Ather announces the 450S, a new variant based on its 450 platform

Electric scooter manufacturer Ather Energy has announced a new variant, the 450S, which will be powered by a 3 kWh battery pack and is expected to have an IDC (Indian Driving Conditions) range of 115 km and a top speed of 90 km/h. Its starting price is Rs 1,29,999 (exclusive of state subsidy), the press release noted.

Tarun Mehta, Co-founder and CEO, Ather Energy, said, “The 450 platform has been immensely successful for us, and we wanted to make it available to a wider set of buyers. The 450S will be our new entry-level variant for those looking to enter the electric segment but are seeking the quality and assurance that Ather scooters provide.”

Ather Experience Centres across the country will start accepting bookings for the new 450S from July onwards, the press release noted.

Following the FAME II subsidy revision applicable from today, Ather has revised the prices of its scooters effective today. The FAME II subsidy, one of the important levers that accelerated EV adoption in India, is revised to Rs 10,000 per kWh with a maximum cap of 15% of the ex-factory price.

“The FAME II revision has resulted in a subsidy reduction of around Rs 32,000. However, Ather is absorbing a huge chunk of this price impact for its customers with a view to quickening EV adoption in the country. Starting today, our best-selling scooter - 450X with Pro Pack will be available at Rs 165,000 (ex-showroom Bengaluru), which is just marginally higher than prices in March 2023," said Ravneet S. Phokela, Chief Business Officer, Ather Energy. 

He added that they have tried to contain the prices as much as possible in the interest of their customers and have registered the lowest price hike in the industry post the FAME II subsidy reduction. The enormous price absorption, coupled with offering 700W home fast charger and Ather Grid access up to 3 kW, adds immense value to the customers paying an incremental price post the subsidy revision, Phokela added. 

Starting today, the Ather 450X will be available at Rs 1,45,000 (ex-showroom Bengaluru) and Rs 1,65,000 for the 450X with Pro Pack, which is being offered as an accessory (ex-showroom Bengaluru).