Ather Cruiser Concept with the 450 and 450X
The Indian automotive industry is still at an infant stage when it comes to electric mobility. At the moment, choices are quite narrow in the four-wheeler segment while two-wheelers (especially scooters) are lately witnessing a growing absence of tailpipes. We do not believe that “EVs are the future” but would not dismiss the fact that they will become an integral part of the industry in the coming decades.
For instance, an electric scooter makes more sense than an equivalent petrol-CVT counterpart on multiple occasions (especially in the city). Ather Energy is currently the benchmark among Indian e-scooters or electric two-wheelers in general. Electric motorcycles occupy only a minute portion of India’s rapidly advancing e-two-wheeler market and the available ones are mostly commuters. Hence, there is evident potential for new segments such as cruisers.
Sreejith Krishnan Kunjappan, a Malayali product designer based in Bangalore, has conceptualised an interesting electric cruiser for India as a productive lockdown project. He chose none other than Ather Energy as its base. The ‘next Ather product’ was created due to a noticeable lack of electric cruisers as against a wide range of ICE cruisers (Royal Enfield models being a prime example). It follows the Bangalore-based automaker’s white/green/black theme. Meanwhile, the overall inspiration comes from the organic forms on a shark’s body.
Ather Cruiser Concept
Proper attention was given to its packaging and rider triangle. Amidst modern styling elements that go in line with Ather Energy’s design language, Sreejith has not compromised on the basic function of a cruiser — offering a relaxed riding experience. The relatively silent operation of an electric powertrain is an added bonus unless of course, the consumer is someone who priorities exhaust note over mechanical or dynamic prowess.
Design/styling highlights of the Ather cruiser concept include an extended windshield that doubles as a headlight cover, concealed forks, minimal body panels without exposing internals, monoshock rear suspension (almost non-existent in cruisers), split seats and ‘phone dock’ (a compartment on the traditional tank that houses and wirelessly charges a smartphone while an external screen mirrors its display). The instrument console is similar to the fully-loaded unit seen in familiar Ather products.
Sreejith states that some of these units lack practicality as the entire motorcycle is just a visualisation. Ather Energy has already shared its plans to enter the motorcycle segment but not much has been heard ever since. Sreehari’s Ather cruiser concept is an excellent start. If at all Ather launches a cruiser motorcycle, it could be a potential rival to the TVS Zeppelin cruiser motorcycle which is expected to launch by 2022.
Source: Bike - rushlane.com
