Key highlights:
- Ather Energy recently homologated two new scooters in India, the 450X HR and 450S HR, which are based on the 450 series.
- CEO Tarun Mehta hinted at a special edition model called Series 2, featuring transparent panels, likely to be a new gen 450X.
- The new Ather electric scooters are expected to receive significant software upgrades in the battery management system, improving thermal efficiency and range.
Ather Energy, the renowned electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is all set to launch a family-oriented electric scooter. With a strong focus on comfort, ample size, and cutting-edge features, this new addition to Ather’s EV portfolio is expected to address the limitations of its previous models, the 450X and the 450S.
Ather’s new E-scooter:
After a decade of perfecting their flagship model, the 450X, the company’s CEO and Co-Founder, Tarun Mehta, acknowledged the demand for a bigger, family-oriented scooter. In a recent social media post, Mehta confirmed the development of this highly anticipated electric scooter, designed “with your entire family in mind.” Ather aims to launch this game-changing scooter in India in 2024.
Time for a family scooter.... and more!
— Tarun Mehta (@tarunsmehta) November 22, 2023
After spending a decade perfecting the Ather 450, we now believe that there's demand for something more.
So many folks love @atherenergy as a brand but want a bigger, family-oriented scooter from us. That's why we're gearing up to launch…
Design and Features:
Taking a conventional design approach, the new Ather electric scooter boasts a flat front apron with minimal cuts and creases. Spy shots reveal more generous proportions than the 450 series, with a wider saddle featuring a single piece grabrail, a spacious floorboard area, and larger mirrors. The scooter sports a horizontally placed headlamp and taillamp, foldable pillion footrests, and all-LED lighting. It is expected to have smartphone connectivity, the 450S-derived Deep View display, ride modes, and multiple readouts.
The transparent panel will be back!
— Tarun Mehta (@tarunsmehta) November 10, 2023
And this time by God, it won't be translucent only.
Transparency ahead! pic.twitter.com/7xYeaECHCW
Battery and Performance
While the new Ather scooter’s design sets it apart, it will likely borrow mechanical components from the 450 series. However, the motor is expected to be differently tuned for enhanced range and improved performance, catering to the needs of urban commuters.
The 450S currently utilises a 2.9kWh battery pack with a claimed range of 115km, while the 450X offers two battery options: a 2.9kWh battery with a 111km range and a larger 3.7kWh battery with a 150km range. The upcoming family scooter is anticipated to deliver even better performance and range.
Pricing and Competition
To make electric scooters more accessible to urban commuters, Ather Energy aims to price the new family-oriented scooter below its current 450 lineup. This strategic move will expand Ather’s customer base and intensify competition in the Indian market. The Ather 450 series, including the updated 450X and the 450S HR variants, competes with popular electric scooters like the Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube, and Ola S1.
Ather’s Future Plans: New 450 Model
In addition to the highly anticipated family scooter, Ather Energy is also preparing to launch an updated version of the 450 in early 2024. This new iteration of the 450 series aims to offer better performance, a revised design, and additional features. The advanced features and improvements in the new model are expected to command a premium over the existing 450.
