Ather Electric Scooters To Use Chinese LFP Batteries From CBAK: Benefits Explained
The Bangalore-based electric scooter manufacturer Ather Energy will soon be making a transition from NMC batteries to LFP batteries. For this, the company has recently partnered with the Chinese battery manufacturing giant CBAK Energy Technology. This company produces lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. As for the choice of Ather, the company has provided CBAK with an order for sourcing its popular Model 32140 cylinder LFP cells.
Ather Energy to switch to LFP batteries
As per CBAK Energy Technology, its subsidiary Nanjing CBAK New Energy Technology Co. Ltd. will be sourcing the LFP cells for Ather. For those who may not be aware, Ather Energy currently utilizes Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) batteries, which are produced by Amara Raja Advanced Cell Technologies. This transition is taking place as the LFP-celled batteries provide better efficiency, longer life, and improved safety.
Which cells has Ather Energy opted for?
CBAK Energy Technology has announced that Ather Energy has opted for their Model 32140 cells, which are advanced cylindrical-format lithium-ion batteries. These have a 32 mm diameter and 140 mm length. It is the same reason this cell is named 32140. As per the company, the cylindrical format of the battery provides better heat dissipation, which will be especially more useful for scooters sold in India.
It has to be noted that the LFP batteries are slightly less energy-dense than the NMC batteries. However, the energy-to-cost ratio is much better, which makes them highly competitive. The LFP batteries also provide consistent power delivery even under demanding conditions. These batteries also last for 2,000–3,000 charge cycles, which is significantly higher than NMC batteries’ 1,000–1,500 cycles.
Additionally, the thermal stability of the NMC batteries is moderate. However, the LFP batteries are thermally very stable. As per the reports, this transition to LFP batteries will help Ather with its Eight70 warranty, which offers 70 percent battery health guarantee up to 8 years or 80,000 kms. These new LFP batteries will also provide the company with more durable, cost-efficient, and better fit for Indian conditions.
Ather Energy bikes on the horizon
Apart from this, Ather Energy is currently working on the development of electric bikes, just like its main rival Ola Electric. Last year, it was revealed that Ather is working on the development of new electric motorcycles and scooters. As per the reports, the company is developing two platforms, namely EL and Zenith.
The former will be used as a base for the brand's electric scooters. On the other hand, the Zenith platform will underpin Ather’s first-ever and more electric motorcycles, which will be launched in the future. The company will also be launching a new range of electric scooters, which will boast more range and a new design. At the moment, the exact launch timelines of these models have not been revealed.
Commenting on the announcement, Zhiguang Hu, Chief Executive Officer of CBAK Energy, stated:
We are excited to announce this strategic partnership with Ather Energy, which signals our successful entry into the rapidly growing LEV market in India. We are confident that our Model 32140 battery cells, perfectly suited for India’s electric two-wheeler market, will help drive future growth. As India’s LEV sector continues to expand, we expect to secure increasing orders and market share, positioning CBAK Energy as a key player in the region’s EV revolution.