River introduces updated Indie electric scooter with chain drive and new colors

River, a Bengaluru-based electric scooter manufacturer, has introduced an updated version of its Indie electric scooter. The latest model features a single-speed gearbox with a chain drive, a first in its segment. This upgrade is aimed at enhancing durability and reducing ownership costs. The updated Indie is now available in two additional colors, Winter White and Storm Grey, alongside the existing Monsoon Blue, Summer Red, and Spring Yellow. It is priced at Rs 1,42,999 (ex-showroom Bengaluru).  

Launched initially in late 2023, the Indie scooter includes a lockable storage capacity of 55 liters, comprising 12 liters in the glovebox and 43 liters under the seat. The design incorporates front footpegs and 14-inch wheels to improve maneuverability and riding comfort across varied road conditions. The Lock&Load pannier-stays allow for customisable configurations, and additional accessories enhance its utility. The scooter retains its three riding modes—Eco, Ride, and Rush—and delivers a range of 110 kilometers on a single charge.  

Aravind Mani, CEO and Co-founder of River, stated, “Since the Indie’s launch in October 2023, we have sold over 3,000 units. Feedback from customers has been instrumental in shaping the updates for the new Indie. In the next two months, we plan to expand our presence with new stores in cities like Coimbatore, Vizag, Hubli, Cochin, Belgaum, Vellore, Mysore, and Uppal. By March 2025, we aim to have 25 River Stores across India.”  

Mazher Ali Baig Mirza, Head of Mechanical Design at River, noted the advantages of the chain drive with a single-speed gearbox. He explained that the system is more durable, reduces long-term ownership costs, and is simpler to assemble and repair, making it highly scalable.

River, headquartered in Bengaluru, focuses on designing and manufacturing electric scooters tailored to meet the mobility needs of urban commuters. The company aims to contribute to the growing electric vehicle market in India by offering practical and functional solutions. Its primary product, the Indie, is designed to combine utility and adaptability, addressing diverse commuting requirements.

The Indie scooter is engineered with features such as lockable storage compartments and ride modes suitable for various road conditions. Recently, the introduction of a single-speed gearbox with a chain drive reflects the company’s focus on improving product durability and optimizing long-term maintenance costs. River continues to incorporate customer feedback to enhance its offerings, emphasizing functionality and practicality in its designs.

The company is also working to expand its presence across key Indian cities, with plans to establish additional retail outlets in the coming months. By focusing on user-friendly designs and operational efficiency, River aims to cater to a broad spectrum of customers.

River’s initiatives align with the increasing adoption of sustainable transportation solutions, aiming to provide reliable and efficient electric mobility options that support the evolving needs of urban commuters.