, making the Aura a practical choice for daily commutes and short trips around the city.
Charging the Aura is a relatively quick affair, with the battery taking approximately 4 hours to reach full capacity. This quick charging time ensures that the scooter can be easily recharged overnight or during work hours, ready for the next day’s commute.
Features: Blending Convenience with Technology
The Benling Aura comes equipped with a host of features that enhance both its functionality and rider comfort. A fully-digital console provides essential information at a glance, including speed, battery level, and riding mode. However, some users have noted that the inclusion of a remaining range indicator would have been a welcome addition.
Other notable features include:
USB charging port for on-the-go device charging
Smart key with anti-theft alarm
Parking assist mode for easy maneuvering in tight spaces
Reverse assist function
LED headlamp for improved visibility
The scooter also offers a decent amount of storage space, although the battery occupies a significant portion of the under-seat area. The front storage compartment provides enough room for essentials like a smartphone and wallet.
Ride Quality and Handling
The Aura’s ride quality is enhanced by its well-tuned suspension system, featuring telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. This setup effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even on less-than-ideal road surfaces.
Braking duties are handled by a disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the rear, offering adequate stopping power. The inclusion of a Combined Braking System (CBS) further enhances safety, especially for less experienced riders.
The scooter’s lightweight construction and well-balanced chassis contribute to its nimble handling, making it easy to maneuver through congested city traffic. However, some riders might find the turning radius slightly wider compared to some competitors.
Price and Positioning
The Benling Aura is strategically priced to compete in the burgeoning electric scooter market. With an ex-showroom price starting at Rs. 73,000 for the base variant and going up to Rs. 1.22 Lakhs for the top-end STD variant, it positions itself as an affordable yet feature-rich option in the high-speed electric scooter segment.
This pricing strategy places the Aura in direct competition with established players like the TVS iQube and Bajaj Chetak, as well as newer entrants like the Ola S1 Pro. The Aura’s combination of retro styling, decent range, and competitive pricing makes it an attractive proposition for buyers looking to make the switch to electric mobility without breaking the bank.
Market Impact and Competition
The introduction of the Benling Aura has undoubtedly stirred the electric two-wheeler market in India. As more consumers look towards sustainable transportation options, scooters like the Aura play a crucial role in accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles.
In comparison to its competitors:
The TVS iQube offers a similar range but comes with the backing of a more established brand.
The Bajaj Chetak brings a premium feel and build quality but at a higher price point.
The Ola S1 Pro boasts superior technology features but has faced initial quality and delivery challenges.
The Aura’s unique selling points lie in its classic design, affordable pricing, and the balance it strikes between performance and practicality.
Challenges and Future Prospects
While the Benling Aura presents a compelling package, it’s not without its challenges. The brand’s relatively low recognition in the Indian market compared to established two-wheeler manufacturers could be a hurdle in gaining consumer trust. Additionally, the expansion of charging infrastructure remains a critical factor in the wider adoption of electric scooters like the Aura.
Looking ahead, Benling India has expressed plans to expand its product lineup and strengthen its presence in the Indian market. The success of the Aura could pave the way for more innovative offerings from the brand, potentially including higher-performance models or more affordable options to cater to different market segments.
Environmental Impact
One of the most significant advantages of the Benling Aura, and electric scooters in general, is their positive environmental impact.
By producing zero tailpipe emissions, these vehicles contribute to reducing air pollution in urban areas. As India moves towards cleaner energy sources for electricity generation, the overall carbon footprint of vehicles like the Aura will continue to decrease.
Moreover, the reduced noise pollution from electric scooters contributes to creating more livable urban environments. The Aura’s silent operation is a stark contrast to the constant drone of petrol-powered two-wheelers that dominate Indian roads.
Benling Aura : A Step Towards Sustainable Urban Mobility
The Benling Aura represents more than just another entry in the electric scooter market; it symbolizes the ongoing shift towards sustainable urban transportation. With its blend of retro styling, modern features, and electric efficiency, the Aura offers a glimpse into the future of personal mobility.
While it may not be perfect – with some areas for improvement in terms of feature refinement and brand recognition – the Aura stands as a solid option for those looking to embrace electric mobility. Its competitive pricing, decent range, and stylish design make it an attractive proposition for urban commuters.
As the electric vehicle ecosystem in India continues to evolve, with improvements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and government support, scooters like the Benling Aura are likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of urban transportation.
The journey of the Benling Aura is just beginning, and its success could very well be a bellwether for the broader acceptance of electric two-wheelers in India. As more consumers experience the benefits of electric mobility, vehicles like the Aura may soon become a common sight on Indian roads, heralding a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable urban landscape.