Key Highlights:
- Ather is developing two new EV platforms: EL for scooters and Zenith for motorcycles.
- The Zenith platform will focus on the 125-300cc electric motorcycle category.
- The EL platform will offer cost-effective and adaptable scooter models.
- Ather’s new factory in Aurangabad will begin production in May 2026.
Ather Energy is working on two new electric vehicle (EV) platforms. One is the “EL” platform for cost-effective scooters. The other is the “Zenith” platform, aimed at electric motorcycles in the 125-300cc category.
Current Ather Models and Future Plans
Ather currently offers the 450 and Rizta electric scooters. Both are built on the same platform, with seven versions. As India shifts from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric ones, electric two-wheelers are driving the change. However, the electric motorcycle segment is still in its early stages, with only a few brands like Tork, Revolt, and Ultraviolette.
Zenith Platform to Target the Electric Motorcycle Market
The Zenith platform is Ather’s answer to the growing 125-300cc motorcycle category. Ather believes in the potential of electric motorcycles. Currently, bikes make up around 63% of the Indian two-wheeler market. Ather expects EV penetration in the motorcycle segment to reach 10% by the end of the decade.
Ola Electric’s Plans in Comparison
Meanwhile, Ola Electric is also working on four new electric bike models. They aim to launch their first electric motorcycle in FY26. Ola also plans to enter the mass-market motorcycle category in the future.
The EL Platform: A Cost-Effective Solution for Scooters
The new EL platform for scooters is almost ready. It will feature new electronics, a powertrain, and a chassis while borrowing elements from Ather’s current 450 platform. According to Ather, the EL platform will help develop a range of scooter models for both domestic and international markets, while also reducing production costs.
Production and Expansion Plans
Ather plans to manufacture vehicles on these platforms at its new factory in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Production is set to begin in May 2026 in phases. Ather currently operates two production facilities in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, with a combined capacity of 4.2 lakh units annually.
Also Read: India’s Tata Motors and MG launches schemes to Boost EV Sales
ELCTRIK Speaks
Ather Energy’s development of the EL and Zenith platforms marks a significant step in the company’s expansion. With these new platforms, Ather aims to cater to the growing electric two-wheeler market in both scooters and motorcycles. As production ramps up by 2026, Ather is positioning itself to meet the increasing demand for EVs in India and internationally.
