Hero MotoCorp, Ather Partner To Boost EV Fast-Charging Network Countrywide

Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy have joined forces to establish an interoperable fast-charging network in the country. The partnership aims to provide electric vehicle (EV) users with the convenience of seamlessly utilizing both VIDA and Ather Grids nationwide. The expansive network is set to span 100 cities and include over 1,900 fast-charging points.

Dr Swadesh Srivastava, Chief Business Officer, Emerging Mobility BU, Hero MotoCorp, expressed optimism about the venture, stating, “This largest charging network in the country will go a long way in providing a seamless and convenient ownership experience to customers. This fastest-growing network utilizes the government-approved connector-standard, thus ensuring current and future customers will be able to use and charge their vehicles without any hassles.”

Enhanced User Experience

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) recently granted approval for the Light Electric Combined Charging System (LECCS), marking India's inaugural indigenously developed AC and DC Combined Charging connector standard for light electric vehicles.

To enhance user experience, customers can locate and navigate to charging stations through the "My VIDA" and Ather App. The interoperability feature allows users to discover compatible locations, find the nearest charging station, check its availability, and navigate to the selected station.

In the context of market dynamics, the domestic two-wheeler segment witnessed robust demand in November, attributed to the festive season. This resulted in a notable 20-21 per cent year-on-year growth. Hero MotoCorp, in particular, reported a 26 per cent increase in volumes during November.

Upping Charging Infrastructure Countrywide

Swapnil Jain, Co-founder and CTO of Ather Energy, emphasized the significance of OEM collaboration in scaling up charging infrastructure. "It's a massive win for Indian original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to collaborate on scaling up charging infrastructure. This partnership will pave the way for consumers to access an extensive network of charging stations across the country, alleviating range anxiety."

Jain added that any OEM adopting the LECCS standard will gain access to Ather Grid facilities throughout India. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in enhancing the accessibility and convenience of EV charging infrastructure, contributing to the growth and acceptance of electric mobility in the country.

Recently, Ather had announced its willingness to extend support to fellow players in the electric vehicle (EV) sector by offering free assistance in adopting its standardized charging connector. This connector has received recognition from the Bureau of Indian Standards, signifying its adherence to established industry norms, the company informed.

The electric two-wheeler maker is also working to increase its own charging network to 2,500 by March 2024 from the current 1,600 even as it is in talks with other manufacturers for adoption of its charging connector.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Hero MotoCorp and Ather Energy to create a widespread fast-charging network not only reflects a positive industry shift but also sets the groundwork for a more user-friendly and widely accessible electric vehicle charging infrastructure, contributing to the continued growth of the electric mobility sector in the country.