एथर 450 एपेक्स

The 450 Apex is the most performance-focused and a special version of Ather’s popular EV scooter lineup. This model features certain software and small hardware upgrades to make it faster, even though the total hardware package is almost the same as the Ather’s 450X model.

When it comes to appearance, the Apex differs from the 450X in a few distinctive ways. First, its neon-orange hybrid aluminum frame, which is visible through the transparent side panels. As a result, the Apex ought to be more noticeable on the road. Additionally, the wheels are covered with orange the same neon colour as its frame, while the remaining body panels are dipped in a unique Edium blue color with a satin finish. If you are wondering about the colour options available for this scooter, it's only one available currently.

When you look at Apex from the very front, you can see its V-shaped headlight design along with sharp V-shaped creases in the apron. Additionally, the sharp-pointed front fender adds another factor of peak-like sharp design to its overall bodywork. Overall, this design makes it look quite aggressive kind of appearance which complements its performance.

The battery capacity hasn't changed from 3.7kW, but the motor's maximum output has increased from 6.4kW to 7.0kW. Consequently, the Apex can reach a maximum speed of 100 kmph in Warp Plus mode, which takes the place of the 450X's usual Warp mode. The Ather Drive Controller (ADC), which serves as the primary link between the throttle and drivetrain, has undergone software and algorithm changes to accomplish this upgrade.

This ADC modification has resulted in other performance improvements such as a 30% increase in 40–80 kmph acceleration, a 2.9-second 0–40 kmph acceleration time (0.3 seconds faster than the 450X), and constant acceleration up to 80 kmph. 

When it comes to the charging time, the Apex’s battery takes up to 5 hours and 45 minutes to charge fully from 0 to 100%. We think that there could be improvements in the charging time of Apex as other fast-charging electric scooters in India such as Okinawa PraisePro and Kinetic Green E Luna. 

Ather 450 Apex is loaded with modern features for convenience and safety. Let’s start with its instrument cluster - It is equipped with features such as a 7-inch fully-touch TFT display which indicates different vehicular sensory information such as speedometer, odometer, side stand warning sensor, trip meter, battery indicator, hazard indicator, and so on. When you connect your smartphone to the scooter, you can seamlessly navigate your destination through Google Maps with music and calls/SMS alerts. Additionally, some special features also include such as Hill Assist, Geofencing, Theft Alerts, Document Storage, Find my Scooter, OTA updates, parking assist and reverse mode.

Additionally, Apex offers two riding modes Wrap Plus and Smart Eco Mode. According to Ather, the range in Warp Plus mode is 75 km, which is the same as in regular Warp mode in 450 X. Whereas, in Smart Eco mode, the maximum range that can be achieved is 110 kilometers. Additionally, charging takes the same amount of time - 5:45 hours at home and nearly 1.5 kilometers per minute at the Ather Grid. 

Moreover, there is also a unique feature in this model - The Magic Twist, which is a more advanced version of the 450X's regenerative braking. According to the company, they have resolved most of the problems related to regenerative braking, and the new version functions better but steadily and gradually. Ather also claims that Magic Twist can handle nearly 75% of braking in urban areas. 

When it comes to the boot space, there is a 22-liter under-seat storage area for storing items in Apex, which is large enough to fit a decent bagpack. A half-face helmet should fit in just fine, but a full-face helmet cannot be kept inside of it. Overall, this scooter equips all the necessary and modern features that are essential not for only rider convenience but also the rider and scooter safety. 

When you ride this scooter on a traffic-less road, it becomes difficult to judge the added push that the Wrap Plus mode claims to offer. Nonetheless, when you exit winding curves at speeds of 30-40 kmph, the motor pull feels pretty strong and swift. Further, when you try to slow down this scooter on a straight road at 60 kmph, then you will feel like the scooter is shooting ahead with notable gravity.

Moreover, when you are in a stop-and-go condition on a straight road without traffic, it feels difficult to ride that way. Additionally, the 450 Apex sprints ahead sharply at speeds of less than 70 kmph, but beyond 70 kmph, it takes a while to achieve the top speed of 100 kmph. Ultimately, this doesn’t mean the scooter is slow. 

Coming down to the braking ability in Apex, the front brake feels strong which has a short but sharp bite, whereas, the rear braking mechanism feels quite progressive. The shock absorbers, on the other hand, are slightly firmer which keeps the scooter stable and rigid even in aggressive cornering. 

The other aspects of this scooter are the same as the Ather 450 X. Overall, this scooter provides a playful riding experience as it is one of the best scooters when it comes to riding and handling, thanks to its overall curb weight of just 112 kg.