The Turboant V8 impresses with its range and ride quality, though its motor performance and hefty build hold it back.
Our review score is based on thorough real-world testing and is always held up against comparable models.
How We TestValues marked with '*' are based on our independent testing and may differ from those specified by the manufacturer.
We tested the Turboant V8 electric scooter for over 250 miles to find out just how good it is. Discover our performance test results below as we take a deep dive into the popular V8.
The Turboant V8 reached the market in Q2 of 2022 and has since become a staple name in the commuter scooter category.
The V8 dual-battery scooter one-ups other Turboants (and many other commuter scooters) with 450W of motor power and 640 Wh of battery capacity.
But how does it perform in the real world? We tested it and held it up against a range of comparable scooters to see if it was worth the money.
First, let's establish the main specifications as described by the manufacturer.
| Motor & Power | 450W front motor |
| Battery Type | 2 * 36V, 7.5Ah lithium-ion |
| Battery Capacity | 540 Wh |
| Weight | 47.6 lbs (21.6 kg) |
| Max Load | 275 lbs (124.7 kg) |
| Tires | 9.3" pneumatic tubed tires |
| Suspension | Pneumatic tires, spring suspension |
| Brakes | Rear disc brake, E-ABS |
The Turboant V8 has a 450W, 36V front wheel hub motor. This makes it the most powerful motor in the Turboant lineup. Turboant advertises a 20 MPH (32.2 KMH) max speed for the V8.
With its bigger front-placed motor, you'd think the Turboant V8 would run corners around the X7 Max and M10.
| Model | Top Speed |
|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 19.41 MPH (31.2 KMH) |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 19.55 MPH (31.5 KMH) |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 19.57 MPH (31.5 KMH) |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 17.3 MPH (27.8 KMH) |
| Hiboy S2 | 18.9 MPH (30.4 KMH) |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 18.4 MPH (29.6 KMH) |
| Atomi Alpha | 20.8 MPH (33.5 KMH) |
However, based on our high-accuracy performance tests, it surprisingly lost out to both of the X7s by an inch. It did outperform scooters like the M10 and Ninebot Max, but the difference isn't night and day.
I attribute the V8 losing out to its sister scooters to its smaller tires and heavier build. Still, the V8 finds itself somewhere in the middle of in-class scooters regarding top speed.
| Interval | Average | Best |
|---|---|---|
| 0-15 MPH (24 KMH) | 8.51 s | 7.23 s |
| 0-19.41 MPH (31.2 KMH) | 16.69 s | 16.1 s |
Based on our tests (by a 170 lbs rider), the Turboant V8 accelerates to 15 MPH in 8.51 seconds on average with the fastest time being 7.23 seconds.
The top speed is reached in 16.69 seconds on average with the fastest run being 16.1 seconds.
| Model | 0-15 MPH | 0-20 MPH |
|---|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 8.51 s | - |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 8.29 s | - |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 4.34 s | - |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 8.83 s | - |
| Hiboy S2 | 6.89 s | - |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 5.85 s | - |
| Atomi Alpha | 6.71 s | 11.82 s |
Holding it up against its close competitors, the bulkier build once seems to affect acceleration notably.
The X7 Max beats the V8 with a clear margin, but it still holds up against the market-leading Ninebot MAX G30, so it isn't bad by any means.
The Hiboy S2 is the clear outlier, offering stellar acceleration compared to its price, but it suffers highly in ride comfort.
To see how the Turboant V8 handles hills, we tested it across 250 ft (76 m) at a 8% incline. The run was completed in 29.2 seconds with an average speed of 5.8 MPH (9.4 KMH).
| Model | Time | Speed |
|---|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 29.2 s | 5.8 MPH (9.4 KMH) |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 26.3 s | 6.5 MPH (10.4 KMH) |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 22.4 s | 7.6 MPH (12.2 KMH) |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 30.48 s | 5.6 MPH (9 KMH) |
| Hiboy S2 | 26.7 s | 6.4 MPH (10.3 KMH) |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 28.8 s | 5.9 MPH (9.5 KMH) |
| Atomi Alpha | 25.3 s | 6.7 MPH (10.8 KMH) |
Following the trend from earlier motor performance tests, the V8 loses out to a handful of other commuting scooters while still being the KQi2 Pro and Max G30.
Despite boasting a more powerful motor than many competitors, the V8 has more weight to carry. This evens out any performance boost to where it should perform like the X7s (or slightly worse).
The V8 offers a unique dual-battery setup, with the stem battery being detachable. Both batteries are 36V, 7.5 Ah totaling a 540 Wh effective battery capacity. The battery cells are from DMEGC Solar.
Turboant has always focused on swappable batteries, but this is the first time we see a dual-battery setup. While the deck battery is integrated into the scooter chassis, the stem battery can be removed as needed.
This adds flexibility for both transportation and charging. Maybe more notably, it allows for dual charging so that you can ride again in no time. The scooter comes with a charging dock for the stem battery and two charging adapters to support this technology.
Total charging time is just below 4 hours in our tests when running the batteries separately.
| Model | Battery Capacity |
|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 540 Wh (36V, 15Ah) |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 360 Wh (36V, 10Ah) |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 281 Wh (31.2V, 9Ah) |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 365 Wh (48V, 7.6Ah) |
| Hiboy S2 | 270 Wh (36V, 7.5Ah) |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 551 Wh (36V, 15.3Ah) |
| Atomi Alpha | 360 Wh (36V, 10Ah) |
Looking at the battery capacity versus the price, this is where the V8 starts to gain ground on many competitors. Out of the entire Turboant range, the V8 gives you the most battery juice for your money.
It also comfortably beats the Atomi Alpha, Unagi E500, and Max G30 by a comfortable margin. The NIU KQi2 Pro comes close at the time of writing this review, but it still loses out to the V8 slightly.
Battery capacity is one thing, but with its heavier build, will the Turboant V8 lose out to more lightweight scooters?
We tested the Turboant V8's range at three different speeds.
| Test (#) | Range | Avg. Speed |
|---|---|---|
| #1: Speed Priority | 18.9 miles 30.4 km | 17.8 MPH 28.6 KMH |
| #2: Regular | 21.3 miles 34.3 km | 15.1 MPH 24.3 KMH |
| #3: Range Priority | 25.4 miles 40.9 km | 12.6 MPH 20.3 KMH |
In the first test, we prioritize speed, holding the throttle down as much as possible. Averaging 17.8 MPH (28.6 KMH), we clocked 18.9 miles (30.4 km) of range.
In the second test, we rode like we regularly would when out on a scooter. This is what we consider the most comparable real-world test. At 15.1 MPH (24.3 KMH), we got 21.3 miles (34.3 km) of range.
In the last test, we prioritize range by maintaining a low average speed. At an average speed of 12.6 MPH (20.3 KMH), we got 25.4 miles (40.9 km) of range.
We performed the same test on a range of comparable scooters. Let's see how the V8 fairs against them.
| Model | Range | Avg. Speed |
|---|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 18.9 miles (30.4 km) | 17.8 MPH (28.6 KMH) |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 13.4 miles (21.6 km) | 17.9 MPH (28.8 KMH) |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 8.32 miles (13.4 km) | 14.7 MPH (23.7 KMH) |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 17.2 miles (27.7 km) | 16.4 MPH (26.4 KMH) |
| Hiboy S2 | 9.4 miles (15.1 km) | 17.1 MPH (27.5 KMH) |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 27.6 miles (44.4 km) | 17.0 MPH (27.4 KMH) |
| Atomi Alpha | 16.3 miles (26.2 km) | 17.9 MPH (28.8 KMH) |
| Model | Range | Avg. Speed |
|---|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 21.3 miles (34.3 km) | 15.1 MPH (24.3 KMH) |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 15.4 miles (24.8 km) | 14.8 MPH (23.8 KMH) |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 9.33 miles (15 km) | 12.6 MPH (20.3 KMH) |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 19.8 miles (31.9 km) | 14.9 MPH (24 KMH) |
| Hiboy S2 | 11.4 miles (18.3 km) | 14.3 MPH (23 KMH) |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 30.3 miles (48.8 km) | 14.7 MPH (23.7 KMH) |
| Atomi Alpha | 18.9 miles (30.4 km) | 15 MPH (24.1 KMH) |
| Model | Range | Avg. Speed |
|---|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 25.4 miles (40.9 km) | 12.6 MPH (20.3 KMH) |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 18.2 miles (29.3 km) | 12.5 MPH (20.1 KMH) |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 11.12 miles (17.9 km) | 10.4 MPH (16.7 KMH) |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 22.3 miles (35.9 km) | 12.7 MPH (20.4 KMH) |
| Hiboy S2 | 13.2 miles (21.2 km) | 12.1 MPH (19.5 KMH) |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 34.5 miles (55.5 km) | 11.9 MPH (19.2 KMH) |
| Atomi Alpha | 21.2 miles (34.1 km) | 12.9 MPH (20.8 KMH) |
With its large dual battery design, the Turboant V8 greatly outperforms other Turboant scooters and a vast range of in-class competitors. It is only really surpassed by the G30 which - with the same battery capacity - yields about 20% more range across the board.
All in all, the adaptable range with two batteries is one of the main selling points of the Turboant V8, and it is safe to say that it delivers on that.
At 47.6 lbs (21.6 kg), the Turboant V8 is a bulky scooter. A lot of that weight can be attributed to the batteries. However, it still has things going for it in terms of portability.
| Model | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 47.6 lbs | 21.6 kg |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 34.2 lbs | 15.5 kg |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 26.5 lbs | 12 kg |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 40.6 lbs | 18.4 kg |
| Hiboy S2 | 31.9 lbs | 14.5 kg |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 41.2 lbs | 18.7 kg |
| Atomi Alpha | 36.8 lbs | 16.7 kg |
Holding it up against other entry-level to mid-class electric scooters, the V8 is one of the heaviest options out there. This is the price you pay for more range.
Apart from that, I can't help but feel the scooter is a bit bulky as a whole.
Folded dimensions are 45.7 * 19.9 * 18.1 inches while unfolded dimensions are 45.7 * 19.9 * 45.5 inches.
However, compared to the Ninebot Max G30, its physical footprint is only about 2.3% bigger. When folded, the Ninebot Max G30 is actually 8.2% bigger.
Despite its higher weight, it doesn't take up more space than many competitors. It is just more bulky in appearance and has a thicker frame, which can improve its strength and rigidity, but we will get into that in the build quality section later.
The Turboant V8 folds at the stem with a single lever and clicks into place in a neatly floating position over the deck. This removes the tedious step of latching the handlebars into the rear mudguard/fender, a design seen on many scooters. Props to Turboant for that.
The handlebars do not fold, but folding handlebars is a feature we see many brands steer away from as it hasn't been tackled properly just yet. It'd often result in play in the handlebars, negatively affecting ride quality and stability.
Lastly, the Turboant V8's weight distribution is even when it is folded, making it easy to carry and balance in your arms.
The Turboant V8 has excellent ride quality thanks to pneumatic tires, solid braking, smooth handling, and spring suspension.
The V8 features 9.3*2-inch tubed pneumatic tires and rear dual spring suspension for a smooth ride that very few mid-tier scooters can compete with.
Very few scooters at this price point offer both spring suspension and pneumatic tires, so if ride quality is a priority, the V8 is an excellent option.
There is very little to improve upon regarding ride quality for the V8, but if we're nitpicking, we would've liked to see 10-inch pneumatic tires without tubes and with a bit more width.
The V8 is also available with solid honeycomb tires. We highly recommend pneumatic tires for ride comfort. However, if solid tires are a must, the 9.5" honeycomb option is available.
The brake lever controls the rear disc brake along with electronic regenerative braking. Stopping power is excellent thanks to the sizable disc rotor, but I find the electronic braking to be a bit too abrupt/strong initially.
It would be nice to have the option to adjust the level of e-braking through the settings menu, but it isn't a dealbreaker.
| Model | Braking Distance |
|---|---|
| TurboAnt V8 | 13.9 ft (4.2 m) |
| TurboAnt X7 Max | 15.2 ft (4.6 m) |
| Unagi Model One E500 | 22.6 ft (6.9 m) |
| NIU KQi2 Pro | 14.6 ft (4.5 m) |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 12.6 ft (3.8 m) |
| Atomi Alpha | 15.9 ft (4.8 m) |
In our tests, the V8 can go from 15 MPH to a full stop in 13.9 feet. This is a very solid score.
Compared to other scooters of the same price and ability, the Turboant V8 is up there with the best, but it loses out to the Ninebot MAX G30 by a little over 1 foot. Still, this is up there with the best at the price point.
The V8 has a large deck that measures 18.9 by 6.9 inches (48 by 17.5 cm). This is an excellent size for adults on riders with large feet. It has a rugged rubber surface that is easy to clean yet still provides a strong grip for your feet.
The scooter has 4.6 inches (11.7 cm) of ground clearance up to the deck. This is at the rather small end so keep that in mind when riding up or down curbs and similar obstacles to avoid scratching the underside of the scooter.
The V8 has wide, comfortable handlebars measuring 19.7 inches (50 cm) across. This and the spacious deck make it a great scooter for bigger riders.
A little counterintuitive, the deck-to-handlebar height is only 37.4 inches (95 cm). Therefore it arguably favors riders with large feet and a wide build instead of really tall riders who'll find the scooter too short.
The cockpit features threaded rubber handlebars, a thumb throttle with a power button, an LED display, a brake lever, and a bell.
The thumb throttle is comfortable to use, and there isn't a lot of dead space. Acceleration is gradual and easy to control.
The LED display is large that is angled well. It displays speed, battery levels, light settings, and speed modes. The large size is good, but like most cheap electric scooters, it lacks visibility in direct sunlight.
The bell is fairly standard. It does its job nicely and sits conveniently beside the brake lever.
The Turboant V8 is as tough and sturdy as it looks. A beastly frame and ample lighting make it a safe and reliable ride night and day.
Since its dawn, Turboant has built its business on tried and tested electric scooter designs. The V8 is no exception to that.
Most of the crucial parts are made from aluminum alloy, and the deck is further strengthened with steel below the rubber surface.
Both fenders are made from sturdy, thick plastic so they won't crack easily. The rear fender sits snugly around the rear tire to ensure you won't fall victim to any splash damage in dirty/wet riding conditions. Additionally, a protective frame at the rear end of the deck covers the rear fender.
The folding mechanism functions really. It folds down using a single lever pull in a matter of seconds and unfolds in the same way. We found that there is no stem wobble/play from the folding mechanism which is a shortcoming some other scooters have.
The scooter has a 275 lbs max load rating. While the scooter's construction may be able to handle that weight, you'll likely see poor motor performance above 225 lbs.
Weather resistance is becoming increasingly important as more people rely on electric scooters for daily commuting.
The Turboant V8 electric scooter holds an IP54 weather resistance rating. This means it is protected against any harmful dust ingress and water splashes from any direction.
So, what does this mean in the real world? Can you ride it in the rain? We generally recommend riding as little in the rain as possible, but an IP54 rating should be sufficient for light to moderate rain for shorter periods.
Avoid puddles as best as possible and always dry down your scooter after a wet ride.
Scooter companies do not cover water damage, and an IP rating is no guarantee.
The Turboant V8 has a solid lighting setup consisting of a main front headlight, a rear taillight, and four deck lights - two at the front and two at the back.
Lights can be toggled on and off by simply pressing the power button once. The taillight blinks when braking, making other road users aware that you are slowing down.
The lighting setup is well above average in this price class, but we would've liked to see a few reflectors at the sides. With the wide hexagonal stem, there's plenty of room for that. However, it is a cheap modification to make yourself if you want extra visibility.
The Turboant V8 is an excellent electric scooter for riders that value (adaptive) range and ride quality on a budget over other features.
It has solid value for your money, but it is a heavy (albeit solidly built) scooter, so if you're looking for something ultra-portable, there are better options out there.
The V8 is also a solid choice for bigger riders thanks to its spacious deck, wide handlebars, and 275 lbs load capacity. However, the handlebar height could've been taller for 6'5" riders and above. Also, the motor performance isn't impressive, so riders over 225 lbs may find the power insufficient.
There are several settings and features that can be adjusted/operated on the V8. Here's how to use them:
| Feature | How To |
|---|---|
| Change speed mode (1, 2, 3) | Double-press the power button |
| Toggle lights | Press the power button once |
| Enable cruise control | Maintain a steady speed and hold throttle for 6 seconds |
| Disable cruise control | Press the throttle or engage the brakes |
| Top speed | 19.41 MPH (31.2 KMH) |
| Acceleration 0-15 MPH | Avg: 8.51 s Best: 7.23 s |
| Acceleration 0-20.8 MPH | Avg: 16.69 s Best 16.1 s |
| Hill climb 250ft @8% | 29.2 s |
| Range (speed priority) | 18.9 miles (30.4 km) |
| Range (regular) | 21.3 miles (34.3 km) |
| Range (range priority) | 25.4 miles (40.9 km) |
| Handlebar width | 19.7" (50 cm) |
| Deck size | 18.9" x 6.9" (48 cm x 17.5 cm) |
| Ground clearance | 4.6" (11.7 cm) |
| Deck-to-handlebars | 37.4" (95 cm) |
| Brand | Turboant |
| Released | 2022 Q2 |
| Top speed | 20 MPH (32 KMH) |
| Motor power | 450W |
| Range | 25-50 miles (40-80 km) |
| Battery | 2*7.5 36V lithium-ion |
| Battery capacity | 540 Wh |
| Cell origin | DMEGC Solar |
| Charging time | 4 hours (dual charging) 8 hours (single charging) |
| IP rating | IP54 |
| Weight | 47.6 lbs (21.6 kg) |
| Max load | 275 lbs (125 kg) |
| Tire type | Pneumatic, tubed |
| Tire size | 9.3 x 2 inches |
| Suspension | Dual rear springs |
| Brakes | E-ABS, disc brake |
| Folded size | 45.7 x 19.9 x 18.1 in (116 x 50.5 x 46 cm) |
| Unfolded size | 45.7 x 19.9 x 45.5 in (116 x 50.5 x 115.5 cm) |
