Ather 450 S

ATHER 450 S OVERVIEW & PRICE

Performance

The Ather 450 S is not just another electric scooter. It’s a powerhouse on two wheels, boasting impressive performance metrics that position it as a capable contender in the electric scooter segment. With a 5.4 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) under its sleek body, it delivers robust power output for urban riding conditions. And with a maximum speed of 90 km/h, it’s not just a scooter; it’s a thrill ride through the city streets.

The Ather 450 S is noted for its fast acceleration and seamless power delivery. This means it can swiftly navigate city traffic, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters. Including multiple riding modes allows users to tailor the scooter’s performance to their preferences and riding conditions, optimising power or efficiency as needed.

Range and Battery

Regarding range and battery, the Ather 450 S has got you covered. Designed to meet the needs of daily urban commuters, it’s powered by a 2.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This provides a good balance between range and weight, ensuring you can easily handle your daily commute.

1. Range:

   IDC (Indian Driving Cycle) claimed range: 122 km per charge

   Real-world range: Approximately 105 km in Smart Eco mode

2. Charging Time:

   0 to 80% charge: Approximately 5.30 hours

   Full charge: About 7.45 hours

   Fast charging: 0 to 80% in approximately 3 hours using the Ather Duo fast charger

These specifications ensure that the Ather 450 S can comfortably handle most urban commuting needs while offering reasonable charging times for everyday use.

Features and Technologies

The Ather 450 S comes packed with a range of innovative features and technologies that set it apart in the electric scooter market:

1. Multi-Mode Traction Control: Offers three modes—Rain, Road, and Rally—enhancing safety and performance across various riding conditions.
2. MagicTwist Throttle System: This innovative feature allows riders to accelerate and decelerate by twisting the throttle, providing a seamless and intuitive riding experience. It also engages regenerative braking when decelerating, helping to recharge the battery.
3. AtherStack 6 Software: The latest software update includes cutting-edge features such as Google Maps integration, Alexa voice commands, and WhatsApp notifications on the dashboard, enhancing connectivity and convenience.
4. Multi-Compound Tyres: Developed in collaboration with MRF, these specialised tyres improve grip and efficiency, contributing to the scooter’s enhanced range and performance.
5. 7-inch LCD Display: The scooter features a large, easy-to-read display that provides essential information and supports connectivity features.
6. Bluetooth Connectivity: Integration with the Ather app allows for seamless smartphone connectivity and access to various innovative features.
7. Safety Features: The Ather 450 S has dual-disc brakes and a traction control system to enhance rider safety.

Handling

The Ather 450 S shares its chassis with the more expensive 450X, known for its sure-footed and confidence-inspiring handling. This ensures that the 450 S remains stable and agile, especially when navigating through urban traffic or taking corners. The scooter has a mono-shock rear suspension, typically found in performance sports bikes, offering better stability at higher speeds than the conventional dual-shock setup in many scooters.

The Ather 450 S comes with MRF Zapper N e-tread tyres, designed to provide better grip and enhance the overall handling of the scooter. These tyres contribute to the scooter’s ability to handle different road conditions effectively.

Although the 450 S does not feature the multi-mode traction control available on the 450X and 450 Apex, it still benefits from a well-tuned throttle map that offers a linear and gentle response. This is particularly useful for new EV riders adapting to the scooter’s power delivery.

Comfort

The scooter features sporty yet comfortable riding ergonomics. The seating position is crafted to ensure rider comfort during longer commutes. However, taller riders might find it slightly cramped, especially during U-turns. The ride quality of the 450 S is described as having an underlying firmness typical of Ather scooters. This firmness is balanced to provide a comfortable ride without compromising the scooter’s handling capabilities.

The 450 S features a new 7-inch LCD dash, which, while not as advanced as the TFT unit on the 450X, still offers essential connectivity features through Bluetooth and eSIM. The dashboard is designed to be user-friendly, with a five-way joystick for controlling functions, enhancing the overall user experience.

The scooter includes features like coasting regen, vehicle fall safe, and tow and theft alerts, which add to the convenience and safety of the ride. These features ensure that the scooter is comfortable and secure for everyday use.

Build Quality

Ather Energy has strongly emphasised the build quality and design of the 450 S. The scooter utilises high-quality materials, including high-grade plastic for body panels, balancing weight and strength. Produced at Ather’s state-of-the-art Hosur, Tamil Nadu facility, the 450 S undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure high production standards. The overall build quality is designed to withstand urban conditions, focusing on longevity and rider comfort.

Styling and Design

The Ather 450 S continues to embody a sleek, modern design inspired by motorsports. It features a clean, futuristic, functional, and aesthetically pleasing look. The scooter has a 17.7 cm (7″) TFT touchscreen dashboard, which enhances the user interface with intuitive controls for navigation, music, and call management. The design is about aesthetics and providing a seamless and smart riding experience, integrating features like Google Maps for navigation and WhatsApp notifications directly on the dashboard.

COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS

The Ather 450 S is available in various vibrant colour options, allowing customers to choose according to their style preferences. The available colours include:

1. Stealth Blue
2. Cosmic Black
3. Still White
4. Space Grey

The Ather 450 S is part of the broader Ather 450 series, which includes other models such as the Ather 450 X and the Ather 450 Apex. The 450 S has a 2.9 kWh battery, offering a claimed range of 105 km

Value for Money

At ₹₹ 3,30,000in New Delhi, it’s competitively priced against rivals like the Ola S1 Air and TVS iQube ST. Its 5.4 kW motor, 90 km/h top speed, and 115 km range (IDC) are competitive within its price range. While it lacks advanced features like a touchscreen display, it offers a good balance of essential features for its price point.

Compared to competitors like the Ola S1 Air, Hero Vida V1, and TVS iQube ST, the Ather 450 S holds its ground in terms of performance and essential features, making it a strong contender in India’s budget electric scooter segment.