G20 sherpa and former NITI Aayog CEO, Amitabh Kant, has thrown down the gauntlet for Indian electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers, urging them to pivot towards the global market with their electric two-wheelers. During an address at Ather Energy’s community day, Kant pointed to India’s rapid ascension in EV adoption as a beacon for potential international dominance, especially given its status as the premier two-wheeler exporter globally.
“Now is the time for Indian EV companies like Ather to not only make 2 two-wheelers for the domestic consumers but also for the world,” Kant proclaimed. This directive comes against a backdrop of soaring EV sales within India—nearly doubling in 2023 with predictions of a 66% increase this year, fueled by consumer enthusiasm, supportive policy frameworks, and evolving infrastructure, insights from Counterpoint Research reveal.
Ather Energy’s unveiling of the ‘Rizta’ scooter during the event encapsulates this visionary stride. With a base price of Rs 1,09,999, the Rizta integrates advanced features like ‘SkidControl’ and dashboard WhatsApp connectivity, aiming to redefine family mobility.
Tarun Mehta, Ather Energy’s Co-Founder and CEO, reflected on the evolution from the performance-driven 450 series to the family-centric Rizta, designed with Indian households in mind. “We entered the two-wheeler market with our performance scooter, the 450 series, which was recognised in the industry. Now, we are setting foot in the family segment with the Rizta, which has been designed and engineered with the Indian family in mind,” Mehta articulated.
The Rizta inherits the acclaimed safety features of the 450 series and boasts three variants, all offering a top speed of 80 kmph and two ride modes: Zip and SmartEco, allowing for a customizable riding experience.
Kant’s clarion call for Indian EV firms to aim for global market penetration, coupled with Ather Energy’s launch of the Rizta, signifies a crucial juncture in India’s ambition to emerge as a powerhouse in the global electric vehicle arena. With industry innovation and governmental support converging, India is poised to lead the international EV revolution, charting a course for worldwide electric mobility leadership.
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