Cheaper Ather Electric Scooters Coming Soon
Ather Energy, long known for premium electric scooters like the 450X and the recently launched Rizta, is now planning to go mass-market. The Bengaluru-based company has confirmed that it is working on a brand-new line of more affordable electric scooters aimed at price-conscious buyers—marking a significant shift from its previous premium-only positioning.
From Premium to Practical
Since its debut, Ather has been associated with reliable performance, sharp styling, and high-tech features. The 450 series won over early adopters with its fast acceleration and smart connectivity, while the Rizta was positioned as a family-friendly alternative with a larger seat and focus on comfort.
But Ather’s prices—ranging from around ₹1.1 lakh for the Rizta to nearly ₹2 lakh for the top-end 450 Apex—meant the brand appealed more to the urban upper middle class than to the average Indian buyer. That’s about to change.
The ‘EL’ Platform: Making Electric Affordable
Ather has now confirmed the development of a new low-cost scooter platform, internally dubbed “EL.” This upcoming line-up will sit below the current 450 and Rizta range and will aim to deliver the essentials of Ather’s DNA—reliability, practicality, and a dose of tech—at a more accessible price point.
The scooters built on this EL platform are expected to launch in the coming years, with timelines likely to align with Ather’s broader expansion and IPO plans. While specifications and pricing haven’t been revealed yet, the move indicates a direct challenge to budget-focused players like Ola Electric, TVS, and Bajaj in the sub-₹1 lakh category.
Why It Matters
Ather’s entry into the affordable segment could shift the game in India’s crowded EV market. Here's why this matters:
• More Value for Buyers: The upcoming scooters are expected to cost less, possibly below ₹1 lakh, making Ather an option for families and commuters who previously found the brand out of budget.
• Brand Assurance: Even with the lower price, buyers can expect strong after-sales service, consistent software updates, and the kind of quality Ather has become known for.
• Wider Adoption of EVs: With one of the most trusted EV brands entering the budget space, overall confidence in electric mobility could rise significantly.
What Will the Scooters Be Like?
While details are under wraps, it’s safe to assume Ather will prioritise:
• Function over Flash: Expect a simple, comfortable design with storage, good seat height, and basic features for city use.
• Efficient Performance: They won’t be as sporty as the 450X but will likely handle daily commutes with ease—similar to what the Rizta offers.
• Tech Where It Counts: Essential smart features like navigation, mobile connectivity, and efficient battery management will probably be retained, even if some frills are cut to reduce costs.
• Realistic Range: Expect a usable range designed for city traffic—enough for most people’s daily needs without pushing up battery costs.
Ather’s Bigger Play
This push towards affordability is part of Ather’s larger ambition to become a full-spectrum EV brand. Alongside expanding its manufacturing capacity and retail footprint, Ather is also developing electric motorcycles in the 125-300cc equivalent category. The new product strategy, supported by its IPO plans, clearly signals the company’s intent to scale up rapidly.
Should You Wait?
If you’ve been holding off on buying an EV due to cost, this might be the right time to wait and watch. The upcoming affordable Ather models could offer a strong mix of price, performance, and trust—especially for families and first-time EV buyers. However, if you need a scooter immediately, Ather’s current line-up continues to offer top-notch reliability, smart features, and a solid ride experience.