Ather Energy, a prominent name in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) space, has unveiled its newest offering - the Ather Rizta. This scooter marks a strategic shift for Ather, targeting a broader audience seeking practicality and family-friendly features. Let's delve into the details of the Rizta launch and explore what it brings to the table.
Designed for Daily Commutes and Beyond
Unlike the sportier Ather 450 series, the Rizta boasts a comfortable, upright riding position and a spacious seat, ideal for carrying a pillion rider. Ample under-seat storage and a dedicated boot cater to everyday errands and grocery runs. The focus on comfort extends to a thoughtfully designed footboard and a wider handlebar, ensuring a relaxed riding experience.
Performance Packed with Practicality
The Ather Rizta comes in two variants: S and Z. Both variants pack the same mid-drive motor found in the 450 series, albeit with a lower peak output for optimized range. Riders can choose between two battery options - a 2.9 kWh and a 3.7 kWh - offering a claimed maximum range of up to 140 km on a single charge.
Ather's Smart Tech Makes the Ride Smarter
Ather is renowned for its tech-forward approach, and the Rizta is no exception. It features a 7-inch touchscreen instrument cluster displaying vital information, navigation, and connectivity options. A unique feature is the inclusion of a smart helmet (optional) that integrates with the scooter, enabling voice commands, music sharing with the pillion rider, and improved communication.
Safety First: A Focus on Rider Security
The Ather Rizta prioritizes rider safety with features like a disc brake on both wheels and a first-in-segment traction control system. This system helps maintain grip during acceleration on slippery surfaces, enhancing rider confidence.
A Competitive Price Point in the Evolving Market
The Ather Rizta enters a burgeoning electric scooter segment in India. It sits competitively in the price range of Rs 1.10 lakh to Rs 1.45 lakh (ex-showroom), taking on established players like Bajaj Chetak, TVS iQube, and Ola S1 Air. Bookings for the Rizta are open, with deliveries scheduled to begin in June 2024.
Ather Rizta Variants Compared
| Feature | Ather Rizta S | Ather Rizta Z |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 2.9 kWh | 3.7 kWh |
| Claimed Range (Single Charge) | 123 km | 140 km |
| Charging Time (0-100%) with 350W Charger | 6 hours 40 minutes | Not Available |
| Charging Time (0-100%) with 700W Charger (Optional) | Not Available | 4 hours 15 minutes |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | Rs 1.09 Lakh | Rs 1.45 Lakh |
A Promising Contender
Ather Rizta's launch signifies India's maturing electric scooter market. It caters to a growing segment of riders seeking a practical, comfortable, and feature-rich electric scooter for daily commutes and family use. With its focus on comfort, performance, and safety, the Rizta has the potential to be a strong contender in the Indian EV landscape.