Benling Icon

The Benling Icon is a compact and feature-rich electric scooter designed primarily for urban commuting in India. It is powered by a 250W60V brushless motor, available with either a lead acid or lithium-ion battery. The scooter has a top speed of 25 kmph, which, although limited, is sufficient for short-distance travel. It features a quirky design with a naked handlebar, short visor, and an angular front apron, along with an eye-catching tail lamp. Key features include a USB charging port, integrated locking system, regenerative braking, anti-theft protection alarm, and smart breakdown assistance. The scooter is equipped with tubeless tyres, telescopic forks, and a monoshock, ensuring a comfortable ride. With its low running costs and eco-friendly nature, the Benling Icon is a practical choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable electric scooter for daily use.

The Benling Icon is a viable option for those seeking a budget-friendly, short-distance electric scooter in India. While it excels in comfort and safety, particularly for urban commuting, its limitations in top speed and charging time might be a deterrent for some users. The scooters quirky design and feature-rich profile, including a USB charging port, integrated locking system, and regenerative braking, make it a compelling choice. However, the mixed user reviews highlight concerns about quality and service, which potential buyers should consider. Overall, the Benling Icon is a good option for those prioritizing affordability and eco-friendliness, but it may not be the best fit for those needing higher performance or longer range capabilities.

Benling India and Hero Electric have been debarred by the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) from participating in any EV incentive schemes due to violations of the FAME-II manufacturing norms. This decision has severely impacted their operations, with both companies forced to shut down their manufacturing units and lay off a significant number of employees. I believe this move will significantly hinder their ability to compete in the Indian EV market.

The Benling Icon, one of the popular electric scooters from Benling India, has been discontinued and is no longer in production. This scooter was known for its quirky design, compact dimensions, and features like a USB charging port and regenerative braking system. I think the discontinuation of the Icon reflects the broader challenges Benling is facing in the Indian market.

Benling India, along with other EV manufacturers, has been accused of non-compliance with FAME-II guidelines, particularly in terms of local manufacturing requirements. For instance, a Benling India scooter was found to have almost all components imported, contrary to the 50% local manufacturing rule. I believe this highlights the need for stricter enforcement and clearer guidelines to ensure compliance.

The Benling Icon was praised for its affordability and features, making it a popular choice for short-distance urban commuting. It came with options for lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, offering a riding range of up to 75 km. I think the Icons design and features were well-suited for the Indian market, but regulatory issues have overshadowed its potential.

Benling India has been involved in a legal battle against the MHIs actions, arguing that delays and regulatory inconsistencies have led to their financial and operational difficulties. The company, along with others like Hero Electric and Okinawa, is contesting the governments decisions in court. I believe the outcome of this legal battle will be crucial for the future of these EV manufacturers in India.

The price of the Benling Icon in India varies based on the battery type and location. The ex-showroom price for the lead acid battery version is generally lower, while the lithium-ion battery version comes at a premium. As of the current market, the ex-showroom price for the lead acid version can range from 60,000 to 70,000, and for the lithium-ion version, it can be between 80,000 to 90,000. On-road prices, including registration, insurance, and other charges, can add another 10,000 to 15,000 to these figures. This pricing makes the Benling Icon one of the more affordable electric scooters in the Indian market, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional petrol-powered scooters.

The Benling Icon boasts a respectable mileage for its class, with a claimed riding range of 70-75 kilometers per charge. This range is suitable for short to medium-distance urban commutes, making it an attractive option for daily use within city limits. The charging time varies between the battery types, with the lead acid battery taking around 4 hours to fully charge and the lithium-ion battery requiring 7-8 hours. This mileage, combined with the low running cost of approximately 0.19 per kilometer, makes the Benling Icon an economical choice for those looking to reduce their fuel expenses. ABOUT The Benling Icon is a compact and feature-rich electric scooter designed primarily for urban commuting in India. It is powered by a 250W60V brushless motor, available with either a lead acid or lithium-ion battery. The scooter has a top speed of 25 kmph, which, although limited, is sufficient for short-distance travel. It features a quirky design with a naked handlebar, short visor, and an angular front apron, along with an eye-catching tail lamp. Key features include a USB charging port, integrated locking system, regenerative braking, anti-theft protection alarm, and smart breakdown assistance. The scooter is equipped with tubeless tyres, telescopic forks, and a monoshock, ensuring a comfortable ride. With its low running costs and eco-friendly nature, the Benling Icon is a practical choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable electric scooter for daily use.