Ather Energy, the smart electric two-wheeler start-up, today announced it has signed an agreement with Sanmina Corporation, a leading integrated manufacturing solutions company headquartered in San Jose, California, to develop and manufacture key components designed by Ather for its maiden scooter – the Ather S340 – slated to be launched in June 2018.

As part of the agreement, Sanmina will exclusively manufacture Ather’s charging system, battery management systems and dashboard at its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chennai.

Speaking on the agreement, Tarun Mehta, CEO and co-founder of Ather Energy, said, “We value a manufacturing partner like Sanmina, with expertise in battery management systems and electric vehicles, who is as excited as we are about this market. In a smart scooter like the S340, integrating the power circuits with each other, the onboard charger and the charging stations is of paramount importance. Sanmina and Ather have designed a system that offers the utmost efficiency with the highest levels of safety.”  

Mike Landy, Sanmina’s EVP and COO of EMS for Asia and Europe said, “Sanmina is excited to partner with Ather Energy. We are impressed with the sophisticated design and innovative technology in the S340. Sanmina specialises in mission critical products and electronics, and we are proud to collaborate with Ather Energy.”

Co-founded in 2013 by IIT graduates – Tarun Mehta and Swapnil Jain – Ather Energy is one the few hardware start-ups in India. The company designing India’s first truly intelligent electric scooter is backed by the founders of Flipkart, Tiger Global and Hero Motocorp.

Designed from scratch, the S340 is customised to Indian conditions and riding sensibilities. A top speed of 72kph, a range of up to 60km and an acceleration of 0-40kph in 7.3 sec, it is designed as an urban runabout and the typical stop-and-go city ride. Equipped with a 7-inch interactive dashboard and an integrated app, it has features like onboard navigation, remote diagnostics and over-the-air updates for future improvements. Ather Energy says it is currently developing a comprehensive public charging infrastructure, starting with Bangalore followed by Chennai and Pune.