Ather energy is one of the first companies to venture into the electric two-wheeler market in India; a company that has established itself as one with the combination of high-budget technology and practicality. The Bengaluru-based company now makes a bold entry into the pure performance with the introduction of Ather 450 Apex. The Apex is not the same as upgrading; it is a demonstration of engineering dexterity, designed to go beyond what an electric scooter can deliver on Indian roads.
This is an ultra-exclusive version that marks the result of the many years of research, development and real-life testing Ather did on thousands of riders on the 450X. As an expression of intent on the part of Ather, the 450 Apex is aimed at fans of a thrilling ride but with the features needed to deliver everyday utility.
Design and Aerodynamics
The Ather 450 Apex is at the outset undoubtedly high-end. Scooter is still the clean and futuristic line that Ather is famous by and provides visual drama in transpirable body panels and inimitable Indium Blue finish. These clear panels can give us a glimpse of the frame and other parts and components that are below the scooter, which makes it look more mechanical and almost a concept-like scooter.
Aesthetically Ather has tweaked its aerodynamics making it less draggy and more stable at higher speeds. The proportions stand the same as the Ather 450 Apex and the agile handling properties are retained which make the urban riding fun and easy. The ergonomic balance is such that people find it comfortable even during a stop and go in the city traffic.
Motor and Acceleration
The Ather 450 Apex is an engine with an uprated powertrain. The motor of the scooter now produces a peak power of 7.0 kW, as compared to 6.4 kW of the 450X. The Apex is one of the fastest scooters in its segment with better torque supply, requiring only 2.9 seconds to go through the 0 to 40 km/h range.
Ather has also come up with a new optimized controller and regenerative braking system, and its Warp+ feature. Acceleration in this mode is intuitive and barely noticeable, providing a combination of smoothness and harsh acceleration that no one accustomed to conventional scooters has experienced. Throttle response is uniform and predictable even at higher speeds increasing rider confidence.
The Ather 450 Apex does not merely accelerate quickly but does it with a composure that astonishes. Its mid-range acceleration has been especially remarkable to test riders, which is perfect when overtaking others on the highway, or pulling off in high-speed passes on expressways.
Battery, Range, and Efficiency.
The Ather 450 Apex runs on a lithium-ion battery pack of 3.7 kWh which is easy to trust as supplied by Ather. The scooter can achieve a realistic range of 110 to 120 kilometers on a single charge, depending on the conditions of the ride and the mode used, due to the increase in efficiency of motor control and a regenerative technology.
Although it is performance based, Ather has made sure that range anxiety is kept at a low level. The Apex is compatible with Ather Grid which enables it to support fast charging, which adds approximately 15 km of range within 10 minutes. This renders it appropriate in both the day to day and long routes when traveling through the city.
There is also the regenerative braking system of Ather, which is further developed in the Apex, allowing to recover a greater amount of energy during deceleration, which gives the extension of the ride range the slightest touch, as well as a natural braking feel.
Ride Dynamics and Handling
The real difference that the Ather 450 Apex has compared to the rest is the road feel. Its aluminum frame paired with the fine tuning of its suspension gives the scooter unequalled stability and control in cornering. The weight distribution has been adjusted to a slightly sportier position with a good grip even when taking corners.
The alloy 12 inch wheels and broad tires provide good traction and the hydraulic disc brakes offer good breaking power. The Apex had a low body roll, and a light steering feedback on test rides, which indicates the degree of engineering attention paid by Ather.
Sophisticated Functions and Interconnectedness.
The Apex is also loaded with intelligent technology, like all other Athers. The 7 inch touchscreen dash provides turn by turn navigation, ride statistics, Bluetooth capabilities and over the air updates. The interface is more responsive with AtherStack 6 software.
New performance indicators show real-time acceleration data and each ride has become an opportunity to discover and evaluate your skills. The Ather App also allows riders to track performance statistics and remotely book maintenance.
Conclusions: Where Art Meets Engineering.
The Ather 450 Apex is not a faster 450X. It is a tribute of electric engineering – a love poem to people who see that scooters can be both exciting and sustainable. Its blend of gorgeous design, performance, quick acceleration, and sophisticated software show that the Apex is that electric mobility that has been obtained to a new level of maturity in India.
