Quick Highlights:

• Ola Electric launches Gen 3 Upgrade Programme for existing Gen 1 & Gen 2 owners.
• Upgrade includes models powered by in-house 4680 ‘Bharat’ battery cells.
• Pilot rollout begins in Bengaluru, with pan-India expansion planned.
• Includes access to S1 Gen 3 scooters and the new Roadster motorcycle lineup.

Ola Electric Announces Gen 3 Upgrade Programme for Existing Owners

In a significant move aimed at strengthening customer loyalty, Ola Electric has officially unveiled its Gen 3 Upgrade Programme, enabling existing Gen 1 and Gen 2 scooter owners to transition to the brand’s latest Gen 3 platform.

The initiative gives early adopters a structured pathway to upgrade to Ola’s newest EV architecture, including the refreshed S1 scooter lineup and the much-anticipated Roadster electric motorcycle series.

Personally, I see this as more than just an upgrade offer—it feels like a strategic attempt to ensure early customers remain part of the company’s evolving ecosystem rather than being sidelined as technology advances.

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Bridging Customers to the Gen 3 Platform

At the heart of the Gen 3 platform lies Ola’s in-house developed 4680 ‘Bharat’ battery cells. These cylindrical cells are designed to deliver:

• Higher energy density
• Improved thermal management
• Faster charging capability
• Better structural integration

The shift to the 4680 Bharat cells signals a deeper vertical integration strategy, which could reduce long-term production costs and enhance performance consistency.

By transitioning existing customers to this architecture, Ola is effectively consolidating its product ecosystem under a more refined and scalable platform.

Bengaluru Pilot Rollout

The Upgrade Programme will debut in Bengaluru this weekend as a pilot phase. The city, which also serves as Ola’s operational base, will act as a testing ground to streamline:

• Exchange valuation mechanisms
• Documentation and ownership transfer
• Delivery timelines

A nationwide rollout is expected once operational processes are optimized.

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Gen 3 Lineup Available for Upgrade

Customers participating in the programme can choose from the following Gen 3 models:

• Ola S1 Z & S1 Gen 3: Urban-focused entry and mid-range electric scooters aimed at daily commuters.
• Ola S1 Pro Gen 3: The flagship performance scooter offering enhanced power delivery and premium features.
• Ola Roadster Series: Marking the brand’s entry into the electric motorcycle segment, the Roadster lineup is priced between ₹82,999 and ₹1,89,999 (ex-showroom).

The inclusion of motorcycles in the upgrade path is particularly interesting—it broadens the upgrade appeal beyond just scooter-to-scooter transitions.

A Strategic Reset for Customer Retention

The timing of this announcement is notable. After experiencing a dip in market share during late 2024 and early 2025, along with public discussions around service efficiency, Ola appears to be repositioning itself.

Internally, this programme is being viewed as a “structural reset.”

By migrating customers to a simplified Gen 3 manufacturing architecture, Ola may also reduce service complexities tied to older generations. From a long-term perspective, this could improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Exchange Valuation & Subsidy Benefits

While the programme has been confirmed, the detailed exchange valuation matrix has not yet been disclosed. Trade-in values are expected to depend on:

• Vehicle age
• Usage (mileage)
• Physical and battery condition

Upgraded models will continue to qualify under the PM E-Drive scheme (formerly FAME), though final on-road pricing for upgrade customers will be clarified during the Bengaluru launch.

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What This Means for Current Owners

For Gen 1 and Gen 2 customers, this programme presents an opportunity to stay aligned with Ola’s latest battery and software ecosystem without completely exiting the brand.

If executed well, this could reinforce long-term brand loyalty and accelerate Gen 3 adoption across India’s urban EV markets.

If the programme is implemented smoothly and transparently, it could serve as a benchmark for EV lifecycle management in India. Whether it becomes a true structural reset will ultimately depend on pricing clarity and after-sales execution.

Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs

Q. What is the Ola Electric Gen 3 Upgrade Programme?

• It is an exchange initiative allowing existing Gen 1 and Gen 2 owners to upgrade to the new Gen 3 platform, which features Bharat 4680 battery cells.

Q. Which models are included in the Gen 3 upgrade?

• Eligible customers can upgrade to the S1 Z, S1 Gen 3, S1 Pro Gen 3, and the new Roadster motorcycle series.

Q. Where is the upgrade programme launching first?

• The pilot phase begins in Bengaluru before expanding to other Indian cities.

Q. Will PM E-Drive subsidies apply to upgraded vehicles?

• Yes, Gen 3 models will continue to benefit from PM E-Drive subsidies, subject to eligibility and final pricing confirmation.

Q. How will the exchange value be calculated?

• The valuation will depend on the scooter’s age, mileage, and overall condition. Detailed pricing matrices are expected at the launch event.

Q. Why is Ola shifting to 4680 Bharat cells?

• The 4680 Bharat cells offer improved energy density, better thermal efficiency, and manufacturing simplification, aligning with Ola’s long-term cost and performance strategy.