Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 vs. Ather 450X: The Ultimate Performance Battle 2026 India Review

The Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 vs Ather 450X comparison defines the premium electric scooter segment in India for 2026. Both models combine high-speed performance, advanced software ecosystems, and PM E-DRIVE subsidy eligibility.

While the Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 focuses on maximum range and aggressive performance numbers, the Ather 450X prioritizes precision engineering, thermal efficiency, and ride stability.

Prices in 2026 range between ₹1.42 lakh and ₹1.74 lakh (ex-showroom, depending on state and subsidy application).

PM E-DRIVE Subsidy and EV Market Relevance in 2026

India’s EV ecosystem has transitioned from FAME-II to the PM E-DRIVE subsidy scheme.

Subsidy Eligibility

Both scooters qualify for:

• ₹10,000 subsidy (for batteries up to 4kWh)
• Incentives under state EV policies
• Reduced running cost per km compared to petrol scooters

This segment now targets performance-focused urban buyers demanding:

• High-speed stability
• Fast charging infrastructure
• Accurate IDC range vs true range figures
• OTA software updates

Battery Capacity, Range and Real-World Performance

Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 Battery and Range

• 4.0 kWh battery pack
• 4680 lithium-ion cells
• IDC Range: 195 km
• True Range (Eco): 155 km
• True Range (Sport/Hyper): 110 km

Ola’s vertical integration and 4680 battery cells improve energy density and heat management.

Ather 450X Battery and Range

• 3.7 kWh NMC battery
• IDC Range: 150 km
• True Range (SmartEco): 110 km
• True Range (Warp): 75 km

Ather Stack 6 ensures accurate range prediction and consistent power delivery.

Motor Power, Peak Torque and Top Speed Comparison

Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 Performance

• Mid-drive motor
• Peak Power: 11 kW
• Peak Torque: ~58 Nm
• Top Speed: 120 km/h
• 0–40 km/h: 2.6 seconds

Ather 450X Performance

• PMSM motor
• Peak Power: 6.4 kW
• Peak Torque: ~26 Nm
• Top Speed: 90 km/h (100 km/h Apex)
• 0–40 km/h: 3.3 seconds

Ola wins in outright acceleration and highway capability.
Ather focuses on smooth and controlled performance delivery.

Charging Time and EV Charging Network in India

Ola Hypercharger Network

• 50 km range in 15 minutes
• 0–80% home charging: 4.5 hours

Ather Grid Fast Charging

• 1.5 km per minute charging speed
• 0–80% home charging: 4.5 hours

Ather Grid has a reputation for better uptime reliability, while Ola is expanding aggressively.

Detailed Specifications Comparison Table (Delhi Ex-Showroom)

Features and Software Ecosystem

Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 – MoveOS 5

• 7-inch touchscreen
• Cruise control
• Hill Hold 2.0
• AI range prediction
• 34L boot space
• OTA updates
• Proximity unlock

Ather 450X – Ather Stack 6

• Google Maps integration
• AutoHold
• FallSafe feature
• Aluminum spaceframe chassis
• OTA updates
• 22L boot space

Ola delivers more features per rupee.
Ather delivers premium fit-finish and reliability.

Real-World Ride and Ownership Experience

Ride and Handling

• Ola: Comfortable suspension, slightly soft at high speeds
• Ather: Stiffer suspension, 50:50 weight balance, sharper cornering

Service Network

• Ather: More consistent service reputation
• Ola: Rapid expansion but mixed feedback in tier-2 cities

Electricity Cost Per Km

Assuming ₹8 per unit:

• Ola: ₹0.21 per km
• Ather: ₹0.27 per km

Both significantly cheaper than petrol scooters.

Pros and Cons

Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 Pros

• Highest top speed in segment
• Larger battery capacity
• 8-year warranty
• Bigger boot

Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 Cons

• Occasional software bugs
• Non-removable battery
• Panel finish inconsistencies

Ather 450X Pros

• Premium build quality
• Accurate range prediction
• Superior city handling
• Reliable Ather Grid

Ather 450X Cons

• Lower top speed
• Smaller boot
• Higher pricing

Final Verdict – Which Electric Scooter Should You Buy in 2026?

Choose Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 if:

• You prioritize maximum performance
• You want longer IDC range
• You prefer aggressive acceleration
• You value long battery warranty

Choose Ather 450X if:

• You want better ride stability
• You prioritize handling precision
• You prefer consistent service experience
• You value mechanical refinement

Conclusion

In the ultimate Ola S1 Pro Gen 3 vs Ather 450X performance comparison (2026):

• Ola wins on paper with superior specs.
• Ather wins on real-world ride dynamics.

Your final decision depends on whether you prefer raw performance numbers or refined everyday usability.