In the past year, we’ve put the Ather 450X, Ola S1 Pro Gen 1, and Ola S1 Pro Gen 2 through their paces, covering nearly 10,000 kilometers. With electric scooters gaining popularity, many are left wondering which brand to consider. If we look at the two-wheeler electric sales data for 2023-2024, Ola consistently tops the charts as the best-selling two-wheeler EV in India, while Ather holds the distinction of being one of the oldest and most reliable players in the market. So, should you opt for the feature-rich and popular Ola, or the tried-and-tested Ather? Here’s our long-term user review to help you decide.
1. Range & Battery Life
One of the most critical factors when choosing an electric scooter is the range and battery life. According to Ola, their scooters offer a range of 143 km in normal mode. However, this figure is based on IDC (Indian Driving Cycle) testing in controlled lab environments. In real-world conditions, the range displayed on Ola’s dashboard can be misleading, often overstating the actual range by 10-20 km. In our city driving tests, we consistently achieved a range of 105-110 km.
On the other hand, Ather’s range display is impressively accurate. For example, during a recent ride with only 1-2% battery remaining, the Ather 450X still managed to cover a kilometer, aligning perfectly with its dashboard reading. In smart eco mode, Ather delivers around 110 km, while in ride mode, it offers 85-90 km, as claimed.
When it comes to battery warranty, both brands offer protection: Ola provides an 8-year or 80,000 km warranty (available from February 2024 onwards), while Ather offers a 5-year or 50,000 km warranty. To maximize battery life, avoid using your EV when the battery is low, fully charge it before long periods of inactivity, and limit the use of fast charging to emergencies.
2. Performance
Performance is subjective and depends on individual preferences. The Ather 450X has a sporty vibe, offering a quick response and a top speed of 90 km/h, which is adequate for city commuting. Ola, with a top speed of 120 km/h, provides a more relaxed and comfortable ride, especially on longer trips, thanks to its wider seats.
The Ather 450X emits a distinctive sound that some riders appreciate, while others prefer the silent operation of the Ola scooters. Both brands offer multiple speed modes, but it’s worth noting that Ola’s brakes can be overly sensitive, particularly in wet conditions, so caution is advised.
3. Charging Network
A robust charging network is crucial for EV owners. In our experience, Ola’s charging infrastructure in Noida is lacking, with only one station that has since been closed. Ather, however, has made significant strides, expanding its charging network from five to 13 stations in our area. Ather has also partnered with Hero and various petrol pumps, making charging more accessible, albeit at a cost of ₹1 per minute in Delhi.
4. Software & Features
Software plays a significant role in the EV experience, and both scooters come with a host of features. While Ola offers advanced options like proximity unlock and in-built speakers, it is plagued by frequent bugs. In contrast, Ather’s software is more reliable, with fewer issues, making it the better choice for day-to-day use.
5. Service Center Experience
Both Ather and Ola operate company-owned service centers, but the experience varies. Our experience with Ola’s service was disappointing, with long wait times and unresolved issues. Ather’s service was more reliable, although availability of spare parts could be improved.