Ather predicts new Konarc scooter will account for over half of sales in two years

Ather Energy says its newly launched Konarc scooter will contribute more than half of its sales in the next two years. The Bengaluru firm is using Konarc to push electric two‑wheelers into the mainstream, aiming to win riders who would otherwise buy petrol scooters. Chief business officer Ravneet Phokela explained that the model’s role is to wean people away from ICE vehicles, not to take market share from other EV makers. He added that comfort, safety and battery life must first meet buyer expectations before tech features become a selling point. Konarc starts at Rs 99,999 and is offered in five variants – three S models and two Z models – with four priced near the existing Rizta range. Despite the lower price, the scooter delivers higher profit margins than the Rizta. Ather switched from an aluminium chassis on the 450/Rizta to a tubular steel frame on Konarc and replaced the two‑stage belt drive with a gearbox; the charger and motor controller are now a single unit. The new EL platform lets the company apply lessons from the 450 platform while keeping costs low, avoiding the “overkill” design used for the family‑focused Rizta. Currently Konarc is sold only in parts of North India; bookings in central and southern regions will begin after the new manufacturing plant comes online in December, with production ramp‑up taking a few months. Supply improvements will allow Ather to add more markets gradually. The firm has paused showroom expansion for now, operating about 750 outlets, but targets around 2,000 stores within 18‑24 months, ensuring dealers stay profitable.

Context

The push reflects a broader shift in India toward electric two‑wheelers as governments encourage lower‑emission transport and consumers look for cheaper running costs.