When it comes to electric scooters in India, Ola Electric and Ather are two of the most prominent names in the market. Both companies have set high standards with their innovative models, offering a range of features that cater to the needs of modern urban commuters. If you’re trying to decide between the Ola S1 series and the Ather 450 series, this detailed comparison will help you determine which electric vehicle (EV) is the right choice for you.
Price and Variants
Ola Electric offers two main variants: the Ola S1 and Ola S1 Pro. The Ola S1 starts at around ₹99,999, while the S1 Pro is priced at approximately ₹1,29,999. In comparison, Ather’s lineup includes the Ather 450 Plus and the Ather 450X, with prices starting at ₹1,25,490 for the 450 Plus and going up to ₹1,44,500 for the 450X.
Key Takeaway: Ola Electric tends to be more affordable, especially after state subsidies, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.
Performance and Range
Performance is where these scooters truly shine. The Ola S1 Pro boasts a powerful 8.5 kW motor with a top speed of 115 km/h, accelerating from 0 to 40 km/h in just 3.0 seconds. It also offers an impressive range of up to 181 km on a single charge. On the other hand, the Ather 450X comes with a 6 kW motor, reaching a top speed of 90 km/h and accelerating from 0 to 40 km/h in 3.3 seconds, with a range of 116 km.
Key Takeaway: If you’re looking for greater range and faster acceleration, the Ola S1 Pro outperforms the Ather 450X.
Battery and Charging
The Ola S1 Pro features a 3.97 kWh battery, while the Ather 450X is equipped with a 2.9 kWh battery. Both scooters offer fast charging options. The Ola S1 Pro can charge up to 75 km in just 18 minutes, while the Ather 450X can add 15 km of range in 10 minutes.
Key Takeaway: Ola’s larger battery capacity and faster charging time give it an edge, particularly for long-distance riders.
Features and Technology
Both Ola and Ather are known for their advanced features. The Ola S1 Pro comes with a 7-inch touchscreen display, cruise control, multiple riding modes (including Eco, Normal, and Hyper), and features like hill hold, music control, and voice assistant. The Ather 450X also offers a 7-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a robust build with a focus on durability.
Key Takeaway: While both scooters are feature-rich, the Ola S1 Pro provides a broader array of high-tech features, making it a more versatile option.
Design and Build Quality
Design preferences can be subjective, but the Ather 450X is often praised for its sharp, sporty design, and solid build quality. The Ola S1 Pro, with its minimalist and sleek appearance, appeals to those who prefer a more modern aesthetic.
Key Takeaway: If design and build quality are your top priorities, Ather might have the upper hand with its robust and stylish construction.
FAQ
1. Which scooter offers a better range: Ola or Ather?
The Ola S1 Pro offers a superior range of up to 181 km on a single charge compared to Ather 450X’s 116 km.
2. Is Ola S1 Pro more affordable than Ather 450X?
Yes, the Ola S1 Pro is generally more affordable, especially after accounting for state subsidies.
3. Which scooter has better acceleration?
The Ola S1 Pro accelerates faster, going from 0 to 40 km/h in just 3.0 seconds compared to Ather 450X’s 3.3 seconds.
4. What are the standout features of the Ola S1 Pro?
Ola S1 Pro includes features like cruise control, voice assistant, and a larger touchscreen, making it highly feature-rich.
5. Which scooter is more robustly built?
The Ather 450X is known for its durable and sporty design, making it a solid choice for those prioritizing build quality.
Choosing between Ola Electric and Ather ultimately depends on your priorities—whether it’s range, price, performance, or features. Ola tends to offer more in terms of range and features, while Ather stands out with its design and build quality.