As the electric two-wheeler market in India continues to expand, two prominent players, Ather Energy and Ola Electric, offer compelling options for urban commuters. Let's compare the Ather 450S and the Ola S1 Air to see how these electric scooters stack up against each other.
Price and Variants
Ather 450S: Available in two variants: the Standard, priced at Rs. 1,19,826, and the Pro Pack at Rs. 1,20,478 (ex-showroom).
Ola S1 Air: Comes in at a more affordable price point of Rs. 1,01,499 (ex-showroom, including EMPS 2024).
Performance and Range
Ather 450S: Equipped with a 2.9kWh battery and a 5.4kW motor, providing a maximum range of 90km and a top speed of 90kmph.
Ola S1 Air: Features a 3kWh battery pack and a hub-mounted motor producing 6kW of peak power. It claims a top speed of 90kmph and a range of 151km (IDC).
Charging
Ather 450S: Takes eight hours and 36 minutes to charge fully.
Ola S1 Air: Requires 5 hours for a full charge from a home socket.
Features
Both scooters come with LED lighting and digital displays. The Ather 450S features a seven-inch Deep View display, while the Ola S1 Air boasts a 7-inch touchscreen TFT cluster.
Ather 450S: With the Pro Pack, it offers features like multiple ride modes, auto-hold, navigation, and ride stats.
Ola S1 Air: Includes features like GPS navigation, reverse mode, hill hold assist, and music controls. Recent OTA updates have added faux motor sounds, vacation mode, and proximity unlock.
Storage and Practicality
Ather 450S: Comes with a storage capacity of 22-litres.
Ola S1 Air: Stands out with its flat footboard and spacious 34-litre underseat storage.
Suspension and Brakes
Ather 450S: Is equipped with telescopic front forks, a monoshock, and disc brakes (200mm front, 190mm rear) on both ends.
Ola S1 Air: Features a telescopic fork, twin rear shock absorbers, and drum brakes on both ends with CBS.
Design and Colors
Both scooters feature modern, sporty designs. The Ather 450S maintains the brand's signature look with cuts and creases, while the Ola S1 Air boasts a sleek appearance.
Ather 450S: Available in four colors: Space Grey, Still White, Salt Green, and Cosmic Black.
Ola S1 Air: Offers more color options with six choices: Porcelain White, Stellar Blue, Neon, Liquid Silver, Coral Glam, and Midnight Blue.
Conclusion
The Ather 450S positions itself as a slightly more premium option with its higher price point and sporty design. It offers solid performance and a range of features, especially with the Pro Pack.
The Ola S1 Air, on the other hand, provides excellent value with its lower price point. It offers a longer claimed range, comparable performance, and a host of features that have been expanded through OTA updates.
Both scooters represent strong offerings in the electric scooter market, catering to different price points and preferences. The choice between the two would depend on individual priorities regarding price, range, features, and brand preference.