Bangalore To Get 60 More EV Charging Points In 2018

There will be an all-weather charging point within 4km from any point in the city after the project is complete

Ather Energy, a startup better known for making electric two-wheelers has commenced the installation of 60 charging points across Bengaluru. While the EV startup has set itself a deadline of December 2018, it aims to set up 30 such charging points by the end of May this year. These charging stations will be optimized to juice up all electric vehicles, be it two or four wheelers. Below is the official press release that states further details of Ather Energy’s initiative.

Press Release

Bengaluru, 21 May 2018 - Ather Energy today announced the launch of their charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs), AtherGrid, which is open to all EVs. The company, known for their intelligent, electric scooter S340, has begun installations of the intelligent and connected charging stations across the city of Bangalore. 30 charging points will be set up by the end of May 2018. By the end of the year, 60 charging points will be available in Bangalore. With this, there will be a charging station within 4 km driving distance from any point in the city.  This is the largest charging infrastructure effort in an Indian city. Related: Electric Vehicles In India Likely To Get Green Number Plates Soon

Installed at malls, cafes, restaurants, tech parks, multiplexes and gyms, they have been selected to cater to both, four wheelers and two wheelers. For this, Ather has partnered with host locations, who have installed Points pro-bono at their premises to offer a convenient experience for all EV owners in the city. To improve EV ownership experience and increase adoption, AtherGrid and its accompanying app will be offered for free for the next 6 months to all electric vehicle owners. Using cloud connectivity, consumers can find the nearest Point available and navigate to the charging location using the app. Remotely monitoring charge status and integrated payment options offers EV owners a seamless charging experience.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Tarun Mehta, Co-founder and CEO, Ather Energy said, “Electric vehicles cannot become a viable alternative without making charging infrastructure availability a greater priority. It is critical for us to make public charging convenient and accessible. This is an important step towards increased adoption and acceptance of electric vehicles and in the long run will have a positive effect on the cost of the vehicles themselves. The number of entrepreneurs and businesses that have come aboard to be a part of AtherGrid is also a testament to the future of electric vehicles. As we prepare ourselves for the launch of the Ather S340, Bangalore was a natural choice to be the home city for AtherGrid. Range anxiety and the inconvenience associated with charging will not be a deterrent to adoption, as the industry grows.” Also Read: Now Ride In Mahindra eVerito Cabs In Hyderabad

Ather’s Points have been designed and manufactured in India, keeping in mind the needs of the domestic power grid. Safety features ensure that electricity is drawn only when connected to a vehicle and protects vehicles from overcharging with auto power cut off. Electric vehicles will be protected from undervoltage, overvoltage and overcurrent.  And with an IP55 rated body it is safe to use in any weather.