The Indian two-wheeler market witnessed a nostalgic yet futuristic revival as Kinetic Watts and Volts Ltd., a subsidiary of Kinetic Engineering, launched the Kinetic DX EV electric scooter. Priced at Rs 1.11 lakh for the DX variant and Rs 1.17 lakh for the DX+ (ex-showroom, Pune), this scooter blends the iconic design of the 1980s Kinetic Honda DX with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. For millions of Indians who grew up admiring the original DX’s gearless ease and stylish charm, this launch is a celebration of legacy fused with innovation. Equipped with a password-protected keyless system, a 116 km range, and segment-first features like a voice assistant that wishes you a happy birthday in 16 languages, the Kinetic DX EV is poised to redefine urban mobility. This article explores the scooter’s features, performance, and its place in India’s booming electric vehicle market, offering a comprehensive look at why it’s generating buzz nationwide.
A Legacy Reborn: The Kinetic DX’s Storied Past
The original Kinetic Honda DX, launched in 1984 through a joint venture between Kinetic Engineering and Honda Motor Company, was a game-changer in India’s two-wheeler landscape. As the country’s first automatic scooter, it offered gearless convenience, a stylish rectangular headlamp, and a vibrant red color option that made it a youth favorite. Its electric starter and low maintenance costs—advertised at just Rs 21 per month—set it apart in an era dominated by geared scooters like Vespa and Bajaj. Fast forward to 2025, Kinetic Green has resurrected this beloved nameplate, transforming it into a modern electric scooter that pays homage to its predecessor while embracing the demands of today’s eco-conscious riders.
Design: Nostalgia Meets Modernity
The Kinetic DX EV retains the boxy silhouette and retro charm of the original, designed in collaboration with Italy-based Torino Design. Its angular lines, horizontal LED headlamp, and small flyscreen with illuminated “Kinetic” branding echo the classic DX, while modern touches like LED DRLs shaped like the Kinetic logo and a sleek metal body elevate its aesthetic. The scooter is available in five colors—Red, Blue, Black, White, and Silver—for the DX+ variant, mirroring the original’s palette, while the base DX comes in Silver and Black. A spacious 704 mm seat and a 37-litre under-seat storage compartment, capable of holding a full and half helmet, make it a practical choice for families and urban commuters.
The design isn’t just about looks—it’s built for durability. Unlike many plastic-heavy scooters, the DX EV features a robust metal body, enhancing longevity and crash resistance. A wide floorboard and an Easy Flip pillion footrest, which deploys at the press of a button, add to its user-friendly appeal. The scooter’s retro-modern fusion has already sparked excitement on social media, with posts praising its nostalgic styling and premium build.
Power and Performance: Built for City and Beyond
At the heart of the Kinetic DX EV is a 4.8 kW hub-mounted BLDC motor, delivering a top speed of 90 kmph for the DX+ (80 kmph for the DX). This performance positions it as a zippy urban commuter, capable of tackling inclines and overtaking with ease. The scooter offers three riding modes—Range, Power, and Turbo—allowing riders to prioritize efficiency or performance based on road conditions. A reverse mode aids parking, while a hill-hold assist ensures safety on slopes.
The 2.6 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery, developed by Range-X, is a standout feature. Unlike conventional NMC batteries, the LFP pack offers over 3,500 charge cycles, promising a lifespan four times longer than competitors. It delivers an IDC range of 116 km for the DX+ and 102 km for the DX, with up to 150 km in eco mode. The K-Coast regenerative braking system further enhances efficiency, making it ideal for city commutes.
Charging Made Simple: The Easy Charge System
Charging the Kinetic DX EV is a breeze, thanks to its innovative Easy Charge system. A retractable charging cable is integrated into the front apron, eliminating the need to carry a separate adapter. Riders can connect to a standard 16A household socket, with the battery reaching 50% in 2 hours, 80% in 3 hours, and a full charge in 4 hours. This user-friendly design, coupled with a hidden under-boot compartment for small items, ensures convenience for daily use.
Smart Features: Password Protection and Beyond
The Kinetic DX EV redefines scooter technology with its password-protected keyless system, a segment-first feature. Instead of a traditional key, riders can lock and unlock the scooter via a password entered on the 8.8-inch LCD instrument cluster, which mimics the original DX’s layout for a nostalgic touch. For those who prefer a physical key, Kinetic offers an optional fob. The cluster, connectable to smartphones via Bluetooth, supports calls, messages, navigation, and music playback, with a built-in speaker for voice alerts and audio.
The DX+ variant elevates connectivity with the Telekinetics Suite, accessible via the Kinetic app. Features include real-time ride analytics, geofencing, vehicle tracking, anti-theft alerts, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. The “My Kiney Companion” voice assistant, supporting 16 Indian languages, adds a quirky touch by delivering safety reminders and even birthday greetings. A Kinetic Assist button connects riders directly to the customer service center for immediate support, enhancing user confidence.
Safety and Comfort: Engineered for Reliability
Safety is paramount in the Kinetic DX EV. It features a 220 mm front disc brake and a 130 mm rear drum brake with combi-braking (CBS) for balanced stopping power. The suspension setup includes telescopic front forks and adjustable rear shock absorbers, ensuring a smooth ride on India’s varied roads. The 12-inch alloy wheels provide stability, while cruise control and a cruise lock (sub-30 kmph speed hold) reduce rider fatigue and boost efficiency on long rides. A USB-C charging port under the seat keeps devices powered on the go.
Kinetic backs the DX EV with a 3-year/30,000 km warranty, extendable to an industry-leading 9 years or 1 lakh km, reflecting confidence in its build quality. The LFP battery’s durability and the scooter’s metal frame make it a reliable choice for long-term ownership.
Market Positioning: Competing in a Crowded Segment
Priced between Rs 1.11 lakh and Rs 1.17 lakh (ex-showroom, Pune), the Kinetic DX EV competes with premium electric scooters like the Bajaj Chetak (Rs 1.15 lakh), TVS iQube (Rs 1.17 lakh), Ather Rizta (Rs 1.12 lakh), and Hero Vida VX2 (Rs 1.09 lakh). Its blend of retro styling, advanced features, and a competitive range gives it an edge, though the absence of a TFT display with navigation, as noted by some reviewers, is a minor drawback compared to rivals. Kinetic aims to capture both nostalgia-driven buyers and tech-savvy urbanites, leveraging its 87,000 sq. ft. Pune plant and a growing network of Watts & Volts showrooms.
Ajinkya Firodia, Vice Chairman of Kinetic India, emphasized the scooter’s significance: “Reviving the DX was about bringing back the reliability and innovation that defined Kinetic for decades. With segment-first features, we’re confident it will become a favorite in the new era of electric mobility.”
Booking and Availability: Limited Units, High Demand
Bookings for the Kinetic DX EV opened on July 28, 2025, via www.kineticev.in for a token amount of Rs 1,000, with deliveries starting in September 2025. The initial batch is limited to 35,000 units, reflecting high anticipated demand. Social media posts on X highlight excitement for the scooter’s 37-litre storage, 90 kmph top speed, and smart features, positioning it as a strong contender in India’s EV market.
The Bigger Picture: India’s Electric Mobility Revolution
The Kinetic DX EV’s launch aligns with India’s push toward sustainable mobility, fueled by rising fuel prices, government incentives like the FAME-III scheme, and expanding charging infrastructure. With electric two-wheeler sales projected to grow 40% annually, Kinetic’s focus on LFP battery technology and thoughtful engineering positions it to capitalize on this trend. The company plans to launch three more “Born Electric” scooters in the next 18 months, signaling a bold re-entry into the market.
For Indian families, the DX EV offers a compelling mix of practicality, performance, and nostalgia. Its password-protected system, long-range battery, and modern features make it a standout, while its nod to the 1980s Kinetic Honda DX evokes memories of simpler times. As Kinetic Green paves the way for a new era of electric mobility, the DX EV is not just a scooter—it’s a symbol of India’s evolving relationship with innovation and heritage.
(India CSR)
