The newly launched Ather 450X Gen 3 is a case of ‘evolution, not revolution’ over the previous Gen 2 model. Ather has gone through the 450X with a fine-tooth comb and made changes based on customer feedback, spanning everything from a larger battery to an accessory pillion sidestep. As a result of all these changes, prices have risen by a small amount. Here’s everything you need to know about the updated electric scooter.
1. Bigger battery with more range
The 450X Gen 3 comes with a larger 3.7kWh battery pack, which is a significant step up from the earlier 2.9kWh unit (of which 2.6kWh was usable). Ather claims that in Eco mode, the Gen 3 can achieve a real-world range of 105km on a single charge, up from 85km previously. Ather also claims that this battery will have a 25 percent longer life and a marked improvement in thermal management, compared to the existing unit. All this translates to more consistent performance, whether you’re riding up steep inclines, or with a pillion on board. This larger battery pack has had an impact on weight, and overall, the scooter is now heavier by 3.6kg.
2. More power on tap
The fan-cooled motor on the 450X Gen 3 has also received a minor bump up in peak power, from 6kW to 6.2 kW, although the nominal power output stays the same, at 3.3kW. This bump up in peak power means that the claimed top speed has gone up to 90kph from the earlier 80kph figure, although performance figures aren’t expected to change drastically.
3. Improved visually and under the skin
The MRF tyres on the Ather 450X have received a notable update with changes made to the tyre compound, tread pattern as well as tyre width (now wider at the rear). Ather claims these new tyres reduce braking distances over the outgoing models while offering an improved grip. Other small but notable visual updates include redesigned mirrors for better visibility and an accessory sidestep for the pillion. While the new tyres and mirrors can be retrofitted to previous versions, the sidestep is still a work-in-progress in that department.
4. Display responds quicker to inputs
The 7.0-inch TFT display now responds quicker to inputs, thanks to a doubling in RAM size, from 1GB to 2GB. This will allow the introduction of several new features in the future, such as voice commands and multi-language support, claims Ather.
5. Prices increased by an average of Rs 5,000
Priced at Rs 1.39 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi, after all subsidies), the Ather 450X Gen 3 is Rs. 1,000 dearer in Delhi than the outgoing model. However, owing to different state subsidies, the price differential for the Gen 3 ranges anywhere from Rs 1,000 to nearly Rs 7,000. On average, prices have gone up by Rs 5,000 across the nation.
Do you think the price hike is justified with the changes on offer? Let us know in the comments section below.
Azaman Chothia
Vishal Venugopal
Ved Janve
