Are you tired of constantly worrying about your electric scooter running out of juice during your daily commute? Ather Energy just dropped some exciting news that might solve your range anxiety for good. The popular Indian electric vehicle manufacturer has launched a beefed-up version of their trusted 450S model, and it’s packing some serious battery power.
What Makes This New Variant Special?
The biggest headline here is the upgraded battery capacity. While the previous version came with a 2.9 kWh battery pack, this new variant bumps things up to 3.7 kWh. That might not sound like much on paper, but the real-world impact is pretty impressive.
You’re looking at 161 kilometers of range on a single charge according to official IDC testing. Compare that to the older model’s 115 km range, and you’ve got a 40% improvement that could be a game-changer for many riders.
Who Should Consider This Scooter?
This isn’t just about numbers – it’s about freedom. If you’re someone who makes long commutes, frequently travels between cities, or simply wants the peace of mind that comes with extended range, this variant deserves your attention.
The sweet spot here is for riders who want that extra distance without paying premium prices for features they might not use. Ather has positioned this as their “Goldilocks” option – not too basic, not too fancy, but just right for most people’s needs.
Performance That Doesn’t Disappoint
Motor and Speed Capabilities
Don’t worry – increasing the battery size didn’t mean compromising on performance. The scooter still features the same reliable 5.4 kW mid-mounted motor that delivers 22 Nm of torque.
In practical terms, you’ll hit 40 kmph from a standstill in just 3.9 seconds. That’s quick enough to merge confidently into traffic and keep up with city flow. The top speed remains at 90 kmph, which is plenty for urban riding and even some highway stretches.
Riding Modes for Every Situation
The four riding modes give you flexibility based on your needs:
- SmartEco: Perfect for maximizing range during long trips
- Eco: Balance between efficiency and performance for daily commuting
- Ride: Standard mode for regular city riding
- Sport: When you need that extra kick for overtaking or hill climbs
What About the Money Talk?
Pricing Across Major Cities
Let’s be honest – price matters. The Ather 450S 3.7 kWh variant starts at ₹1,45,999 in Bengaluru (ex-showroom). Here’s how it breaks down in other major cities:
- Delhi: ₹1,48,047
- Mumbai: ₹1,48,258
- Chennai: ₹1,47,312
The slight price variations across cities are typical due to different state incentives and local taxes. While it’s not the cheapest electric scooter around, you’re paying for proven reliability, extensive service network, and now significantly improved range.
Tech Features That Actually Matter
Smart Display and Connectivity
The 7-inch DeepView display isn’t just for show. It automatically adjusts brightness based on ambient light, connects to your phone via Bluetooth, and provides turn-by-turn navigation. No more squinting at your phone screen while riding.
Safety and Convenience Features
The AtherStack Pro software brings several practical features:
- AutoHold: Keeps the scooter stationary on slopes without using the brake
- FallSafe: Automatically cuts power if the scooter detects a fall
- Find My Scooter: Locate your parked scooter using the app
- Theft Alert: Notifications if someone’s tampering with your ride
- Emergency Stop Signal: Flashing lights during hard braking to alert other vehicles
Charging: The Real-World Experience
Home Charging Made Simple
Using the provided home charger, you’ll get 80% charge in about 4.5 hours. That means plugging in after dinner gives you plenty of juice for the next day’s commute. For most people, overnight charging will keep the scooter ready for daily use.
Fast Charging Network
Here’s where Ather really shines – their fast charging network now spans over 3,300 locations across India. This extensive coverage means you can plan longer trips without constantly worrying about finding a charging point.
The fast chargers can significantly reduce charging time, making it practical to top up during lunch breaks or shopping trips.
Design Philosophy: If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It
Ather wisely decided not to mess with the 450S’s visual appeal. The sharp LED headlight, clean side profile, and modern finish remain unchanged. Sometimes the best design decision is knowing when not to change anything.
The scooter maintains its premium look that helped establish Ather as a serious player in the electric vehicle space. It’s modern without being flashy, practical without being boring.
Long-Term Value Proposition
Battery Warranty That Means Business
Ather backs this variant with an 8-year or 80,000-kilometer battery warranty, whichever comes first. They guarantee the battery will maintain at least 70% of its original capacity during this period.
This kind of warranty coverage shows confidence in their battery technology and provides real peace of mind for buyers concerned about long-term battery degradation.
Should You Make the Switch?
This new variant addresses the biggest complaint about electric scooters – range anxiety. If you’ve been on the fence about going electric because of distance concerns, this 161 km range might tip the scales.
The pricing positions it competitively against other premium electric scooters while offering proven reliability and excellent after-sales support. For daily commuters who occasionally need to travel longer distances, it’s a compelling package.
What’s the Catch?
No product is perfect. The main considerations are the higher upfront cost compared to petrol scooters and the need to plan charging for longer trips. However, the extensive charging network and improved range significantly reduce these concerns.
The scooter is ideal for urban and suburban use but might not be the best choice if you frequently travel to remote areas with limited charging infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
Ather Energy has created a variant that addresses real user needs without unnecessary complexity. The 161 km range opens up possibilities that simply weren’t practical with shorter-range electric scooters.
If you’re looking for an electric scooter that can handle both daily commuting and occasional longer rides while offering modern features and reliable performance, the Ather 450S 3.7 kWh variant deserves serious consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much longer does the 3.7 kWh battery take to charge compared to the smaller battery?
A: The charging time increases proportionally with battery size. While the 2.9 kWh version takes about 3.5 hours for 80% charge, the 3.7 kWh variant takes approximately 4.5 hours with the home charger. The extra hour of charging time gives you 40% more range, making it a worthwhile trade-off for most users.
Q: Can I upgrade my existing Ather 450S to the larger battery?
A: Unfortunately, battery upgrades aren’t typically available as aftermarket modifications due to technical and safety considerations. The 3.7 kWh battery requires specific hardware integration that’s designed from the factory. If you want the larger battery, you’ll need to purchase the new variant.
Q: Is the 161 km range achievable in real-world riding conditions?
A: The 161 km figure is based on IDC (Indian Driving Cycle) testing under controlled conditions. Real-world range will vary based on factors like riding style, terrain, weather, payload, and use of riding modes. Most users can expect 130-150 km in mixed riding conditions, which is still significantly better than the previous variant.
