Cheaper Ather E-Scooters Unveil In August: What To Expect From Ather EL Platform

Quick News Highlights:

• Ather’s new EL platform aims for lower costs with more cost-effective manufacturing

• Battery-as-a-subscription model could debut with future scooters

• Next-gen fast chargers and updated software also to be launched

Ather Energy has announced that its third annual Community Day event will take place on August 30, 2025. The Bengaluru-based electric scooter maker will unveil its next-generation, more affordable platform called ‘EL’, along with concept vehicles and technology upgrades.

A More Cost Effective Platform

The upcoming scooter based on the new ‘EL’ platform is expected to play a big role in making Ather’s future scooters more affordable. The Rizta is already just under Rs 1 lakh, and there’s only so much a brand can do to keep its product’s price competitive. By working on a brand new platform from the ground-up, Ather will be able to fine-tune the chassis effectively to keep the manufacturing costs down. Imagine cooking a meal. If the taste is off, you won’t be able to do much to sort it as opposed to preparing things again from scratch. 

Apart from the frame, the company could also redesign core components of the new Ather electric scooter to depend less on imported parts, especially when it comes to the motor. Currently electric motors used in most EVs have magnets sourced from China, so Ather could use alternative materials that are not dependent on China. This is particularly crucial as the country has placed restrictions on its exports, affecting the Indian supply chain. Hence, being Atmanirbhar is all the more important for an Indian brand like Ather Energy.

Battery-as-a-Subscription

The easiest way to ensure lower price is to market the e-scooter in a way that the customer only pays for the chassis up front, whereas the cost for the battery can be charged on a monthly basis, under a Battery-as-a-Subscription (BaaS) scheme. We expect the new Ather EL platform to have such a system, considering battery packs are often regarded as the most expensive part of the scooter. That said, conventional pricing (including the cost of the battery pack) should also be available as an option.

Faster Charging, Smarter Software

In addition to the EL platform, Ather will launch its next-generation fast chargers at the event. These chargers promise to make EV charging quicker and more convenient for users. Currently, the Ather 450X 2.9kWh is the fastest charging electric scooter from the brand - and it takes 3hrs to charge from 0-80% with the fast charger.

The company will also roll out AtherStack 7.0, an update to its software that powers its electric scooters, bringing new features and improvements.

Expansion Plans

Alongside the technology showcase, Ather is also expanding its dealership reach. The company plans to double its retail network from the current 351 to 700 Experience Centres across India by March 2026 - to meet growing demand.

BikeDekho Says

The move towards a more affordable platform comes at a crucial time for Ather. The electric two-wheeler market in India is getting highly competitive, with more players offering budget-friendly EVs. Case in point is the launch of the Vida VX2 range that’s expected to be even more affordable than the V2 series. While Ather’s Rizta currently starts at Rs 99,999 (ex-showroom), the first of the new EL platform-based scooters could be priced closer to Rs 80,000 - making them far more accessible to a wider range of buyers.