Bengaluru-based Ather Energy is charging into the public market with an INR 29.81 billion initial public offering (IPO), marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of India’s electric mobility space. The IPO, which opens for public bidding on April 28 and closes on April 30, reflects growing confidence in India’s electric vehicle (EV) market, even as global trade dynamics remain uncertain.
Priced between INR 304 and INR 321 per equity share, Ather’s offering consists of a fresh issue worth INR 26.26 billion and an Offer for Sale (OFS) of approximately INR 3.55 billion. Early stakeholders offloading shares include co-founders Tarun Mehta and Swapnil Jain, as well as prominent institutional investors such as Caladium Investment, National Investment and Infrastructure Fund II and Hero MotoCorp-backed venture arms.

A Strategic Leap 
Founded in 2013, Ather Energy has built a reputation for innovation and quality in the Indian two-wheeler segment. Best known for its flagship 450X electric scooter and the recently launched family-oriented Rizta, Ather has maintained a premium positioning in a price-sensitive market, a feat achieved through a blend of robust design, cutting-edge tech and consistent consumer engagement.
Now, as the company seeks to raise capital for the next leg of its journey, the strategic intent behind the IPO is clear. Proceeds from the fresh issue will be used to ramp up manufacturing capacity, enhance the product portfolio, pare down debt and invest in corporate infrastructure. This expansion is crucial for Ather to retain its competitive edge against deep-pocketed rivals, including legacy automakers and well-funded start-ups.

Driving Growth
At a recent press conference, Chief Executive Officer Tarun Mehta struck an optimistic note on the state of India’s EV ecosystem. “While the entire tariff situation is open, in our opinion, the Indian consumer story, specifically the EV adoption story, remains unchallenged because it’s driven by very secular truths,” he said.
Mehta highlighted three primary factors underpinning the surge in electric two-wheeler adoption including a significantly lower total cost of ownership, greater ease of use and long-term structural shifts favouring clean mobility. These drivers provide insulation against short-term geopolitical disruptions and policy volatility.
That confidence appears to be resonating with both retail and institutional investors with many market watchers calling the IPO a barometer of the Indian EV market’s maturity.

IPO Mechanics and Market Positioning
The offering is being made under Regulation 6(2) of the SEBI ICDR Regulations via a 100 percent book-building process with shares set to list on both the BSE and the NSE. Anchor investor bidding opens on April 25, ahead of the general subscription window.
 

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Mumbai-based startup ACS Energy has successfully secured INR 11 million in a pre-seed funding round. The investment was spearheaded by Inflection Point Ventures (IPV). This financial boost will enable the company to deploy over 5,000 new UPI-enabled EV charging stations across the key states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, enhancing accessibility for residential and commercial users alike.

ACS Energy (Ayka Control Systems Pvt. Ltd.) is tackling a critical gap in India's electric vehicle ecosystem by focusing on complex urban settings. The company specialises in developing charging solutions for high-rise buildings and large residential townships, an often underserved segment despite increasing regulatory mandates for EV infrastructure in new real estate projects.

Since its establishment in 2022, the startup has been a pioneer, introducing India's first UPI-based payment system for EV charging. This innovation eliminates the need for multiple mobile applications or subscriptions, creating a seamless, digital-first experience for users. Their product line includes universally compatible smart AC chargers for various vehicle types, supported by the proprietary ACS pay platform. The technology leverages artificial intelligence to effectively manage power loads and ensure swift, transparent transactions.

The founding team, Jash Sheth and Mihir Bhanushali, brings a strong blend of technical and engineering expertise to the venture. Sheth's background includes experience in India's nuclear power sector and involvement with other successful startup founding teams. Together, they are driving a vision to make sustainable mobility more practical and less cumbersome through intelligent infrastructure.

Beyond expanding its physical charging network, a portion of the new capital will be dedicated to advancing energy management systems. These systems are designed to bring smarter power distribution and sophisticated load balancing to urban buildings, promoting greater overall energy efficiency. Currently operating in cities such as Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad, ACS Energy is rapidly scaling its operations to build a robust network that connects city dwellers and emerging EV hubs.

Mitesh Shah, Co-Founder, IPV, said, “India’s EV revolution is incomplete without a strong support system fuelling its growth. The transition from fuel-based energy to green energy has to be more accessible and seamless. ACS Energy offers more than just a charger – it is a full hardware and software package that makes charging quick, transparent and hassle-free. Their UPI-based system means anyone can pay instantly, which makes EV charging as seamless as buying groceries.”

Jash Sheth, Founder & CEO, ACS Energy, said, “At a petrol pump, you don’t think twice – you just pay and move. EV charging should be just as simple. With India’s first UPI-enabled charging network, we’re bringing that same ease to the EV ecosystem. Alongside, we’re launching our AI-driven Energy Management Systems to help buildings and DISCOMs manage load intelligently. This fundraise will power our mission to simplify charging and optimise energy use across India.”

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Tata.ev, India's largest four-wheeler EV manufacturer, has partnered with charging operator Voltran to inaugurate 14 new high-speed Tata.ev MegaChargers across the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, creating what the company calls the nation's first fully manned public EV charging stations.

The new charging hubs are strategically located on major intercity routes, including the Hyderabad–Bengaluru, Hyderabad–Vijayawada and Vijayawada–Chennai corridors, significantly boosting seamless long-distance electric vehicle travel in South India.

Each MegaCharger station is staffed 24x7 by trained marshals to ensure a 'fuel refuelling experience' for customers, offering reliability and service assurance. Crucially, the stations allow for payment via cash, card, or UPI post-charging, removing the need for an app for the transaction. They also feature air-conditioned lounges, clean washrooms, and multiple food options.

This latest rollout increases the Tata.ev MegaCharger network to over 70 operational sites nationwide, part of the company's 'Open Collaboration 2.0' framework to accelerate charging infrastructure. Tata.ev aims to introduce over 500 MegaChargers by 2027.

Balaje Rajan, Chief Strategy Officer, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility and Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, said, "As the EV revolution continues its strong momentum, the demand for accessible, widespread, and reliable charging infrastructure has become increasingly critical. In partnership with Voltran, we’re proud to inaugurate 14 Tata.ev MegaChargers across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana — the first of their kind EV charging stations manned 24/7 by trained marshals. These fast-charging hubs connect major cities, enabling seamless EV travel across key locations in these states. With over 70 Tata.ev MegaChargers now nationwide, this milestone reinforces our commitment to fast, reliable, and fuel station-like charging experiences, driving effortless mobility across India.”

Raja Sekhar Upputuri, CEO, Voltran, said, "We are excited to partner with Tata.ev to launch our co-branded Tata.ev x Voltran MegaCharger Stations across all major highways in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. These hubs are manned 24x7 and customers don't need an app to charge as they can pay with cash, card or UPI post charging. On top of that, all these hubs are equipped with air-conditioned lounges, clean washrooms and multiple food options. Together with Tata.ev, we reimagined the future of EV charging in India - fast, reliable & super convenient. We look forward to building upon this momentum and expanding it to more locations in the days to come.”

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Tesla held its first-ever public pop-up showcase in India at Ambience Mall in Gurugram, attracting thousands of visitors interested in the automaker’s electric vehicles and sustainability credentials.

Ambience Mall, which has become a platform for premium and international consumer brands, was selected for its modern infrastructure, high footfall and affluent customer base, according to the venue. Visitors were given a close look at the Tesla Model Y, marking the company’s initial public display in the city.

The mall authorties said the event reinforces its position as a preferred launch venue for global names entering or expanding in India with a history of hosting world-class brand showcases and firsts.

Hosting Tesla’s first-ever pop-up in India reaffirms our position as the preferred venue for premium international brands,” said Arjun Gehlot, Director of Ambience Malls. “Our space celebrates technology, design and sustainability, reflecting the aspirations of today’s consumers.”

Ambience Mall authorties said the showcase represents another milestone as it focuses on experiences at the intersection of retail, technology and lifestyle, catering to a growing Indian audience seeking innovative mobility solutions.

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Bengaluru-based electric vehicle maker Ola Electric has announced the commencement of deliveries for the S1 Pro+ (5.2kWh) powered by the company's 4680 Bharat Cell battery pack.

With this, the S1 Pro+ becomes the company’s first product to use its indigenously manufactured 4680 Bharat Cell. With its own battery packs in the vehicles, Ola Electric is now India's first company to fully own the battery pack and cell manufacturing process in-house.

The company recently secured ARAI certification under the latest AIS-156 Amendment 4 standards from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for its 4680 Bharat Cell battery packs in the 5.2 kWh configuration.

The S1 Pro+ (5.2kWh) is powered by a 13 kW motor and offers acceleration of 0-40 kmph in 2.1 seconds. It comes with a range of 320km (IDC with DIY mode). The S1 Pro+ has four riding modes: Hyper, Sports, Normal & Eco and includes dual ABS and disk brakes in the front and rear.

“With deliveries of 4680 Bharat Cell powered vehicles underway, we are taking a giant leap towards achieving true energy independence. This milestone is not just about the 4680 Bharat Cell, it’s about India owning the future of energy and mobility. Our in-house cell technology enables us to build products with greater range, performance, and safety - all designed and made right here in India. The 4680 Bharat Cell is a symbol of India’s capability to lead the world in EV innovation, and this is just the beginning,” an Ola Electric spokesperson stated.

Ola Electric offers a portfolio of S1 scooters and Roadster X motorcycles, including the S1 Pro+ in 5.2kWh and 4kWh configurations and the S1 Pro in 4kWh and 3kWh configurations. Mass market offerings include Gen 3 S1 X+ (4kWh) and Gen 3 S1 X (2kWh, 3kWh, and 4kWh). The company also offers the S1 Pro Sport and the Roadster X motorcycle portfolio.              

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