The Ather 450 is an electric scooter that has garnered significant attention in the Indian market for its advanced features, sleek design, and solid performance. In this comprehensive review, we will cover various aspects of the Ather 450, including its design, performance, battery life, technology, and overall value for money.
The Ather 450 is an electric scooter manufactured by Ather Energy in India. It was launched in Bengaluru in September 2018. It is powered by a 5.4 kW Brushless DC electric motor, and a 3.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The scooter can accelerate 0–40 km/h in 3.3 seconds.
1. Design and Build Quality
The Ather 450 has a modern and stylish design that stands out in the crowded electric scooter market. With sharp, angular lines and a well-integrated front headlamp, it looks sleek and futuristic. The body is built with high-quality materials, and the overall fit and finish feel premium. It’s lightweight, but still robust, and the scooter is available in multiple colors to suit different preferences.
2. Performance
The Ather 450 is powered by a 6 kW electric motor that delivers impressive performance. It can accelerate from 0 to 40 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, making it one of the fastest electric scooters in its class. The scooter is also capable of reaching a top speed of 80 km/h, which is more than adequate for city commuting and occasional highway rides.
The Ather 450 offers three riding modes: ECO, Ride, and Sport. In ECO mode, the scooter prioritizes battery efficiency, which is ideal for long commutes. In Ride mode, the scooter balances performance and range. Sport mode unleashes the full power of the motor, providing quick acceleration and a fun riding experience.
3. Battery and Range
The Ather 450 comes with a 2.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack that provides a claimed range of up to 70-80 km on a full charge, depending on the riding mode and road conditions. In real-world conditions, the scooter’s range is typically around 60-70 km on a single charge. This is sufficient for daily commutes in urban environments.
Charging the Ather 450 is relatively quick, with the ability to charge up to 80% in about 50 minutes using Ather’s fast-charging network. If you charge it at home with a standard socket, it will take around 4-5 hours for a full charge. Ather’s public fast-charging network is a significant advantage for those who often find themselves away from home and need quick top-ups.
4. Technology and Features
One of the standout features of the Ather 450 is its technology. The scooter comes with a large 7-inch touchscreen display that serves as the center for all the scooter’s controls and information. The display shows real-time data such as speed, battery percentage, range, and navigation. It’s also integrated with Ather’s smartphone app, which allows users to track their scooter’s location, monitor battery health, and get software updates over-the-air.
The scooter also comes with 3G connectivity and features like navigation and remote diagnostics, which are rare in the electric scooter segment. The touch interface is responsive and easy to use, making it convenient for riders to interact with the scooter while on the go.
Additionally, the Ather 450 has smart features such as automatic headlamp, proximity unlock, and anti-theft alarms.
5. Ride Quality and Handling
The Ather 450 offers an excellent ride experience with its front telescopic suspension and rear mono-shock. The scooter handles bumps and rough roads with ease, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. The low center of gravity and responsive handling make it easy to maneuver through tight city streets and congested traffic.
The brakes are disc brakes at both ends, providing ample stopping power, and the scooter’s overall stability during braking is impressive.
6. Pricing and Value for Money
When it comes to pricing, the Ather 450 is positioned as a premium electric scooter, and its price reflects that. However, considering the high-quality build, advanced technology, and performance, the Ather 450 offers good value for money compared to other electric scooters in the same segment.
Additionally, Ather offers attractive financing options and subscription plans, making it more affordable for buyers in the long term.
7. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stylish and modern design
- Excellent performance with fast acceleration
- High-quality build and premium feel
- Advanced technology with a responsive touchscreen and smartphone integration
- Smooth ride and handling
- Fast-charging network
- Over-the-air software updates
- Smart features like proximity unlock and navigation
Cons:
- Premium pricing compared to other electric scooters
- Range might not be sufficient for longer trips
- Charging infrastructure is still limited in certain areas (although Ather is expanding)
Conclusion
The Ather 450 is a game-changer in the electric scooter segment, offering a blend of performance, technology, and design that few other scooters can match. It’s perfect for urban commuters who want a stylish, practical, and eco-friendly mode of transport. While its pricing is on the higher side, the Ather 450’s features and performance justify the cost. If you are looking for an electric scooter that offers a great riding experience, solid performance, and futuristic technology, the Ather 450 is a great choice.
