The Keeway EZI Hypevolt-R is an electric scooter that has made its debut in India as a complete knock-down (CKD) model available through Benelli and Keeway dealerships. This electric scooter marks the introduction of EZI, a sub-brand of Keeway focused on electric mobility. After a thorough evaluation, we have identified both commendable aspects and some drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.
Reasons to Consider the Keeway EZI Hypevolt-R
One of the standout features of the Hypevolt-R is its impressive performance. Equipped with a powerful 12kW motor and a dual-battery pack of 5.04kWh, this scooter can accelerate from 0 to 80 kilometers per hour (kph) in just 7.49 seconds, and reaches 100 kph in 13.05 seconds when set to Sport mode. This level of acceleration is remarkable for an electric scooter, providing an exhilarating riding experience.
The Hypevolt-R also offers three distinct riding modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, allowing users to choose according to their needs. For daily commuting, the Normal mode strikes a good balance, delivering enough power for overtaking while also maintaining an efficient range. During testing, we managed to travel 125 kilometers on a single charge while predominantly using Normal mode.
In addition to its performance, the design of the Hypevolt-R is striking. The scooter features arrow-shaped side panels, a motorcycle-style handlebar, and substantial 14-inch wheels, creating a visually appealing aesthetic. The build quality is commendable, with premium-feeling switchgear and dual-channel ABS disc brakes on both ends. Practical features such as 27 liters of underseat storage—enough for a half-face helmet—alongside 4.6 liters of front storage, ensure that it is functional as well. For tech enthusiasts, the inclusion of USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports adds convenience.
Things to Think About Before Purchase
Despite its many strengths, the Keeway EZI Hypevolt-R does have some areas that might deter potential buyers. One major concern is the sealing of the battery compartment. After using the scooter extensively in wet conditions, we noticed a significant accumulation of water, dirt, and debris inside the compartment upon removal of the batteries. This not only poses a maintenance issue but also makes cleaning challenging. Furthermore, each battery weighs 17.3 kilograms, making them cumbersome to handle for home charging. The relatively short charging cable could also present challenges based on socket locations.
Another area of concern is the complexity of the electronics. While the scooter is equipped with various high-tech features like traction control, adjustable regenerative braking, blind-spot detection with a reverse camera, cruise control, and Bluetooth connectivity, the integration of these features can be cumbersome. For instance, there is no range estimate displayed on the TFT screen; instead, users must rely on a smartphone app for this information. Managing riding modes, traction control, and regeneration settings through the app rather than directly on the instrument cluster can be inconvenient. Additionally, the keyless ignition system requires manual unlocking via the fob, which could be seen as less user-friendly than expected for a scooter in this price range.
