Ather Community Day saw the brand’s promise of an innovative future with technology at its forefront.
Photography: Shrenith Bhandary
At the Ather Community Day, the company finally revealed a new platform called EL, which will form the basis of future products from Ather. Alongside this platform, Ather also showcased an array of tech updates and two exciting concepts.
The EL platform brings with it versatility and cost-efficiency, which will allow Ather to use it as a base for multiple types of scooters. The EL platform uses a flexible architecture that allows Ather vehicles to have either a long wheelbase or a shorter one. It can also accommodate different battery packs ranging from 2kWh to 5kWh. Ather also had a new concept on display called the EL01, which is a glimpse of a larger family-oriented scooter that utilises the EL platform.
Another concept unveiled at the Ather Community Day was the Redux, a futuristic concept moto-scooter that blends the looks of a scooter with the character of a motorcycle. It features a lightweight aluminium frame, a 3D-printed lattice seat, and body panels made from advanced new materials. This funky-looking scooter had some unique features like adaptive ride dynamics that adjusts the suspension and power delivery as per the rider’s input. It even comes with a launch mode for setting off the line with maximum power and traction, something similar to what supercars come with.
On the software front, Ather released the AtherStack 7.0, which the company claims brings a host of changes to make their scooters even more exciting. An interesting feature of the new software is voice interaction that allows riders to talk to their scooter to know vehicle status like tyre pressures, live location sharing, and even route suggestions. The AtherStack 7.0 also incorporates safety features like pothole alerts, crash detection, along with automated emergency notifications. This particular update will be available over the air for existing models like the Rizta Z and the 450X; however, you would need to purchase the pro pack to get the benefits. Ather’s Halo smart helmet also received upgrades with USB-C charging, a fog-resistant visor, and improved sound quality.
Ather’s existing 450 Apex also gets an update in the form of the Infinite Cruise control, specifically designed to tackle Indian road and traffic conditions. It can adapt to changes in speed and braking in the city, manage torque on hilly climbs and descents, and even help at crawling speeds on rough roads. Meanwhile, the Rizta Z will get an update, which will enable the touch functionality of the instrument console along with a new Eco mode.
Ather has also launched a new 6kW fast charger that can deliver 30km range in just 10 minutes and will also feature a tyre inflater to check and fill the tyres while you wait for the scooter to charge.
