Ather Energy appears to be developing a less expensive, sub-Rs 1 lakh electric scooter. Ather Energy currently sells the 450 Plus electric scooter and the more sophisticated 450X electric scooter. The cost of the Ather 450 Plus is Rs 1,18,895. Ather 450X is priced at Rs. 1,41,905. Both are effective rates in New Delhi and come with a performance improvement, FAME II, state subsidies, and Ather Dot/portable charger.
On the internet, a spy photo of Ather’s new electric scooter is circulating, and it might be the less expensive model. The 450X has a 6.2kW/26Nm permanent magnet synchronous motor paired with a 3.7kWh lithium-ion battery, as opposed to the 450 Plus’s 5.4kW/22Nm motor and 3.7kWh lithium-ion battery. The genuine range of the 450 Plus is between 60 and 85 kilometres, whereas that of the 450X is between 65 and 105 kilometres.
Although there may be substantial differences in the features of the reasonably inexpensive Ather electric scooter, we do not anticipate it to hit the market anytime soon. This is due to the company’s extensive R&D and field testing prior to the release of any new products. As a result, there are less instances of malfunctioning Ather electric scooters. Ather won’t release the product until and unless it satisfies the highest requirements.
The company sold 59,413 units in 2022, an increase of 224% year over year. With sales increasing 329% year over year to 12,149 units, it started off 2023 on a very good note.
Recent releases include the entry-level S1 Air electric scooter from rival startup Ola. The price of the S1 Air ranges from Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 1.10 lakh, depending on the battery pack.
Beginning in April 2023, Phase II of the new battery standards established by MoRTH will take effect. The enforcement is necessary due to the increasing number of recorded EV fire incidents, which are probably caused by batteries with poor construction. Manufacturers of EVs in the L, M, and N categories must comply with Amendment-3 to AIS 156 and AIS 038 Rev.2 by April 2023. Two phases made up Amendment-3 of the aforementioned AIS, as published by MoRTH. Phase I went into effect on December 1, 2022, while Phase II is scheduled to begin on March 31, 2023. The new battery norms established by a panel under Amendment-3 should be met by electric scooters, which fall under L category.
Considering the updated battery technology will increase the price, Ather might exclude several features from the future low-cost scooter. The aluminium space frame of the 450X will be foremost among those. The tubular frame of the new chassis is more easily manufactured.