Ather Electric Scooters Launched With BaaS – Rizta At Rs 76k, 450 At Rs 84k; Ather Energy, one of India’s leading electric two-wheeler manufacturers, has introduced a revolutionary Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model for its popular Rizta and 450 Series scooters. This strategic shift significantly reduces the upfront purchase cost, making electric vehicle (EV) ownership far more accessible to a wider audience. With the new pricing, the Ather Rizta now starts at just ₹75,999 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru), while the Ather 450 Series begins at ₹84,341.
How the Battery-as-a-Service Model Works
The BaaS model separates the battery cost from the scooter’s purchase price, allowing customers to subscribe to battery usage instead of owning it outright. Under Ather’s 48-month plan, riders pay ₹1 per kilometer with a minimum monthly commitment of 1,000 kilometers. This means customers avoid a large upfront payment for the battery and instead distribute the cost over several years. Globally, battery leasing models have proven effective in making EVs more affordable, and Ather is among the first in India to embrace this concept at scale.
Assured Buyback Program and Extended Warranty Benefits
Alongside BaaS, Ather has introduced an Assured Buyback Program to address resale concerns—a common hesitation among EV buyers. Customers are guaranteed up to 60% of the scooter’s value after 3 years and up to 50% after 4 years, provided usage criteria are met. Additionally, Ather’s Extended Comprehensive Warranty (ECW) now covers the battery, motor, controller, charger, and dashboard for up to 5 years or 60,000 kilometers, giving buyers confidence in long-term ownership.
Ather’s New Pricing and Ownership Model
| Feature | Ather Rizta (Family Scooter) | Ather 450 Series (Performance Scooter) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price (Ex-Battery) | ₹75,999 | ₹84,341 |
| Battery Payment Mode | Subscription (BaaS) | Subscription (BaaS) |
| Charging Rate for Battery | ₹1 per km (48-month plan) | ₹1 per km (48-month plan) |
| Minimum Monthly Usage | 1,000 km | 1,000 km |
| Assured Buyback Value | 60% after 3 yrs, 50% after 4 yrs | 60% after 3 yrs, 50% after 4 yrs |
| Extended Warranty | Yes (Battery & Key Components) | Yes (Battery & Key Components) |
Why This Pricing Strategy Changes the Game
Batteries account for 30–40% of an EV’s total cost, making them the biggest factor behind high purchase prices. By removing the battery cost upfront, Ather positions the Rizta and 450 Series competitively against both EV and premium petrol scooters. The Rizta’s ₹75,999 starting price puts it in line with many mid-range petrol scooters while offering the added benefits of lower running costs, quiet operation, and zero tailpipe emissions.
Affordability Meets Practicality
From a financial perspective, the BaaS model shifts expenses from a single high payment to predictable monthly payments based on actual usage. At ₹1 per km with a 1,000 km minimum, the cost is ₹1,000 per month for battery access. For regular riders, this structure is easier to budget, and when paired with the assured buyback, it addresses long-term ownership concerns.
How the Assured Buyback Boosts Consumer Confidence
One of the biggest hurdles in EV adoption is uncertainty over resale value and battery degradation. Ather’s guaranteed buyback—up to 60% after 3 years—provides a clear exit strategy for owners. This assurance could play a key role in convincing hesitant buyers to make the switch to electric mobility.
Warranty Coverage Strengthens Long-Term Value
Ather’s 5-year/60,000 km Extended Comprehensive Warranty covering the battery and essential components significantly reduces the risk of costly repairs. This level of protection reinforces Ather’s commitment to product durability and helps buyers feel secure about their investment.
Positioning in India’s Growing EV Market
India’s electric scooter market is growing rapidly, with several brands introducing innovative ownership models. Hero MotoCorp recently announced a similar BaaS model for its Vida VX2, but Ather differentiates itself by combining affordability with robust warranties and resale assurance. These features make the Rizta and 450 Series particularly attractive for urban commuters and families seeking a reliable, eco-friendly alternative to petrol scooters.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
The adoption of electric scooters has both environmental and financial advantages. EVs like the Rizta and 450 Series produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping reduce urban air pollution. As India’s electricity grid shifts toward renewable energy sources, the carbon footprint of EV usage will continue to drop. On the economic side, running costs for EVs are significantly lower than petrol models, making them an appealing choice for cost-conscious buyers.
Potential Drawbacks and Buyer Considerations
While BaaS offers clear benefits, there are factors to consider. The 1,000 km monthly minimum means low-mileage riders might pay for unused capacity. Additionally, while spreading the battery cost over time eases initial affordability, the total cost of ownership remains similar to conventional purchase models. Buyers should assess their usage patterns before committing.
Conclusion
Ather Energy’s BaaS launch marks a major step in redefining EV affordability in India. By lowering entry prices, offering predictable monthly costs, providing strong warranty protection, and guaranteeing resale value, the company addresses multiple barriers to adoption. If successful, this model could inspire other manufacturers to follow suit, ultimately accelerating the country’s shift toward sustainable mobility. The Rizta and 450 Series now stand out not only for their technology and design but also for their customer-focused ownership model, making them some of the most compelling electric scooters currently available in the Indian market.
