The automotive industry has been steadily moving towards new energy vehicles with high focus on electric vehicles. In India too, government agencies as well as vehicle manufacturers are bracing up to embrace electromobility – their capabilities highlighted at the 2018 Auto Expo. Bengaluru-based start-up Ather Energy was not present at the 2018 Auto Expo, but has been plugging away on electric scooters over the past four years. The company had first showcased the concept of this electric scooter (then called Ather S340) in 2016. Ather Energy has now launched two variants of this scooter – Ather 450 and 340 that are expected to be delivered to customers in a month’s time. Auto Tech Review got an opportunity to experience a quick ride of the Ather 450 electric scooter. We bring you a quick perspective on its features as well as the ride experience.
DESIGN
While almost all electric scooters sold in India have had quirky design elements, Ather’s electric scooters have been designed ground-up keeping the Indian consumer in mind. Although the design elements are non-traditional in nature, it still provides an acceptable exterior. Smart elements like the pillion footrest shows how Ather has opted for a design that not only breaks away from the regular path, but also offers better usability than traditional designs. The body panels comprise plastic composites, resulting in low weight with sufficient strength. There is an exposed part of the frame towards the front of the seat, which is painted green, and adds to the scooter’s design aesthetics. The scooter’s swingarm is also another element worth mentioning, as it not only serves as an import component that holds the rear together, but also has a neat look in the way it is integrated into the overall design.The switchgear of the 450 is well put together, and has high quality standards. The scooter has well-designed rear-view mirrors, but the manner in which the mirror and stocks work provides a limited range of adjustments leading to poor rear visibility. The Ather 450 may be suitable for riders with a height of up to about 5 feet 10 inches.POWERTRAIN
The Ather 450 is powered by a Brushless DC (BLDC) electric motor that offers continuous power of 3.3 kW, which peaks at 5.4 kW, providing maximum torque of 20.5 Nm. This motor helps the electric scooter reach a top speed of 80 km/h, with 0-40 km/h acceleration in 3.9 s and a gradeability of 18°. Both the motor and controller are water and dust-resistant in accordance with IP66 and IP65 rating, respectively.
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