Executive Summary

The VLF Tennis electric scooter, an Italian-designed urban mobility solution, has received a notable update for its 2025 model year in India. Positioned as a stylish and eco-friendly commuter, it aims to blend performance with premium aesthetics, appealing particularly to a younger, urban demographic.

The most significant enhancements include an increased Indian Driving Cycle (IDC) claimed range, now extending to 150 km from the previous 130 km. This improvement is primarily attributed to the integration of an advanced Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate (LMFP) battery, which features an aluminum casing for improved thermal stability and safety. Complementing these performance upgrades, the scooter introduces two new color options: Slate Blue and Ebony Black, broadening its aesthetic appeal alongside the existing Snowflake White and Fire Fury Dark Red.

A critical aspect of VLF’s strategy is the decision to retain the original ex-showroom price of ₹1.30 lakh for the updated model. This strategic pricing, despite substantial feature enhancements, aims to bolster its value proposition within India’s highly competitive electric vehicle market.

In terms of market standing, the VLF Tennis is lauded for its distinctive Italian design, lightweight build (88 kg), and ease of maneuverability, which are significant advantages in congested urban environments. However, it faces intense competition from established players such as Ola S1 Pro, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, and Ather Rizta, many of which offer more extensive smart features and wider service networks. The VLF Tennis’s market penetration is currently constrained by a nascent dealership network, operating in only seven cities across India. Initial sales figures, with over 300 bookings within the first month of its original launch, indicate a moderate but positive reception.

User feedback highlights the scooter’s attractive design and its comfortable ride, particularly for solo commuting. Nevertheless, some concerns have emerged regarding the perceived build quality of certain plastic components, the limited functionality of its digital display compared to rivals, and the practical usability of its under-seat storage, which is largely occupied by the portable charger. Furthermore, real-world range tests indicate a noticeable deviation from the claimed IDC figures, a common challenge in the electric vehicle segment.

The VLF Tennis presents a unique aesthetic and a compelling package for urban commuters who prioritize style and ease of use. Its long-term success in India will depend significantly on the rapid expansion of its sales and service network, consistent quality control, and potential future enhancements to its digital and smart features to align more closely with evolving consumer expectations and competitive offerings.

1. Introduction to the VLF Tennis Electric Scooter

1.1. Brand Heritage and Entry into the Indian Market

The VLF Tennis electric scooter originates from Italy, under the Velocifero brand, a name synonymous with speed and ferocity in Italian. The brand’s foundation is deeply rooted in a rich motorcycle industry legacy, primarily through its founder, Alessandro Tartarini. Tartarini hails from a family with a long-standing tradition in two-wheeler manufacturing and design; his father, Leopoldo Tartarini, was a prominent rider for Ducati and Benelli in the 1950s and later established the influential Italjet Company, a benchmark for motorcycle design. Alessandro’s grandfather, Egisto Tartarini, was an official Moto Guzzi rider, achieving significant successes in the early 20th century.1 This profound heritage underscores VLF’s commitment to combining distinctive design, eco-friendly engineering, and high performance, with the explicit goal of redefining urban mobility and creating a “showstopper ride”.1

VLF made its official entry into the burgeoning Indian electric vehicle market through a strategic partnership with Motohaus India, operating under KAW Veloce Motors Pvt Ltd. Motohaus serves as the exclusive partner and distributor for VLF scooters in the country, overseeing their local assembly at a state-of-the-art facility located in Kolhapur, Maharashtra.7 The VLF Tennis officially debuted in India on November 18, 2024.1

The combination of VLF’s Italian design heritage and its local assembly in India represents a carefully considered strategic approach. The “Italian flair” 1 and the scooter’s “signature Italian precision” 1 serve as powerful differentiators in a market that is rapidly becoming saturated with a diverse range of electric vehicles, many of which lack a distinct aesthetic identity. This emphasis on design allows VLF to position the Tennis as a premium, unique offering, appealing to consumers who value sophisticated styling and European engineering. Concurrently, the local assembly operation conducted by Motohaus in Kolhapur 7 provides several critical advantages. It helps in mitigating the impact of higher import duties, potentially leading to more competitive pricing for the end consumer.

Furthermore, local manufacturing aligns with governmental initiatives promoting domestic production, which can foster a more favorable regulatory environment and potentially streamline market adaptation. This dual strategy effectively leverages the brand’s perceived value (premium, stylish) while ensuring a competitive price point and laying the groundwork for more efficient after-sales support, even as the service network continues to develop. This approach seeks to carve out a specific market segment by attracting consumers who are drawn to distinctive aesthetics and a perceived higher standard of engineering, even if the core manufacturing originates from China before local assembly.7

1.2. Overview of the 2025 Model Updates

The VLF Tennis 1500 received a substantial update for its 2025 model year, with its enhanced version launched in July 2025.4 These updates were meticulously designed to improve key performance attributes such as range and battery safety, alongside refreshing its cosmetic appeal, all while maintaining a consistent price point.

The most prominent enhancement is the increased IDC claimed range, which now stands at 150 km on a single charge, a notable improvement of 20 km from the previous 130 km.3 This extended range directly addresses one of the primary concerns for electric vehicle consumers: range anxiety, making the scooter more practical for daily commutes and longer distances.3 Powering this extended range is a new Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate (LMFP) battery system. This advanced battery is housed within an aluminum casing, a design choice that significantly enhances its heat resistance and overall safety, crucial attributes for the diverse and often challenging climatic conditions in India.4

In addition to performance upgrades, the 2025 model introduces two fresh and trendy color options: Slate Blue and Ebony Black. These new shades complement the existing Fire Fury Dark Red and Snowflake White, expanding the total color palette available to four options.4 Further technological refinements include the integration of a mobile charging port (USB) for convenient on-the-go device charging, and an improved 5-inch full-color TFT display that provides essential riding statistics.5

The decision by VLF to offer these substantial upgrades, particularly in battery technology and range, at an unchanged ex-showroom price of ₹1.30 lakh 3 is a highly aggressive competitive maneuver. In the Indian automotive market, where even minor feature adjustments often lead to price increments 11, VLF’s approach demonstrates a strong commitment to delivering enhanced value to consumers. This strategy signals a clear intent to gain significant market share and solidify its brand presence by offering a superior feature-to-price ratio.

It suggests that VLF is either effectively absorbing increased production costs, benefiting from greater economies of scale through its local assembly operations, or strategically prioritizing long-term market penetration over immediate profit maximization. This move directly appeals to consumer perceptions of value and aims to disrupt competitors who may be grappling with rising input costs or are less inclined to compromise on their profit margins. By doing so, the VLF Tennis is positioned as a more attractive option against rivals that might offer comparable features at higher price points or require additional expenditure for similar levels of range or battery safety.

2. Updated Features and Specifications

2.1. Design Enhancements and New Color Palette

The VLF Tennis electric scooter continues to distinguish itself with a design philosophy deeply rooted in its Italian heritage, characterized by a sleek, neo-retro, and avant-garde aesthetic.1 This “tennis-inspired theme” and “Italian flair” are intended to make the scooter a “showstopper ride,” specifically crafted to appeal to the “Gen Z crowd and young urban commuters” who seek a blend of style and performance.1

For the 2025 model year, VLF has expanded its color offerings to enhance the scooter’s visual appeal. Two new trendy shades, Slate Blue and Ebony Black, have been introduced. These new options join the existing Snowflake White and Fire Fury Dark Red, providing a total of four distinctive color choices for consumers.4 The design is further accentuated by eye-catching LED headlights, integrated signal lights, and a comprehensive full LED lighting system for the headlamp, taillamp, and turn indicators. This full LED setup not only contributes to the scooter’s premium appearance but also significantly enhances visibility and safety, particularly during night rides.1

The consistent praise for the VLF Tennis’s “excellent design,” “Italian flair,” and its status as “one of the best looking e scooters in the market” 1 underscores a critical strategic element. In the rapidly expanding and increasingly competitive Indian electric scooter market, where core performance metrics such as range and speed are becoming more standardized across models, design emerges as a paramount differentiator beyond mere technical specifications. VLF’s deliberate emphasis on its Italian design heritage and its unique “tennis-inspired theme” 1 is a calculated move to attract a specific segment of buyers, particularly the Gen Z and urban commuter demographics, who place a high value on style, individuality, and a distinctive visual presence.3

This approach indicates that VLF is not solely competing on raw technical data but is also strategically engaging with the emotional appeal and brand identity of its product. The aim is to forge a unique visual identity that stands apart from the more utilitarian or generic designs prevalent among some domestic competitors. The introduction of new color options further supports this by offering greater personalization, catering to a broader spectrum of aesthetic preferences within its target market. This strong focus on design can generate significant initial interest and appeal, even as other crucial aspects, such as the service network, are still in their developmental stages.

2.2. Advanced Battery Technology and Extended Range

The most impactful update for the 2025 VLF Tennis is the significant increase in its IDC claimed range, which now reaches 150 km on a single charge, up from the previous 130 km.3 This 20 km enhancement directly addresses a primary consumer concern in the electric vehicle market: range anxiety, thereby making the scooter more practical and convenient for daily commutes and extended travel.3

This extended range is made possible by the integration of a new Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate (LMFP) battery system. This advanced battery is housed within an aluminum casing, a design choice specifically implemented to improve heat resistance and enhance overall battery safety.4 The battery capacity is specified as 2.5 kWh 1 or 2.6 kWh 4, operating with a 72V motor peak voltage.2 Despite the increased capacity and advanced chemistry, the charging time remains commendably quick, requiring approximately 3 hours for a full charge using the bundled 720W portable AC charger.1

The adoption of LMFP battery technology by VLF represents a forward-thinking strategic decision that transcends a simple feature upgrade. This shift demonstrates a clear understanding of critical market demands in India. Firstly, the higher energy density inherent in LMFP batteries directly contributes to the increased 150 km range 19, serving as a significant selling point for electric vehicles and a direct countermeasure to consumer apprehension regarding limited travel distances.3 Secondly, the “excellent thermal stability” and “reduced risk of overheating and thermal runaway” characteristic of LMFP batteries 19 are exceptionally vital for the “thermally challenging Indian conditions”.14 This directly addresses a significant safety concern that has, at times, affected other EV brands in India due to thermal incidents.

The additional aluminum casing further reinforces this commitment to safety. Thirdly, while LMFP batteries may incur a slightly higher cost per kilogram compared to traditional LFP batteries, their superior energy density can result in a more cost-effective solution per watt-hour.19 This enables VLF to deliver improved performance in terms of both range and power output without necessitating a price increase 3, thereby underscoring a strong commitment to value. This technological advancement also positions VLF at the forefront of battery technology adoption within the Indian market, potentially establishing a new benchmark for competitors to follow. The choice of LMFP also suggests a long-term vision for battery performance and safety, which can significantly build consumer trust and enhance brand reputation.

However, it is important to note a significant discrepancy between the claimed IDC range and the real-world performance observed in independent testing. While VLF claims an IDC range of 150 km 3, an expert review indicates that real-world testing yielded “around 80km in regular City mode and you should be able to get up to 90-100km in Eco mode”.18 This substantial difference, representing a 33-47% reduction from the claimed figure, is a critical point that could influence user satisfaction and overall market perception. Although IDC figures are standardized laboratory measurements, it is the practical, real-world performance that truly matters to consumers. This gap, if not effectively communicated or addressed through further optimization, could inadvertently lead to the very “range anxiety” the extended claimed range aims to mitigate.

This situation highlights a pervasive challenge within the electric vehicle market, where laboratory-tested figures often do not translate directly to diverse real-world riding conditions, which include varying traffic patterns, inclines, rider weight, and the frequent use of different riding modes. For VLF, this implies that while the technical upgrade to LMFP is a positive development, the actual user experience might still fall short of the expectations set by marketing, potentially resulting in negative user feedback or a decline in consumer trust over time if this disparity is not proactively managed.

Table 1: VLF Tennis 2025 Key Specifications & Updates

SpecificationPrevious Model (Approx.)2025 Updated Model (VLF Tennis 1500)
Model Year20242025
Ex-Showroom Price₹1,29,999 1₹1,30,000 3
Claimed IDC Range130 km 1150 km 3
Real-World RangeN/A80-100 km (City/Eco) 18
Battery TypeLithium-ion 1LMFP (Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate) with Aluminum Casing 4
Battery Capacity2.5 kWh 12.5 kWh / 2.6 kWh 4
Charging Time (0-100%)3 Hours 13 Hours 4
Motor Power (Nominal)1500 W (1.5 kW) 11500 W (1.5 kW) 1
Motor Power (Peak)N/A2.57 kW 4
Peak Torque157 Nm 1157 Nm 4
Top Speed65 kmph 165 kmph 1
Kerb Weight88 kg 188 kg 3
New Color OptionsN/ASlate Blue, Ebony Black 4
Key New/Updated FeaturesN/AMobile Charging Port (USB), 5-inch Full-Color TFT Display, Keyless Start, Side-stand Motor Cut-off 3

2.3. Performance Metrics and Riding Modes

The VLF Tennis is propelled by a 1500W (1.5 kW) electric motor 1, which delivers a peak power output of 2.57 kW.4 This motor is capable of generating a robust peak torque of 157 Nm 1, a figure that promises “swift acceleration without a hitch”.1 The scooter achieves a modest top speed of 65 kmph.1 While this speed is considered “adequate for the city” and sufficient for daily commutes, it “might feel slow on open roads” where higher speeds are often desired.18

To cater to diverse riding preferences and conditions, the VLF Tennis offers three distinct driving modes: Eco, Comfort (also referred to as Normal), and Sports. These modes allow riders to adjust the scooter’s performance characteristics to suit their mood or the demands of the road.1 The Eco mode is designed to maximize the riding range, making it ideal for more relaxed commuting, while the Sport mode provides quicker acceleration for a more spirited ride.20 The scooter also boasts an 18-degree gradeability 1, indicating its capability to navigate hilly terrains with relative ease.

2.4. Chassis, Suspension, and Braking System

The structural integrity of the VLF Tennis is built upon a high-tensile tubular steel frame.3 This robust yet lightweight construction contributes significantly to its remarkably low kerb weight of just 88 kg.1 This makes it one of the lightest scooters in its segment, a characteristic that greatly enhances its nimbleness and ease of maneuverability, particularly beneficial for new riders and navigating dense city traffic.16

For ride comfort, the scooter is equipped with a telescopic front suspension and a rear mono-shock absorber featuring a progressive cantilever system.1 While the overall stability of the ride is deemed decent, reviews indicate that the suspension tuning leans “on the firmer side,” which means that “larger potholes do make their presence felt” and can result in a less plush ride over broken roads.18

Safety is a paramount consideration, and the VLF Tennis incorporates a comprehensive braking system. It features 220 mm front and rear disc brakes, which are complemented by a Combined Braking System (CBS).1 This setup is reported to deliver “precise stopping power” and ensures the scooter remains composed even during instances of hard braking.18 The scooter rides on sturdy 12-inch alloy wheels 1, fitted with 110/80-12 tyres for both front and rear.1

2.5. Technology and Convenience Features

The VLF Tennis is equipped with a 5-inch or 5.5-inch full-color TFT display, which serves as the instrument console, providing essential riding statistics such as speed and battery life at a glance.1 This display also offers Bluetooth pairing capabilities.18

Among the new additions for the 2025 model year is a mobile charging port (USB), allowing riders to conveniently charge their devices while on the go.5 Convenience features further include keyless start 3 and a side-stand motor cut-off sensor, which enhances safety by preventing accidental acceleration when the side stand is engaged.3 The scooter’s premium appearance is underscored by a full LED lighting system, encompassing the headlamp, tail lamp, and turn indicators, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and improved visibility.1 For storage, the VLF Tennis offers an 18-liter under-seat compartment 1, though it has been noted in reviews that this space is “mostly taken up by the portable charger,” limiting its practical utility for other essentials.18

While the VLF Tennis incorporates essential modern features like a TFT display and a USB charging port, its digital interface is described as “barebones”.18 It notably lacks advanced smart features prevalent in the competitive Indian EV market, such as a real-time range estimate (only battery percentage is displayed), a reverse mode, ride data logging, and comprehensive app integration.18 This represents a significant competitive disadvantage in a market where rivals like Ola S1 Pro, TVS iQube, and Ather Rizta have set high standards for “smart” features, including larger touchscreens, full app connectivity, turn-by-turn navigation, reverse assist, and over-the-air (OTA) updates.20

Furthermore, the keyless ignition system has been reported as “hit-or-miss,” occasionally requiring the physical key, and the absence of a dedicated start/stop button, where the scooter comes alive by squeezing the brake, has been flagged as a potential safety concern.18 These observations indicate that while VLF excels in design and mechanical components, it must rapidly evolve its digital and connectivity offerings to meet the escalating consumer expectations and maintain competitiveness, particularly given its premium price point. This area presents a significant opportunity for future investment and development for VLF to bridge the experiential gap with its main competitors.

3. Pricing Strategy and Value Proposition

3.1. Unchanged Price Point: Analysis of its Competitive Implication

The 2025 VLF Tennis has been introduced at an ex-showroom price of ₹1.30 lakh.3 This pricing is notably consistent with its original launch price of ₹1,29,999.1

This decision to maintain the price, despite incorporating significant upgrades such as an increased range and an advanced LMFP battery, strategically positions the VLF Tennis as a compelling value proposition within the Indian electric vehicle market.3 It reflects an intent to offer “more without complicating things” and “strengthens its case as a stylish, city-friendly EV that gets the basics right without pushing the budget”.11

For a relatively new entrant into the Indian market like VLF 16, maintaining a stable price while simultaneously offering substantial product enhancements is an aggressive and well-calculated market entry and penetration strategy. This approach is particularly crucial in India’s highly price-sensitive yet value-conscious consumer landscape. It communicates to potential buyers that VLF is committed to delivering competitive value and possesses confidence in its cost efficiencies, which are likely bolstered by its local assembly operations.7 This pricing strategy can exert pressure on established competitors who may be facing increasing production costs or are less inclined to absorb them. By offering enhanced features at no additional cost, VLF directly addresses the “brand recognition” challenge it faces as a new player.16 It makes the product inherently more appealing on a value-for-money basis, potentially attracting early adopters who are willing to embrace a new brand in exchange for a superior feature-to-price ratio. This strategy is designed to accelerate market acceptance and build initial sales momentum, as evidenced by the positive reception of over 300 bookings within a month of its original launch.7

4. Market Position and Competitive Landscape in India

4.1. Target Audience and Market Fit

The VLF Tennis electric scooter is primarily designed and marketed for “city-dwellers who value eco-friendly travel without compromising on looks or performance”.1 Its distinctive Italian styling and sporty undertones are specifically aimed at attracting the “Gen Z crowd and young urban commuters” 3 who are seeking a “powerful yet elegant ride” with a “sporty touch”.1 The scooter’s lightweight construction, at just 88 kg 1, combined with its nimble handling and tight turning radius, makes it an ideal “perfect fit for city life” and “easy to manoeuvre” through congested urban environments.1 This focus on urban utility and aesthetic appeal defines its niche within the broader electric two-wheeler market.

4.2. Competitive Analysis: VLF Tennis vs. Key Rivals

The VLF Tennis operates within a highly competitive segment of the Indian electric scooter market, directly vying for market share with established and popular models. Its primary competitors include the Ola S1 Pro, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak, Ather Rizta, Ather 450X, Honda Activa e, and River Indie.3

Strengths in Comparison:

  • Design: The VLF Tennis consistently receives acclaim for its “modern design and styling” 16 and its “aerodynamic pattern”.17 Its aesthetic is frequently highlighted as a significant differentiator, with many considering it “one of the best looking e scooters in the market”.16 This unique visual appeal helps it stand apart in a crowded market.
  • Weight: At a mere 88 kg kerb weight, the VLF Tennis is notably “less as compared to the competitors”.7 This lightness significantly contributes to its exceptional nimbleness and ease of maneuverability, making it particularly user-friendly for navigating urban traffic.
  • Removable Battery: The inclusion of two easy-to-swap lithium batteries is a practical advantage, offering convenience for charging and potentially alleviating range concerns for users who can swap or charge batteries off-board.1
  • Braking: The scooter’s front and rear disc brakes with a Combined Braking System (CBS) are noted for delivering “precise stopping power” and maintaining composure even during hard braking, contributing to overall safety.1

Weaknesses in Comparison:

  • Top Speed: The VLF Tennis’s modest top speed of 65 kmph 1 is a notable disadvantage when compared to many of its rivals. Competitors like Ola S1 Pro (117-120 kmph) 22, Ather Rizta (80 kmph) 24, TVS iQube (75-82 kmph) 20, Bajaj Chetak (63-73 kmph) 31, and River Indie (90 kmph) 26 offer significantly higher top speeds, making them more suitable for open roads or faster urban commutes.
  • Brand Recognition & Service Network: As a new brand in the Indian market 16, VLF faces a considerable challenge in establishing brand recognition against well-entrenched players. Its dealership network is currently limited to just seven cities: New Delhi, Sangli, Bengaluru, Kolhapur, Goa, Ahmedabad, and Pune.6 This limited presence contrasts sharply with the extensive sales and service networks of established brands, which often influence consumer purchasing decisions.16 While Motohaus aims to expand to 20 dealerships by mid-2025 10, the current limited reach poses a significant hurdle.
  • Feature Set (Smart Features): Despite its TFT display and USB charging, the VLF Tennis’s technology suite is perceived as “barebones” 18 when compared to the feature-rich offerings of its rivals. It lacks advanced functionalities such as comprehensive app integration, turn-by-turn navigation, reverse mode, and detailed ride data logging, which are increasingly expected by consumers in the smart EV segment.18
  • Build Quality Concerns: Reviews have highlighted issues such as “flimsy plastic” components and switches that “lack tactility”.18 A specific instance of the high beam switch getting stuck mid-ride was also reported.18 While these may be minor issues, they can impact the perception of overall quality and reliability.
  • Real-World Range Discrepancy: As discussed, the significant gap between the claimed 150 km IDC range and the real-world tested range of 80-100 km 18 can lead to consumer dissatisfaction and range anxiety.
  • Under-seat Storage Practicality: Although the scooter offers 18 liters of under-seat storage, a considerable portion of this space is occupied by the portable charger, limiting its practical utility for carrying other essentials like a helmet or backpack.18

Table 2: Comparative Analysis of Key Electric Scooters in India

FeatureVLF Tennis 1500 1Ola S1 Pro 22TVS iQube 20Bajaj Chetak 29Ather Rizta 24River Indie 17
Ex-Showroom Price₹1.30 Lakh₹1.16 – 1.36 Lakh₹0.94 – 1.31 Lakh₹0.99 – 1.46 Lakh₹1.12 – 1.54 Lakh₹1.43 Lakh
Claimed Range (IDC)150 km176 – 195 km94 – 230 km113 – 127 km123 – 160 km161 km
Real-World Range80-100 km (City/Eco)Varies (often lower than claimed)100-140 km (Standard)Varies (often lower than claimed)Varies (often lower than claimed)Varies (often lower than claimed)
Top Speed65 kmph117 – 120 kmph75 – 82 kmph63 – 73 kmph80 kmph90 kmph
Battery Capacity2.5/2.6 kWh3/4 kWh2.2/3.1/3.5 kWh2.88/3 kWh2.9/3.7 kWh4 kWh
Charging Time3 Hrs6 – 9 Hrs1 – 4.5 Hrs3.8 – 6 Hrs6.1 – 8.3 Hrs6 Hrs
Kerb Weight88 kg109 – 116 kg110 kg134 kg125 kg143 kg
Under-seat Storage18 L (charger occupies space)34 L30 L18/35 L34 L43 L
Key Smart Features5-inch TFT, Bluetooth, Keyless Start, USB Charging, 3 Riding Modes7-inch Touchscreen, Bluetooth, GPS, OTA, Cruise Control, Reverse Mode, App Connectivity, 4 Riding Modes7-inch TFT, Bluetooth, GPS, App Connectivity, Reverse Assist, 3 Riding ModesDigital/TFT Display, Bluetooth, Hill Hold, Reverse Mode (with TecPac), 2 Riding ModesDigital/TFT Display, Bluetooth, WiFi, Navigation, App Connectivity, Reverse Assist, Skid Control, 2 Riding Modes6-inch LCD, Bluetooth, Reverse Mode, 3 Riding Modes, 12L Glove Box

Initial Market Reception:

The VLF Tennis has garnered a positive initial response, with over 300 bookings recorded within a month of its original India launch in mid-November.7 This suggests a segment of consumers is receptive to its unique value proposition. However, the brand’s physical presence remains limited, with dealerships currently operating in only seven key cities across India: New Delhi, Sangli, Bengaluru, Kolhapur, Goa, Ahmedabad, and Pune.6 Motohaus, the distributor, has articulated ambitious plans to expand this network, aiming to establish 20 dealerships by mid-2025.10

The VLF Tennis appears to be targeting a distinct segment within the Indian EV scooter market: riders who prioritize a unique European design, a lightweight and agile ride optimized for urban commutes, and fundamental electric mobility, rather than an extensive array of cutting-edge smart features or exceptionally high top speeds. While its distinctive aesthetic and superior maneuverability are compelling advantages, its relatively lower top speed and “barebones” technological suite, when compared to rivals like the Ola S1 Pro or Ather Rizta that offer more advanced digital experiences and higher performance, inherently restrict its appeal to the broader mass market. The currently limited dealership network further constrains its market reach. This positioning suggests that VLF’s immediate strategy may be to capture a premium, design-conscious urban segment before attempting a wider scale-up.

However, for long-term viability and to effectively challenge established players, VLF will need to either intensify its focus on this niche by further enhancing its unique selling propositions (e.g., even more refined design, uncompromising build quality) or broaden its market appeal by addressing the competitive gaps in performance and smart features. This expansion must be coupled with a rapid and significant scaling of its sales and service infrastructure. The current market positioning presents a strategic dilemma between catering to a specialized niche and achieving substantial market share.

5. User Experience in India

5.1. Riding Dynamics and Comfort

The VLF Tennis is frequently praised for its riding dynamics, characterized by its “nimble” and “easy to use” nature.16 This is largely attributable to its exceptionally lightweight construction (88 kg) and a tight turning radius, making it highly responsive to rider input and stress-free to maneuver, particularly in congested city environments.16 The scooter’s accessibility is enhanced by a seat height of 780mm and upright handlebars 18, accommodating a wide range of riders. The seat itself is reported to be “well-cushioned,” providing comfort for solo riders.18 However, its length is deemed insufficient for two adults to sit comfortably, limiting its practicality for pillion riders on longer journeys.18

In terms of ride quality, the VLF Tennis features a telescopic front fork and a rear monoshock.18 While stability is generally decent, the ride is described as being “on the firmer side,” which means that “larger potholes do make their presence felt”.18 This suggests that while it handles well, it may not offer the most plush ride over uneven or broken road surfaces common in India. A significant positive aspect of the riding experience is the braking performance. The front and rear disc brakes, coupled with a Combined Braking System (CBS), deliver “progressive stopping power” and ensure the scooter remains composed even during hard braking maneuvers.18

5.2. Practicality and Convenience

The VLF Tennis incorporates a removable battery system, which, in theory, offers significant convenience for charging, particularly for those without dedicated parking charging points.17 However, in practice, the battery is noted to be heavy, making frequent removal and carrying a cumbersome task.18 This suggests that for many users, installing a charging point in their parking area might still be the most practical option.18

The scooter provides an 18-liter under-seat storage compartment.1 Unfortunately, a considerable portion of this space is occupied by the portable charger, significantly reducing its usable volume for other essentials like a helmet or backpack.18 A small front cubby is available for minor items.18

In terms of technological convenience, the keyless ignition system, while a modern feature, has been reported as “hit-or-miss,” occasionally failing to connect and necessitating the use of the physical key.18 Furthermore, the absence of a dedicated start/stop button, where the scooter is activated by squeezing the brake, has been highlighted as a potential safety concern, as pressing the brake is a natural reflex and could lead to accidental acceleration if the brake is released and the accelerator is inadvertently pulled.18

5.3. Perceived Quality and Reliability

While the VLF Tennis is lauded for its overall design and aesthetics, some concerns regarding perceived build quality have emerged from early reviews. Specific observations include the use of “flimsy plastic” components and switches that “lack tactility”.18 An instance of the high beam switch getting stuck mid-ride was also reported.18 These issues, though described as “minor niggles,” are crucial for overall user satisfaction and can influence the perception of the scooter’s long-term reliability and premium feel.18 Consistent quality control will be essential for VLF to build a strong reputation in the market.

5.4. Real-World Range Performance

A critical aspect of the user experience, particularly for electric vehicles, is the real-world driving range. While VLF claims an IDC range of 150 km for the updated Tennis 3, independent testing indicates a notable discrepancy. Reviews suggest a real-world range of “around 80km in regular City mode” and up to “90-100km in Eco mode”.18 This significant difference between claimed and actual range can lead to “range anxiety” and potentially impact user satisfaction, as daily commutes might require more frequent charging stops than anticipated based on advertised figures. Effective communication of real-world performance expectations is vital to manage consumer perceptions.

5.5. Customer Feedback (Early Impressions)

Early customer feedback and expert reviews generally commend the VLF Tennis for its distinctive design. Users have described it as having an “excellent design” and being “one of the best looking e scooters in the market right now”.17 Positive comments also highlight its lightweight nature and the convenience offered by its removable battery.17 While the number of comprehensive user reviews available is still limited 17, the initial reception, as evidenced by over 300 bookings within a month of its original launch, suggests a positive market entry and a degree of consumer interest in its unique proposition.7

6. Conclusions

The VLF Tennis electric scooter, with its 2025 updates, presents a compelling and distinctive offering in the competitive Indian electric vehicle market. Its core strengths lie in its unique Italian design heritage, which provides a strong aesthetic differentiator, and its remarkably lightweight construction, enhancing maneuverability and ease of use in urban environments. The strategic decision to integrate an advanced LMFP battery, improving both claimed range and safety, while crucially maintaining the original ex-showroom price of ₹1.30 lakh, positions the scooter as a strong value proposition, particularly for a new market entrant. This aggressive pricing strategy aims to accelerate market acceptance and build initial sales momentum.

However, the VLF Tennis faces several notable challenges that could impede its broader appeal and sustained growth. The significant discrepancy between the claimed 150 km IDC range and the observed 80-100 km real-world range is a critical factor that could lead to consumer dissatisfaction and range anxiety. Furthermore, while equipped with a TFT display, the scooter’s overall technology suite is perceived as “barebones” compared to rivals, lacking advanced smart features like comprehensive app integration, navigation, and reverse mode that are increasingly standard in this segment. Concerns regarding perceived build quality, such as flimsy plastics and problematic switches, also warrant attention to ensure long-term reliability and premium perception. Lastly, VLF’s nascent dealership network, currently limited to seven cities, restricts its market reach and the accessibility of after-sales service, a crucial factor for consumer confidence in a new brand.

In conclusion, the VLF Tennis is positioned as a niche player, appealing strongly to urban commuters who prioritize distinctive style, a lightweight and agile ride, and fundamental electric mobility. Its success in the dynamic Indian market will hinge on its ability to rapidly expand its sales and service network, consistently deliver on quality, and strategically enhance its digital and smart features to align with evolving consumer expectations and the competitive landscape. Without addressing these critical areas, the VLF Tennis, despite its unique attributes and competitive pricing, may struggle to transition from a niche offering to a significant market contender.

Sources

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