Ather's R&D Revolution: The Juggernaut Sets New Standards

Ather Energy has enhanced its research and development (R&D) and testing capabilities with the expansion of its product testing and validation centre, The Juggernaut, in Begur, Bengaluru. Spanning 38,692 sq. ft., the facility is dedicated to validating the durability and safety of vehicles, systems, and components at all levels, including real-world endurance testing. It features specialised laboratories for structural durability, battery performance, electrical and electronics reliability, and environmental testing. Key testing equipment includes a 4 DOF road simulator and the MTS 334 road load simulator, which allow for targeted suspension frame testing, early bug detection, and accelerated design optimisation. Swapnil Jain, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Ather Energy, underscored the importance of rigorous testing in the development of electric vehicles (EVs). "Our products undergo exhaustive tests that are tailored to Indian riding conditions and demanding usage patterns, ensuring they reflect the actual experiences of our customers," he explained. Ather employs a multi-layered validation approach, ensuring thorough testing at every phase. Ather operates three R&D facilities in Bengaluru, one of which is officially recognised as an in-house R&D unit by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). The company offers two scooter models: the Ather 450, designed for performance, and the Rizta, built for convenience. Ather also operates two manufacturing plants in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, for vehicle assembly and battery production and is in the process of establishing a third facility in Bidkin, Maharashtra. News by Rahul Yelligetti.