[TusharK]

Ravneet Phokela, Chief Business Officer, Ather Energy, has confirmed that the company is working on a third model based on the Ather 450 platform. The model is currently in the advanced stages of development and is expected to be launched in the first quarter of FY2023.



What's more interesting is the fact that the new model will offer customers an alternative to the Ola S1 and Simple One electric scooter, which undercut the Ather 450X in terms of pricing. It is said that that Ather's new e-scooter could be priced under Rs. 1 lakh.

Earlier, patent images of Ather's upcoming electric scooter had leaked online. The maxi-scooter styled model has a large front apron with an integrated windshield. It could be powered by the same electric motor and battery combination as the Ather 450X. However, it is unclear if this is the same sub-Rs. 1 lakh e-scooter that is due in 2023.

At present, Ather Energy offers two variants of the 450 - the 450 Plus and 450X, priced at Rs. 1,13,000 and Rs. 1,32,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi), respectively.

Source: Autocar Professional

[sri_tesla]

I have read that article and felt it’s not worth sharing. Comments from the article felt like a template from a traditional automaker not a startup like Ather.

However, Ravneet Phokela, chief business officer, Ather Energy is not worried. Speaking to Autocar Professional, he said, “If better specs ensured more sales, the TVS NTorq scores over the Honda Activa but the sales numbers reflect a different picture.” He added that people buy into an overall proposition coming from a brand and what it stands for which goes beyond its specs. “Model specifications are important because they define a basic threshold — but it is about how overall specs come together, how relevant they are for the customers, the experience they get, the ride quality and so on.”

Honestly, none of the companies that have currently EVs on the market (Ather, TVS, Bajaj, Revolt, etc…) does not have an insurmountable first-mover advantage. All these have limited availability, average range, higher prices. Whatever the smart features advertised are not working most of the time.

Indian customers deserve decent EV choices at least in the 2 wheeler segment. The central govt and many state governments are doing a great job in providing subsidies, tax cuts, etc… It’s up to the industry to pull up their socks now.