In a notable development, Ather Energy, a prominent player in the electric scooter market, has announced its decision to implement a charging fee for the usage of Ather Grid fast-charging points. Effective from August 1st, users in Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu will be charged Rs. 1 per minute plus applicable GST for availing of the Grid fast-charging services.
Traditionally known for offering free charging access to all users at Ather Grid charging points, this shift represents a strategic move by the electric scooter manufacturer to ensure more efficient and equitable usage of their charging infrastructure.
Unlike the previous model where the charging cost was based on the amount of electricity consumed, Ather’s new pricing structure calculates the fee according to the time the scooter remains plugged into the charging station. This modification aims to encourage responsible charging practices while making charging sessions more accessible to a larger number of users.
The decision to introduce charging fees stems from Ather’s commitment to promoting widespread electric vehicle (EV) adoption. While the Ather Grid network had been accessible to all since 2018, the company observed that the absence of charging fees had led to congestion and issues for riders, particularly due to prolonged charger hogging. To address this concern, Ather is setting a cut-off limit, ensuring that scooters cannot exceed 80% charge capacity during a fast charging session.
By implementing a nominal charging fee, Ather aims to instill a more balanced and efficient utilization of their Grid network. This measure is expected to result in shorter charging sessions and a higher frequency of charger usage, benefiting a larger pool of EV owners.
The Ather Grid was designed to offer swift charging solutions for EV users on the move. The introduction of charging fees aligns with Ather’s vision of optimizing the charging experience and enabling more considerate usage of their charging infrastructure. With the new model in place, users will only be charged for the duration they require, freeing up charging points for those who genuinely require them.
