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      Ather Rizta Electric Scooter Leaks Ahead Of Launch – End Of Activa?

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      Ather Rizta Electric Scooter LeaksAs opposed to 450 lineup, we will witness slightly less sophistication and performance with the upcoming Ather Rizta EVAfter launching products catering to youth with sleek and futuristic electric scooters, Ather Energy is taking a different approach for the first time. With Ather Rizta, the company will step into uncharted waters rivaling mainstream scooter brands. Ahead of launch, Ather Rizta electric scooter has now leaked online.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter First Photos LeakIf we take a look at Ather’s approach to mobility solutions in India, they have stuck to building an ecosystem and a community of tech-savvy and young buyers with a thirst for thrill. The company is now foraying into family scooter genre where Honda, TVS, Suzuki and Yamaha have been very active.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter LeaksWhere electric family scooters are concerned, juggernauts like Honda fade away from the equation. But upcoming Ather Rizta will rival TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak and Ola S1 X+. It will even rival ICE scooters like Activa and Jupiter. With Ather Rizta, we can see the brand stressing practicality after selling the sporty and sophisticated 450 lineup of scooters.Ather has time and time again, reflected Rizta’s seat size, which should be one of its biggest strengths. Leaked images confirm similar ethos and pack a big seat. Like “big” big. This should allow Ather to pack a bigger underseat storage. We’re talking about two full size helmets and then more.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter LeaksDesign-wise, we can see an overall similar approach to TVS iQube. Especially considering both are arch rivals in the same segment, this is very interesting. Design attributes inspired by iQube are sleek horizontal LED headlights, front apron, sleek LED tail lights, large grab rails side panels among others.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter LeaksIn the leaked photos, we can see sleek body panels that lend a futuristic appeal. I particularly like how the single-piece body extends from its apron to its side body panels. We can also see a flat floorboard which should amplify practicality. Other notable elements include front and rear disc brakes, belt drive for smooth power delivery and large ORVMs.What to expect?In typical Ather fashion, we should expect a no-nonsense approach in battery department. The company has demonstrated Ather Rizta’s battery strength by a drop test and battery’s IP67 with a water wading test. Where battery capacity is concerned, we could expect around a 3 kWh unit promising a claimed range of about 160 km.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter LeaksAther Rizta will likely pack the same 7-inch colour TFT touchscreen dashboard as 450X and 450 Apex, as hinted in the water-wading test video. The company will unveil Rizta at Ather Community Day on 6th April 2024. The same event will also witness the launch of AtherStack 6 OTA update along with a secret smart accessory.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter Leaks1st April 2024The photos you see in this post are not actual leaked images, but digital renders created by Pratyush Rout. They are based on the leaked spy shots. Thank you for joining us on this April Fool’s Day blog adventure. Until we meet again next year, remember to prioritize safety on your travels. More

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      2024 Bajaj Pulsar N125 First Ever Spy Shots – Launch Soon

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      2024 Bajaj Pulsar N125 Spy ShotsBajaj is upgrading its bestselling Pulsar range and one of the new entrants will be Pulsar N125In the 125cc motorcycle segment, Bajaj currently offers the Pulsar 125 and Pulsar NS125. The upcoming Pulsar N125 will sit between the two. It will help Bajaj strengthen its presence in the 125cc segment that continues to register strong growth. Pulsar 125 range is currently ranked second in the list of best selling 125cc bikes, trailing Honda CB Shine.Pulsar N125 – Features, performanceBajaj Pulsar N125 test mule was spotted with telescopic front forks and a monoshock suspension at rear. The bike can be seen with disk and drum combo at front and rear, respectively. The chassis and overall design will be borrowed from the Pulsar N150. For example, the LED headlamp, fuel tank and plastic parts on the sides appear to be the same as N150.2024 Bajaj Pulsar N125 Spy ShotsHowever, specific features such as the split seats and alloy wheels are borrowed from Pulsar NS125. Other key features spotted on the test mule include wide handlebar, sporty rear-view mirrors, underbelly exhaust, short tail section and tyre hugger. The bike offers a comfortable riding stance with centrally positioned footpegs and pulled-back handlebar. The seats appear to be comfy for both the rider and pillion.Pulsar N125 will have 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with tubeless tyres. 240 mm front disc and 130 mm rear drum brakes are likely. Powering the bike will be a 124.45 cc, air cooled, SOHC engine. It churns out 12 PS of max power and 11 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a 5-speed constant mesh gearbox.2024 Bajaj Pulsar N125 Spy ShotsPulsar N125 – Digital instrument consoleUpcoming Pulsar N125 is expected to get the same LCD instrument unit, as was recently introduced with the updated Pulsar NS125. A range of information is displayed such as speedometer, gear indicator, trip meter, odometer, RPM, clock and fuel level. Two dedicated buttons are provided to easily navigate the instrument unit. The LCD instrument has Bluetooth and can be paired with the user’s smartphone. It unlocks functions such as calls and text message notifications.Pulsar N125 – Launch date, PricingNew Bajaj Pulsar N125 is expected to be launched later this year around June. Positioned between the Pulsar 125 and Pulsar NS125, Pulsar N125 could be launched at a starting price of around Rs 1 lakh. It will primarily take on rivals such as TVS Raider 125 and the Hero Xtreme 125R.Upcoming Bajaj bikes in 2024Apart from Pulsar N125, Bajaj is also working on the updated versions of the Pulsar N250 and F250. Among the key updates will be USD front forks and a new digital instrument console. USD forks are already offered with Pulsar bikes such as NS160 and NS200. With the updates, the Pulsar N250 will have better capabilities against rival products such as KTM 250 Duke and Dominar 250. Bajaj is also working on a new CNG bike. It is expected to emerge as a game changer in the commuter segment.Source More

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      Bajaj Pulsar N250 2024 Model Launch Soon – USD Forks, Upgraded Tech

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      Bajaj Pulsar N250 2024With new features, Pulsar N250 will have improved capabilities against rivals such as KTM 250 Duke and Dominar 250With the Pulsar range contributing more than 2/3rd of Bajaj’s overall sales in the domestic market, it is imperative to introduce updates at regular intervals. Bajaj had earlier announced that six new Pulsar bikes will be launched by the end of FY-23. New versions of N150, N160, NS160 and NS200 have already been launched. Next month, Bajaj is likely to introduce the 2024 version of Pulsar N250.Bajaj Pulsar N250 2024 – New featuresOne of the key updates will be a new reverse LCD instrument screen with Bluetooth connectivity. It is likely to be the same unit, as introduced with the updated Pulsar NS200. With the Bajaj Ride Connect App, users will be able to pair their smartphones to access calls and text messages. Other information such as battery health and mobile signal strength will also be displayed.Bajaj Pulsar N250 2024The new LCD screen will also have turn-by-turn navigation. To access the functions of the instrument console, a dedicated mode button is expected to be added to the switchgear. New tech capabilities introduced with Pulsar N250 will enhance its appeal among young enthusiasts.While Pulsar bikes have always been liked for their peppy performance, the tech kit was often below expectations. Especially when compared to rival offerings. It appears that Bajaj is finally fixing all such issues with the new, updated Pulsar models.Will have similar speedo as the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar NS 125 seen above.New Pulsar N250 to get USD forksAt the time of their launch, Pulsar 250 twins were expected to get USD forks. However, the bikes were equipped with conventional telescopic forks. This was a bit disheartening for enthusiasts who were expecting the best features with the biggest Pulsar.The 2024 model will fix the issue, as it is expected to get USD forks. Bajaj already offers USD forks with Pulsar bikes such as NS160 and NS200. USD forks enable agile handling and fast cornering. The bike’s visual appeal is also improved with USD forks.New 2024 Pulsar N250 specs, performanceCore mechanicals will remain unchanged for 2024 Pulsar N250. The monoshock suspension at rear will be carried forward. The bike has 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 100/80 front and 130/70 rear tyres. Braking setup comprises 300 mm and 230 mm discs at front and rear, respectively. Seat height of 795 mm seems appropriate for optimal control and handling. New 2024 Pulsar N250 could lose some weight, which will help improve the bike’s power to weight ratio. The current model weighs 162 kg.Powering the Pulsar N250 is a 249.07 cc, single cylinder, 2-valve, oil cooled, FI engine. It generates 24.5 PS of max power and 21.5 Nm of peak torque. The bike has a constant mesh 5-speed gearbox. Updates for the bike are likely to result in slightly higher pricing. The current model is available at a starting price of Rs 1.50 lakh.Source More

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      Citroen eC3 Scores 0 Safety Rating In Global NCAP – Bodyshell Stable (Stellantis Statement)

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      Citroen eC3 crash test – Global NCAPCitroen C3 Electric Receives Disappointing Crash Test Results in IndiaIn a recent crash test conducted by Global NCAP, the safety rating for the Citroen C3 electric, also known as eC3, has been revealed, stirring concerns about its safety features. Launched in India in February 2023, the Citroen C3 electric garnered attention for its eco-friendly design and innovative features. However, the crash test results paint a different picture, highlighting significant safety shortcomings.Citroen C3 Electric Crash Test ResultsAccording to Global NCAP, the Citroen eC3 scored a dismal 0-star safety rating for adult passengers and a mere 1-star safety rating for child passengers. Despite being equipped with dual front airbags, seat belt reminders, and belt load limiters, the model lacked crucial safety features, contributing to its poor performance in the crash tests.Citroen eC3 crash test – Global NCAPGlobal NCAP noted that while the body shell integrity during frontal impacts remained stable, the absence of features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), ISOFIX, Side Airbags, and Knee Airbags undermined the overall safety rating. Additionally, the lack of side head protection made side pole impact testing impossible.In their assessment of adult safety, Global NCAP highlighted various deficiencies. Although the protection offered to the driver’s and passenger’s head and neck during frontal impacts was commendable, weak chest protection for the driver and poor chest protection for the passenger limited the rating to one star. Moreover, inadequate knee protection for the driver and unstable footwell areas further compromised safety.[embedded content]For child safety, Global NCAP observed that while the child seat for a 3-year-old installed forward-facing failed to prevent excessive forward exposure and head contact, side impact protection was satisfactory. However, concerns arose regarding the absence of three-point seat belts in all seating positions and insufficient Isofix positions as standard features.Consumer Awareness and Safety PrioritizationCommenting on the results, Global NCAP emphasized the importance of comprehensive safety measures in vehicles, especially in emerging markets like India. They urged manufacturers to prioritize safety features to protect both adult occupants and children in the event of a crash.Alejandro Furas, Global NCAP Secretary General said, “This is an appalling result from Stellantis. PSA was once a leader in safety, but now, as part of the Stellantis group, the manufacturer appears to have taken a major backward step. We hope that this apparent negative trend is corrected globally as a matter of urgency.”David Ward, Executive President of the Towards Zero Foundation said, “This result from Sellantis is of serious concern, not only for consumers in the Indian market but also for those in emerging economies around the world.”Manufacturer’s Response and Future ConsiderationsResponding to the crash test result, Stellantis has shared the following statement – “Stellantis confirms its vehicles comply with all current local market regulations and its commitment to safety with six airbags and additional safety features as standard across products in India during the second half of the year.” More

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      Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Launch Soon – New Spy Shots Reveal Details

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      Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spied – Highest Mileage?While Bajaj’s CNG Motorcycle will be the first of its kind in India, it will challenge popular ICE commuter bikes such as Splendor Plus and Honda Shine 100CNG has been used in cars in India since 2010, but it has limited applications in the two-wheeler segment. It’s true that RTO-approved CNG conversion kits were available for select scooters. But a factory-produced CNG two-wheeler has never materialized. The status quo is set to change, as Bajaj is planning to launch India’s first ever CNG Motorcycle later this year.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle – What to expect?High fuel efficiency – In the entry-level commuter segment, Bajaj currently offers the Platina and CT motorcycles. Among these, the most fuel efficient is the Platina 100 Motorcycle. Its ARAI certified range is 70 kmpl. The upcoming CNG bike is expected to have a higher mileage. It can emerge as the most fuel efficient in its class. Mileage is an important factor for users looking for a commuter bike. A best-in-class mileage will be a major USP for Bajaj’s upcoming CNG motorcycle.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spied – Highest Mileage?Borrow an existing engine – Bajaj’s upcoming CNG motorcycle could use the existing 110cc engine, as seen with Platina 110cc and CT110X. When running on petrol, this engine churns out 8.6 PS of max power and 9.81 Nm of max torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle could also get the 125cc engine in use with CT125X. As CNG is less power dense in comparison to petrol, a larger displacement will be needed to achieve the performance of a 100cc or 110cc petrol bike. Of course, the engine will be tweaked to support the greener fuel.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spied – Highest Mileage?Bi-fuel setup – Bajaj’s upcoming CNG bike is expected to have a bi-fuel setup. A dedicated switch could be there, allowing users to shift from CNG to petrol and vice-versa. The CNG tank will be located below the seat, whereas the petrol tank will be in its usual position.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spied – Highest Mileage?Bajaj CNG Motorcycle – Specs, featuresUpcoming Bajaj CNG bike is expected to get 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 80/100 tubeless tyres. A front disc and rear drum combo are on offer. Suspension setup comprises telescopic forks at front and a monoshock unit at rear.Both ABS and non-ABS variants could be offered. The CNG Motorcycle is expected to get a semi-digital instrument console with info such as gear indicator, gear guidance and ABS indicator. LED headlight can be seen in spy shots.Bajaj CNG Motorcycle Spied – Highest Mileage?Bajaj CNG bike – PricingWhile Bajaj CNG Motorcycle will have lower operational costs, it will be priced higher than the Platina 110cc bike. Bajaj could launch the CNG bike at a starting price of Rs 80,000. People looking at long-term benefits won’t mind the slightly higher pricing.Launch is likely to take place by June 2024. Along with the domestic market, Bajaj’s new CNG Motorcycle will also be sold across multiple global markets. Depending on its success, other two-wheeler manufacturers can also consider launching their respective CNG models. More

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      India’s Electric Vehicle Policy in the Spotlight – Import Duty At 15% For CKD

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      Tesla India launch expected this yearPowering Production: India’s EV Policy and Manufacturing RequirementsThe Union Government’s E-Vehicle Policy in India could be a pivotal step towards transforming the automotive industry. This regulatory framework outlines stringent yet strategic measures. This is aimed at fostering the growth of electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing (in the years to come) within the country.One of the policy’s key features is the stipulation of a minimum investment requirement of Rs 4,150 Cr, while also eliminating any maximum investment limit. This provision encourages substantial capital infusion into the EV sector. Which of course is essential for establishing robust manufacturing facilities and infrastructure.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy MandatesThe policy mandates that manufacturing facilities must be operational within three years. Commercial production should be commencing within the same timeframe. Dedicated timelines highlight efforts at expediting the adoption and proliferation of EVs. Domestic Value Addition (DVA) emerges as another crucial aspect of the policy putting focus on the need for indigenous production. DVA targets are set at 25 percent by the 3rd year, and 50 percent by the 5th year.India’s Electric Vehicle Policy – Emission MissionThe policy imposes 15 percent custom duty on vehicles with a CIF value exceeding USD 35,000 (About Rs 30 lakhs pre duty + tax) for a duration of five years. Additionally, it outlines provisions for limited imports, capping the maximum number of permissible imports at 40,000 EVs. Annual import numbers should not be exceeding 8,000 units.To ensure commitment and compliance, investors are required to furnish bank guarantees, serving as a financial security mechanism. Failure to meet DVA and investment criteria may lead to the invocation of these bank guarantees. Thereby reinforcing accountability and adherence to the policy’s mandates.The latest announcement sets forth a comprehensive roadmap for the sustainable development of the Indian automotive industry. By striking a balance between regulatory measures and incentivising investments, it aims to propel India towards a cleaner, greener, and more technologically advanced future. To make progress, the policy needs to lay strong emphasis on fostering innovation and technological advancement within the EV sector. By encouraging research and development initiatives, one can hope for cost efficient EVs that fit into people’s purchase plans.Domestic Dynamo: Policy Looks To Energise IndustryAs it stands, the policy serves as a catalyst for job creation and skill development in the automotive sector. Establishment of manufacturing facilities and the subsequent increase in production volumes will generate employment opportunities. This would be across various skill levels, from assembly line workers to engineers specialising in electric vehicle technology.Developing the E-Vehicle Policy aligns with India’s broader economic and environmental objectives. As a signatory to international agreements, India is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and transitioning towards more sustainable forms of transportation. The promotion of electric vehicles through this policy is aimed at achieving these targets. This is based on global dialogues that view EVs as inherently cleaner while producing fewer emissions compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. More

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      Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered – For Upcoming Electric SUVs

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      Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered. Image – Shantanu GodaseNames like XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO are easy to remember and establish a clear differentiation between respective ICE and EV modelsIn a couple of years from now, Mahindra will have expanded its EV portfolio to include multiple new products. The names for these new EVs are also being worked out. It appears that Mahindra is keen on picking some short, trendy names, in line with the dynamic profile of its upcoming EVs.Mahindra Trademarks XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XOInstead of choosing entirely new names for its upcoming EVs, Mahindra seems to be using a derivative of its existing naming convention. The newly trademarked names XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO are apparently the EV versions of XUV700, XUV500, XUV300 and an all new small SUV EV. It is likely that these new names will be used for production versions of the XUV EV concepts which were shown earlier.Mahindra XUV 1XO Name RegisteredThe addition of X in the new names links it to the electric underpinnings and the letter ending with O meets Mahindra’s tradition of vehicle naming (Bolero, Scorpio, Marazzo, etc). While they also relate to their ICE versions, the names are short, crisp and easy to remember. A high recall value is expected, similar to the names of the ICE models.Mahindra XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO – Expected featuresExcluding the closed-off grille, several of the styling bits will be common across the ICE and EV models of XUV700 and XUV300. The equipment list will also have a similar set of features. The EV versions will probably be able to support a higher number of tech features.Mahindra XUV 3XO Name RegisteredFor its born-electric range, Mahindra is working on multiple segment-first features. For example, a test mule of XUV.e9 was recently spotted with a triple-screen dashboard. While being functionally relevant, it significantly enhances cabin aesthetics. The triple-screen unit covers almost the entire width of the dash. It helps achieve a symmetrical design format, which is not possible with the popular dual-screen setup seen with many SUVs.Mahindra XUV 5XO Name RegisteredIt is possible that the XUV 7XO and 5XO could get this new triple-screen dash. In comparison, XUV 3XO and X1O may continue with a solo touchscreen infotainment system. Bigger SUVs could get additional connectivity and safety features. The ADAS kit could be expanded in the case of XUV 7XO and 5XO. XUV 3XO and 1XO could also get some of the critical ADAS features such as blind spot detection, traffic sign recognition and driver drowsiness detection.Mahindra XUV 7XO, XUV 5XO, XUV 3XO, XUV 1XO – Expected range, battery specsUpcoming Mahindra EVs will be based on the new INGLO architecture. Battery packs will be in the range of 60 kWh to 80 kWh for the bigger SUVs. While XUV 7XO and 5XO could get both single-motor and dual-motor AWD options, the XUV 3XO and 1XO are likely to be offered with only a single electric motor. Detailed specs are yet to be revealed, although the new INGLO platform promises significant improvements across performance, drive comfort and versatility.Mahindra XUV 5XO Name RegisteredXUV 7XO, 5XO and XUV 3XO will have a range upwards of 400-450 km while XUV1XO could have a range of about 200-250 kms. With rapid progress in charging infrastructure, an extraordinary high range may not be required. Also, the focus is shifting on achieving a faster recharge. This allows users to load up quickly within minutes and resume their journey. However, experiments with newer battery technologies continue that can deliver a much higher range.Mahindra XUV 7XO, 5XO, 3XO, 1XO Names Registered More

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      Ather CEO Shares What To Expect From Community Day – Rizta, Updates And More

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      New Ather 450X. Image – Anubhav ChauhanThe main highlight for Ather Community Day on 6th April is the reveal of upcoming Ather Rizta family electric scooterBengaluru-based Indian electric mobility startup, Ather Energy, is among the leading electric scooter manufacturers of this country. Apart from the new Ather Rizta family scooter, the company is excited to introduce and announce a bunch of new stuff on Ather Community Day on April 6th 2024. Here’s what to expect.Ather Community Day 2024 – 6th AprilCurrently selling premium, thrill-driven and cutting-edge electric scooters, Ather is stepping into the realm of conventional, with the launch of Rizta family scooter. This will be Ather’s most affordable scooter on sale in India yet, catering to a diverse audience. Also, a family scooter is larger and a lot more accommodating and practical than 450S and 450X.Ather Rizta Electric Scooter SpiedAther demonstrated Rizta’s practicality time and time again by showing its large seat and comparing it with best-selling family scooter in India, Honda Activa. The company has even put up Sabse Bada Seat Billboard in select cities as part of its marketing. Ather will unveil Rizta scooter at its Community Day event on April 6th.Apart from Rizta, Ather is set to unveil a lot more. Taking to social media platforms, Ather Energy CEO Tarun Mehta and Co-Founder Swapnil Jain revealed a brief glimpse of what to expect from Ather Community Day scheduled on 6th of April 2024. Despite the main highlight being Rizta scooter, there are more to expect.[embedded content]CEO and Co-Founder Reveal What To Expect From Ather Community DayFor starters, Ather’s ACDC event (Ather Community Day) will take place on 6th of April, 2024 in Bengaluru city, Karnataka. Ather CEO, Tarun Mehta, promised a substantially larger Ather Community Day event for 2024 when compared to last year’s. This year, there are a lot of reveals slated to be revealed on the stage. He further revealed more key information about the upcoming Rizta family scooter that will be showcased on the stage. The bigger seat will also bring bigger under-seat storage as well. USB charging will be seen on this Rizta scooter too.Co-founder Swapnil Jain joined Mehta and mentioned Ather will reveal a new accessory on 6th April. A smart accessory, at that. This “secret Ather accessory” is coined for the first time for any Ather vehicle and the company is hush-hush about finer details of this new smart accessory. One can win this upcoming accessory for free too, apparently.Spilling more about Ather’s newest 450 Apex electric scooter, Tarun Mehta revealed that the company’s flagship scooter has been reaching dealerships. This is where one can see and try 450 Apex in person. Or even win one. “Seriously, no joke” said Ather CEO. Company is promising the roll-out of AtherStack 6, which is touted as their biggest OTA update yet.Ather promises cool new features like messaging support on right from scooter’s dashboard along with a new mobile application. Company also announced an Oscar for EV and will honour the winner of Ather Unlocked 2nd Edition. More details will be revealed in a month’s time from now, at the ACDC event. More