Apollo Explore 2.0

The Apollo Explore 2.0 is a single-motor, city-first electric scooter built to deliver serious punch without the heft or complexity of dual-motor machines. It blends torque-rich acceleration, a long-life battery, and low-maintenance braking into a commuter package that still feels playful after work. If you want an everyday ride that’s quick, smooth, and confidence-inspiring—yet still easy to live with—the Explore 2.0 hits that sweet spot.

What Is the Apollo Explore 2.0?

The Apollo Explore 2.0 is Apollo’s reimagined mid-class commuter scooter. It’s designed for riders who want real-world speed and range in a durable chassis but prefer the simplicity of a single rear hub motor. With a 48 V pack using 21700 cells in an IP66-sealed, UL-certified enclosure, triple-spring suspension, self-healing tubeless tires, and a front drum plus regenerative braking, it prioritizes reliability and everyday ease as much as outright performance. The cockpit includes a DOT-style display and deep app integration for tuning throttle response, regen feel, and ride modes.

How the Apollo Explore 2.0 Works

Electric scooters share a common recipe, but the Explore 2.0’s ingredients are tuned with commuters in mind.

• Motor: A rear hub motor delivers up to 1,600 W peak output. Because it’s in the wheel, there are no chains or belts, which keeps noise low and maintenance simple. Think of it like a quiet, instant-response turbine that lives inside the rear hub.
• Controller: Apollo’s MACH controller (rated to 30 A) manages power delivery. It decides how quickly the scooter ramps up torque when you press the throttle. The calibration here matters; it’s what makes the Explore 2.0 feel snappy off the line yet controllable in traffic.
• Battery: A 48 V, 13.5 Ah pack (about 648 Wh) stores energy. Built with 21700 cells and protected within an IP66 enclosure, it’s designed for longevity and safety (battery system certified to UL2271). Expect stronger voltage sustain under load compared to small-cell packs.
• Throttle: An ergonomic thumb throttle lets you modulate power without wrist strain. Small inputs translate to predictable acceleration, which helps with low-speed control around pedestrians and at intersections.
• Brakes: The Explore 2.0 pairs a front drum with Power RBS™ regenerative braking. You’ll feel a smooth deceleration as the motor converts momentum back into charge. Because regen handles most slowing, the mechanical system stays cleaner and wear remains low.

Key Specifications

The table below organizes the official specifications into clear blocks for quick scanning; values are presented in both imperial and metric units where applicable.

General

Performance & Power

Battery, Charging & Electrical

Build & Dimensions

Safety & Control

Features & Extras

Warranty & Compliance

Design & Build Quality

The Explore 2.0 feels purpose-built for city miles. The welded steel frame has a planted, monolithic character, and the widened, lengthened deck gives your stance room to breathe. Tall riders often feel cramped on compact scooters; here, the extra deck space eases foot placement so you can square up or stagger as traffic demands. Because the tires are tubeless and pre-filled with sealant, the day-to-day experience skews “grab and go,” not “pump and patch.”

The cockpit keeps information simple. The DOT-style display remains legible in daylight thanks to anti-glare treatment, while the thumb throttle sits exactly where your hand expects it. Because the regen control is integrated and progressive, you can modulate speed with a finger rather than constantly squeezing a lever. That reduces hand fatigue over longer commutes. And since the lighting is 360°, you’re visible from ahead, behind, and the sides—useful when lane-splitting bike traffic or crossing intersections at dusk.

Fit-and-finish reflects Apollo’s maturing design language. Cable routing is tidy, hardware is robust, and body panels feel solid at touch points. You won’t find rattly latches or flexy folding parts when properly adjusted. The overall impression is of a scooter that invites daily use and shrugs off typical city scuffs.

Performance Fundamentals

Off-the-line acceleration is where the Explore 2.0 makes its case. In Sport/Ludo, the scooter steps smartly from a standstill, reaching 15 mph in under three seconds. The key is how the MACH controller shapes the power curve. It feeds in current quickly enough to feel lively, yet predictably enough that you don’t upset balance at low speeds. In Normal mode, launches soften for smoother neighborhood riding; Eco trims peak power even further for efficiency.

Cruising stability remains excellent up to its capped top speed of 25 mph (40 km/h). The triple-spring suspension manages potholes, curb cuts, and expansion joints without bouncing you off line. Because the deck is longer, weight distribution feels natural—there’s room to shift your hips and settle into a neutral stance, which helps stability at speed.

Hill-climb behavior over 7–10% grades is confident for a single motor. Short, steep ramps are dispatched without drama; longer climbs are best attacked in Sport/Ludo to maintain momentum. You’ll feel voltage sag less with the 21700-cell battery under moderate loads than on small-cell packs, which keeps the scooter from feeling winded halfway up a hill. For truly sustained, steep ascents, plan to carry a bit more speed into the grade and keep cadence steady.

Battery, Range & Efficiency

On paper, the Explore 2.0’s 48 V, 13.5 Ah (≈ 648 Wh) pack delivers up to 37 mi (60 km) in ideal, Eco-mode conditions. Real-world range varies. Rider weight, tire pressure, wind, temperature, elevation, and average speed all play large roles. Heavier riders cruising at high speeds on cold days will see less; lighter riders who flow with traffic around 12–18 mph (20–30 km/h) will come closer to the claimed figure.

Regenerative braking adds efficiency. If you plan your commuting rhythm—coasting early, easing into regen instead of relying on mechanical bite—you’ll harvest small gains every stoplight. Over a week, those gains compound. Expect roughly single-digit percentage returns in typical city riding, with higher returns on rolling routes that encourage frequent, gentle deceleration.

Charging best practices:

• Use the 54.6 V, 1.5 A standard charger for overnight top-ups; budget ~8 hours from low state of charge.
• When time matters, a compatible fast charger cuts that to ~3 hours.
• Avoid storing the pack fully discharged or fully full for long periods; for multi-day storage, ~40–60% is a healthy window.
• In winter, bring the scooter (or battery area) into a mild environment before charging so the pack isn’t cold-soaked.
• Do periodic full cycles to let the battery management system re-calibrate state-of-charge accuracy.

Ride Quality & Comfort

Comfort starts with the triple-spring suspension and 10″ tubeless tires. Springs flatten sharp-edged hits while the larger tire diameter smooths chatter. Because the tires are tubeless and pre-sealed, puncture anxiety fades and the casings can run slightly higher pressures without going harsh. The result is a composed ride that remains lively rather than floaty.

Ergonomics are dialed for urban usage. The thumb throttle’s light action pairs well with regen modulation, so you can feather speed with minimal hand movement. The deck’s extra length lowers fatigue by letting you change stance often. Notably, stem flex is well controlled; there’s just enough give to take the sting out of harsh impacts while resisting wobble at speed when your weight is centered over the deck.

On mixed surfaces—pavers, worn asphalt, painted bike lanes—the street-tread rubber maintains predictable grip. Wet steel plates or damp leaves still demand caution, of course; roll off the throttle before slick sections and let regen scrub speed early.

Braking & Safety Features

The Explore 2.0’s everyday superpower is low-maintenance stopping. Power RBS™ regen does the lion’s share of work in typical commuting, turning your deceleration into battery trickle-charge. The front drum sits ready as a mechanical backup with consistent, weather-proof performance. Unlike disc systems, drums hide from road grit and hold their tune longer, which suits riders who prefer to ride more and wrench less.

Braking feel builds progressively. Light thumb pressure yields a gentle slow, perfect for creep-speed control in crosswalks. Press deeper and decel ramps decisively without skidding the front. Because regen matches suspension motion, the scooter stays planted over broken pavement while you’re slowing down.

Visibility is strong. A forward headlight throws a wide beam for night streets, while stem and deck-level body lights make side-on presence obvious. Add in front and rear turn signals plus a rear brake light and you’ve got a true 360° signature that stands out in traffic. The IP66 rating further bolsters safety by keeping water and dust away from critical electronics.

Portability & Daily Usability

At 60 lb (≈ 27 kg), the Explore 2.0 is solid but manageable for short carries—up a few stairs, into an elevator, or on/off a train platform. The folding mechanism brings the handlebar down to ~23.6 in (60 cm) tall in the folded position, which helps it slide under desks or into a hatchback trunk. Wide deck rails offer natural hand-holds if you prefer a two-handed carry.

For storage, favor a dry spot with moderate temperature. Because lighting is integrated and robust, you can plug in, set a charge timer, and park without fuss. For security, combine a quality U-lock or folding lock around the frame with a cable through a wheel if you must leave it outside. As always, remove add-ons like phone mounts when unattended.

Maintenance & Care

One of the Explore 2.0’s advantages is minimal routine upkeep. However, a light schedule keeps it feeling factory-fresh.

Before each ride (30 seconds):

• Check tire visual condition; top up pressures as needed (consult sidewall; typical 10″ tubeless commuter tires land around 35–50 psi / 2.4–3.4 bar depending on rider weight and comfort).
• Quick brake function check (roll the scooter and engage regen; squeeze the lever to verify mechanical backup).

Weekly (or every ~50 miles / 80 km):

• Inspect fasteners at stem, folding joint, and axle nuts; verify nothing is loosening.
• Wipe the deck and lights, especially after rain; clear debris from tread.

Monthly:

• Deeper bolt torque check on stem clamp and handlebar hardware.
• Evaluate brake drum linkage free-play and lever feel; adjust per the manual if needed.
• Review app for firmware updates; many include refinements to throttle, lighting, and regen behavior.

Seasonally:

• Inspect tire tread depth and sidewall cuts; rotate or replace if wear is uneven.
• Clean and re-grease folding mechanism if your area uses road salt.
• Perform a full battery calibration cycle (gentle run from ~90% down to ~15–20%, then charge to 100% without interruption).

Weather & Seasonal Considerations

The Explore 2.0’s IP66 rating means it’s built to handle wet commutes and dusty roads. Even so, ride judgment matters.

• Rain: Reduce speed, brake earlier with regen, and avoid painted lines or metal surfaces that spike slip risk. After the ride, wipe the scooter and give the brake linkage a quick dry.
• Heat: Batteries are happiest when kept cool. Park in shade when possible and let the pack rest before charging after a hard, hot run.
• Cold: Expect reduced range. Warm the scooter indoors before charging and consider higher tire pressures if soft surfaces and potholes are rare; otherwise keep comfort first.
• Storage: For multi-week pauses, store around 40–60% state of charge and in a dry, temperate spot.

Apollo Explore 2.0 vs Alternatives

The Explore 2.0 sits between entry-level commuters and heavy dual-motor performance machines.

• Versus budget commuters: It offers significantly more torque, richer lighting, bigger deck space, and better suspension. Those upgrades translate into safer merges, less fatigue, and calmer handling on rough streets.
• Versus lightweight last-mile scooters: It’s heavier and not as tossable, yet the stability and braking headroom make daily rides less stressful. If you face mixed traffic or rolling hills, the Explore 2.0’s reserve matters.
• Versus high-power dual-motors: Top-end speed and uphill dominance go to the duals. Nevertheless, the Explore 2.0 counters with lower maintenance, easier carrying, and friendlier battery consumption. You get much of the “feel fast” sensation without taking on big-scooter bulk.
• Versus off-road-leaning models: Knobby tires and long-travel suspension win on dirt, but the Explore 2.0’s street-tuned rubber and triple springs are the better match for potholes, curbs, and painted lanes.

In short, the Explore 2.0 shines for riders who prioritize urban agility, solid range, and a maintenance-light routine over highest-possible speed.

To see what’s coming next in this class, check out the most anticipated electric scooters launching in 2025 for added context on where mid-class commuters are headed.

Who the Apollo Explore 2.0 Is (and Isn’t) For

Great for:

• Daily commuters who want brisk acceleration for traffic gaps and strong, predictable braking.
• Students and city riders who appreciate an all-weather rating, bright lighting, and a comfortable deck for longer days.
• Multi-modal travelers who need a scooter that folds compactly enough for trains, rideshares, and small elevators.
• Riders who dislike wrenching and prefer regen-heavy braking and self-healing tires.

Think twice if:

• You demand above-25 mph cruising or plan frequent long, steep climbs. A dual-motor platform may fit better.
• You need ultra-light last-mile portability. At 60 lb, the Explore 2.0 is sturdy rather than featherweight.
• You want heavy off-road focus. Street-tread tires and city-calibrated suspension favor asphalt.

FAQs

1) Is the Explore 2.0 fast enough for city commuting?
Yes. It reaches 25 mph (40 km/h), which is plenty for bike lanes and urban arterials where consistency, braking, and visibility matter more than outright top speed.

2) How far can I ride on one charge?
In Eco mode and ideal conditions, up to 37 mi (60 km). Most riders will see less in mixed traffic, cold weather, or hilly routes. Smart use of regen helps stretch range.

3) Does the Explore 2.0 handle rain?
It’s rated IP66, so it’s built for wet commutes. Still, slow down on slick surfaces and dry the scooter after riding in the rain.

4) How much maintenance does it need?
Very little. Tubeless self-healing tires plus regen-first braking mean fewer pad changes and flats. Do periodic bolt checks, pressure checks, and firmware updates.

5) Can I climb steep hills?
Yes, short ramps up to 25° are within its envelope. For longer climbs, use Sport/Ludo mode and carry some speed into the grade.

6) What’s included in the warranty?
Major components carry a 12-month warranty, and the frame is covered up to 10,000 km (6,250 mi). Always keep receipts and follow the maintenance basics.

7) Where can I find an “Apollo Explore 2.0 overview” in one place?
You’re reading it—this article consolidates the core details, ride impressions, and ownership tips in a single, easy reference.

Glossary

• Ah (Amp-hour): Battery capacity measurement. Higher Ah generally means more stored energy at the same voltage.
• Wh (Watt-hour): Capacity × voltage; a direct proxy for total energy.
• Controller: The scooter’s “brain” that regulates current flow to the motor for smooth acceleration.
• Regen (Regenerative braking): Using the motor to slow the scooter and recharge the battery.
• Stem flex: The small, controlled give in the steering column; can improve comfort but too much hurts stability.
• IP rating: Ingress Protection; IP66 means dust-tight and protected against strong water jets.
• Deck: The platform where you stand; size and grip influence comfort and control.
• Hub motor: A motor built into the wheel hub; quiet, compact, and low-maintenance.
• Torque: The rotational force from the motor; more torque equals better launches and hill starts.
• Ludo (Sport) mode: A high-output mode that unlocks quicker acceleration and the full top speed.
• BMS: Battery Management System; protects against over/under-voltage, over-current, and temperature extremes.
• Self-healing tire: Tubeless tire with sealant that can close small punctures as you ride.
• Drum brake: Enclosed brake type that resists weather and contamination, requiring less frequent service.
• DOT display: High-legibility display designed for clarity and glare resistance.
• Ground clearance: The space between deck bottom and the ground; more clearance helps with curbs and bumps.

Final Notes on Real-World Use

Commuters often judge a scooter by feel more than figures. The Explore 2.0’s feel is coherent: the MACH controller delivers torque that you can meter precisely; the triple-spring hardware and larger tubeless casings soak up rough patches; and the lighting suite keeps you seen from all angles. Meanwhile, regen takes daily wear off the mechanical brake and returns a bit of energy to the pack—small advantages that accumulate over months of riding.

As with any scooter, range is a system result rather than a single number. Keep tire pressures in the sweet spot, ride in the smoother middle of the throttle, and time regen instead of waiting for last-second braking. Those habits pay you back in calmness, safety, and miles.

Specifications

Price Comparison

Price History