Archives January 2024

11th January 2024: Every year on 26th January, India comes together to celebrate its unwavering commitment to democracy and the establishment of citizens’ rights. Marking 75 years of our Constitution coming into effect, BIG FM, one of the country’s leading radio networks, has introduced ‘BIG Indiagram 3.0’ – an innovative initiative showcasing the creation of virtual Jhankis of India’. This Republic Day, the campaign’s core thought is to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to connect with the audience and promote the idea of cultural unity. Through this initiative, BIG FM invites people nationwide to express their creativity and love for the country using modern technology, highlighting its fast-paced advancements.

BIG Indiagram 3.0 also highlights the significance of #MeraWalaBharat, promoting the idea ‘One India My India’ evoking a primary goal to foster deeper connections with the country’s royal heritage. With its creative concept, users can now upload personal photos on the official website – https://indiagram.bigfmindia.com/ – utilising AI algorithms to dynamically generate collages that seamlessly integrate their images with selected pride points. Making the campaign more interactive, users can also participate in quizzes and appreciate each other’s Jhankis by casting their votes and ranking them.

Commenting on the initiative, Sunil Kumaran, COO, BIG FM, said, “As we connect with audiences nationwide through our distinctive BIG Indiagram 3.0 initiative, we aim to amplify cultural narratives, instilling pride and celebrating the multitude of expressions that collectively make our country incredible. In this digital age, it is important to use technology to bridge traditions with innovations and we stand firm in our commitment to ensuring that the heartbeat of India’s diverse heritage resonates strongly for generations to come.”

BIG FM will felicitate five winners who have represented different regions and showcased their creative visions as full-scale Jhankis. Taking the excitement a notch higher, winners will be announced at the Northern Command – Indian Army Headquarters in Delhi. Furthermore, an exhibition will also be displayed with montage pictures of all the Jhankis from participants across the country as a token of appreciation.

So, this Republic Day, bring your artistic flair to life! Visit https://indiagram.bigfmindia.com/ and share your unique ‘Jhanki of India’ with us now!

11th January 2024; Sambalpur: IIM Sambalpur, one of India’s premier management institutions, hosted its CEO Immersion Programme for Executive MBA for batches 2022-24 and 2023-25 at its Sambalpur campus. The programme aims to equip the batch with practical knowledge, industry trends, and leadership skills through direct interaction with seasoned professionals. As many as 77 working professionals participated in the programme. Dr Alok Kumar Mishra, Joint Secretary, Association of Indian Universities, Government of India also shared insights about the evolving landscape of executive education.

In his welcome address, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “The CEO Immersion Programme is an integral part of IIM Sambalpur’s commitment to fostering a holistic learning environment for the executive MBA batch. He also underscored the importance of essential qualities required for a CEO, i.e., a leader and stated, “To be a good leader, it requires a blend of risk-taking, emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and social skills.” Prof Jaiswal also cited the example of Lord Krishna and said, “Self-regulation is paramount, and students should endeavour to cultivate this quality.”

Addressing as the chief guest, Mr Kailash Pandey, President and Cluster Head of Hindalco Industries Limited outlined the essential elements for successful business operations, emphasizing the importance of ‘4S’ including strategy, structure, system, and skill and said, “Today, managing a business goes beyond handling equipment and customers; it involves effectively managing employees and teams.”

Mr Chetan Shrivastav, the Guest of Honour and Executive Director and Unit Head of Dalmia Cement Bharat Limited shared the importance of teamwork and said, “To navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, one must possess learning agility and emotional maturity. These qualities are imperative for not only surviving but excelling in a dynamic environment, ultimately leading to excellent results.”

The event commenced with an Introductory Address by Prof. Shikha Bharadwaj, Chairperson of Exe-MBA, IIM Sambalpur. During the programme, Mrs Sharada Gupta of Delhi, wife of Dr. Girish Mohan Gupta, an MBA for Working Professionals student at IIM Sambalpur Delhi Campus, was awarded a scholarship of one lakh to selected meritorious MBA female students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, including Aarushi Shrivastava, Sapkal Gouri Ganesh, Himansi Soni, and Ujala Singh, in recognition of their academic excellence.

It is to be recalled that the CEO Immersion Programme for MBA for Working Professionals was recently conducted at the Delhi Centre of IIM Sambalpur.

New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, 11th January 2024 Roadzen Inc. (Nasdaq: RDZN), a global pioneer in AI-driven insurance and mobility solutions, announced the appointment of Jean-Noël Gallardo as its new Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Gallardo brings over two decades of experience in financial planning and analysis, treasury management, compliance, fundraising, and M&A, making him an integral addition to the Roadzen leadership team.

With his extensive experience in insurance, brokerage, and claims administration throughout the US and EU, Mr. Gallardo is ideally positioned to propel Roadzen’s continued expansion. He will play a crucial role in enhancing Roadzen’s financial and operational playbook, overseeing investor and analyst engagement, and steering strategic financial initiatives.

Most recently, Mr. Gallardo was the Vice President of Finance at Aclaimant, Inc., an insurance platform for safety and risk management. His prior roles include CFO of LJR Holdings, Inc., a privately-held California-based holding company with third-party claims administrator and managed care subsidiaries, Vice President of Finance for Gallagher Bassett Services, Inc., the risk management unit of international broker Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., and leading the FP&A function for CNA’s Small Commercial business. Mr. Gallardo began his career in investment banking, focusing on M&A for middle-market companies throughout North America. He earned his M.B.A. in Finance from the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business.

Jean-Noël Gallardo spoke about his new role: “I am thrilled to join Roadzen, a company that leads with innovation in mobility and insurance on a global scale. The company’s strong presence in key markets and its leadership in AI are particularly exciting to me as I take on the role of Global Chief Financial Officer. I am committed to driving strategic financial initiatives that will not only reinforce Roadzen’s position but will also create new pathways for sustained high growth.”

Rohan Malhotra, Co-Founder and CEO of Roadzen, commented, “As we continue to strengthen our leadership at Roadzen, I am delighted to welcome Jean-Noël Gallardo to the team. His knowledge, experience, and exceptional track record in the insurance industry make him the perfect choice to guide Roadzen’s global financial strategy. I would also like to thank our outgoing CFO, Mohit Pasricha, who played a pivotal role in Roadzen’s journey to our public listing and continues to be a vital member of our leadership team.”

11th January 2023: News18 North East Assam is pleased to announce an 11-day special program around Magh Bihu demonstrating its commitment to showcasing the essence of Assamese culture. Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu is a festival celebrated by the entire state as it marks the culmination of the harvest season in January. The exclusive program aims to capture the cultural heritage of Assam by capturing the festival’s traditions, music, and dance starting January 6.

Assam, known as a microcosm of diverse cultures, is home to numerous tribes such as Bodo, Kachari, Karbi, Miri, Mishing, Rabha, Deuri, and Tiwa. Despite their unique traditions, Magh Bihu serves as a unifying force, bringing these communities together, and creating a vibrant and united picture of Assam’s rich cultural tapestry.

News18 Assam-North East will broadcast over 30 hours of engaging programming daily from 6th to 16th January, 7:50 PM to 11:00 PM. The special lineup includes exclusive coverage and shows from 11 different towns across Assam, providing viewers with a front-row seat to the diverse traditions, local cuisine, enchanting musical performances, and cultural events that characterize each region’s distinct identity.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Magh Bihu! Tune in to News18 Assam-North East from 6th to 16th January, and experience the magic of Assam’s traditions, one town at a time.

India’s digital landscape is rapidly evolving, and cybersecurity is at the forefront of this transformation. In 2024, several cybersecurity brands are gaining traction, addressing the unique challenges faced by businesses and individuals. Here are five trending cybersecurity brands making waves in India:

An analysis conducted by PHD Research Bureau, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in a report on “New Year Economics PHDCCI Economic Outlook 2024” projects that India will be the most resilient economy among the top 10 leading economies in 2024 and 2025.

The analysis is based on lead macroeconomic indicators including the GDP Growth, Export Growth, Gross National Savings, Total Investments and Debt of GDP Ratio.

India is poised to attain the status of a “developed economy” by 2047 with the dynamic initiative of “Viksit Bharat.” With a consistent GDP growth rate exceeding 7% over the past two years and a projected continuation of this trend in the current year too, the economy is expected to surpass USD 4 trillion in 2024 and thereafter moving to next orbit in 2025, said Shri Sanjeev Agrawal, President, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in a press statement issued here today.

India is making significant strides for its futuristic growth trajectory, the GDP in the current financial year is expected to expand at 7.4-7.5%, said Mr. Agrawal

The NSO estimates the growth in real GDP during 2023-24 at 7.3% in its advanced estimates released on 5th January 2024.

Despite the global headwinds, India’s economy remains resilient. Geopolitical conflicts are reshaping the World, disrupting global value chains, and causing inflationary pressures. However, India’s geopolitical significance is growing significantly, earning praise from international institutions, said Shri Sanjeev Agrawal.

The analysis has been conducted for four sets of time periods, Pre Pandemic Years (2018, 2019), Pandemic Years (2020, 2021), Post Pandemic Years (2022,2023) and Futuristic Outlook Years (2024,2025). Ranking of the lead economic indicators has been observed in these four periods, said the Industry body PHDCCI.

India is ranked 2nd in the Pre Pandemic Years (2018, 2019) and the Pandemic Years (2020, 2021), and 1st in the Post Pandemic Years (2022,2023)and Futuristic Outlook Years (2024,2025), among the top 10 economies.

According to experts, markets are expected to remain resilient and are expected to make new highs in 2024. The Nifty 50 index and SENSEX are likely to significantly surpass 25000 and 75000, respectively in 2024, benefiting from the continued reforms process by the government for the various growth promising sectors of the Indian economy, said the Industry body PHDCCI.

India’s economic journey reflects a nation overcoming challenges, implementing strategic reforms, and showcasing resilience across diverse sectors. The convergence of geopolitical stability, economic resilience, sectoral growth, and technological advancements paints a promising picture of India’s role in the ever-evolving global economic landscape, said Dr Ranjeet Mehta, Executive Director, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

India’s economy has displayed remarkable resilience, rebounding from unprecedented challenges, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the global headwinds. High GDP growth projections from the IMF and other reputed organisations indicate strong growth, with India outpacing other leading economies, said Dr S P Sharma, Chief Economist and Deputy Secretary General, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The inflation trajectory is expected to be around 4.5% (average) in 2024. The Reserve Bank of India is expected to cut the Repo Rate by 100 basis points to bring the level of repo rate at 5.5% by the end 2024, said the Industry body PHDCCI.

The Industry body has identified growth promising sectors including Agriculture and food processing, Infrastructure, Textile and Apparels, Pharmaceutical, Defence Manufacturing, Electronics and Fintech.

The downside risk to India’s economy would be the deepening geopolitical developments, fragmentation in the commodity markets and inflationary pressures, said the Industry body PHDCCI.

New Delhi, January 10, 2024: In an event held at Le Meridien Hotel, Delhi, on January 10, 2024, Ozone launched its Molecule initiative with a vision to become world’s foremost pain management company marking milestone underscoring the company’s dedication to eradicating pain.

Ambitious Vision for a Pain-Free World

Mr. Saurav Banerjee, Group Director of Ozone Pharmaceuticals, expressed the company’s mission, emphasizing the commitment to “Adding years to life and life to years.” He highlighted the visionary leadership of Mr. S C Sehgal, recognized as “The Father of Qualinomics,” for providing quality medicine economically to over a million patients in India and abroad.

Industry Recognition and Revolutionizing Healthcare

Dr. Nivedita Murkute, Senior Director of the Life Sciences Sector Skill Development Council, commended Ozone’s unconventional approach to pain management, aligning with the evolving needs of the industry. ‘Ozone – The Junoon of Ozone in Pain Management’ was hailed as a significant step towards revolutionizing healthcare.

Distinctiveness and Growth

Proud of its success with DFO (Different From Others), Ozone embraces its distinctiveness, rapidly emerging as one of the industry’s fastest-growing companies. The company’s vision of becoming the No.1 pain management company globally was underscored at the event.

Symbolic Bumblebee Insignia and Multi-dimensional Approach

Inspired by the Bumblebee’s spirit of breaking conventions, Ozone aims to defy expectations in its journey to become the leading pain management company worldwide. Mr. S C Sehgal, CMD of OZONE Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to multi-dimensional growth beyond its present business. Initiatives under Qualinomics, focusing on cancer management and prevention, were highlighted.

Introduction of “Molecule” Division

A noteworthy addition to Ozone’s initiatives is the introduction of the “Molecule” division, adopting the Bumblebee insignia. This division signifies a significant step towards fulfilling the company’s vision of reducing pain globally and making the world a better place to live.

Patient Testimony

Ajay Rastogi, a beneficiary of Ozone’s pain management solutions, expressed gratitude, stating, “Ozone has truly made a positive impact on my life. Their commitment to eradicating pain is commendable, and I am a living testament to the effectiveness of their products.”

India, January 10, 2024: The rugged terrain in north-east India presents many challenges for truckers but is also filled with economic opportunities. Entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds are venturing into the industry to serve the growing needs of e-commerce and logistics industry, gradually paving the way for robust transportation networks. One such trailblazer is Amarnath Banik, a 38-year-old entrepreneur from Guwahati. His journey with Amazon’s trucking partner program has not only transformed his family’s trucking business but has also helped his company earn a stellar reputation for navigating the unique geographical and infrastructural challenges of the region, making them an ideal partner.

Amarnath’s entrepreneurial journey began at an early age, kindled by the environment of his family’s successful trucking business established in 1984. In 2006, he joined his father’s business, and by 2015, he had established strong collaborations with several e-commerce companies, recognizing the potential of serving the growing online retail sector. The turning point came in 2019, when Amarnath learned about Amazon’s trucking partner program. To expand his business, he partnered with Amazon, initiating operations with a modest fleet of 50 trucks and 60 drivers. Over the years, the business expanded into an impressive fleet exceeding 200 trucks and boasting a dedicated team of over 250 drivers. Operating in three established routes, his logistics network spans the entirety of the Northeast region, encompassing 13 cities such as Guwahati, Tinsukia, Shillong, and Kohima, among others. This partnership also reaffirms Amazon’s commitment to supporting local businesses by addressing logistical challenges and providing a robust platform for SMEs to thrive in their business.

Abhinav Singh, Vice President, Operations, Amazon India, says, “Amarnath’s remarkable journey as an Amazon trucking partner is an excellent example of the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels our nation’s progress. He has transformed not only his family business, but also the logistics landscape for the region and has enabled Amazon in delivering its promise of seamless deliveries to customers in many parts of north east India.”

Reflecting on his transformative partnership with Amazon, Amarnath Banik, Director, Amarnath Paribahan shares, “Being a part of Amazon’s trucking program has not only boosted my business but also provided me with unparalleled opportunities. Their support has allowed me to grow my business quickly while also improving our skills and knowledge. Amazon has provided me a versatile range of technology-driven products and value-added services (VAS). Leveraging VAS has empowered the growth of my business by facilitating convenient access to finance at reduced interest rates. This initiative has created opportunities that has significantly contributed to the expansion of my business.

Navigating through the northeast region presents several challenges, including landslides and heavy monsoon rains. These difficulties become particularly pronounced during peak seasons or events like Prime Day and the Great India Festival, when there is a surge in order demand. However, Amazon’s trucking partners overcome the daily challenges with local ties, skilled drivers, and a strong contingency plan. Amarnath ensures driver safety with backup routes, regular health check-ups, and comprehensive accident insurance, showcasing its unwavering commitment to drivers’ safety. He possesses a deep understanding of Amazon’s array of technologies. For instance, he utilizes the Relay app (Relay for carrier and Relay for driver). Relay for Carrier gives visibility on all his trips and performance in real time. Relay for Drivers streamlines check-in, checkout, and real-time communication during contingencies, ensuring immediate support. Amarnath’s strength extends beyond his professional success and lies within his family. His wife efficiently handles the company’s finances, adding to their shared entrepreneurial journey. Backed by Amazon, Amarnath pioneers into new territories, embodying determination, collaboration, and technology’s boundless possibilities in entrepreneurship.

New Delhi,10th January 2024 – Renault India is delighted to announce a significant advancement in its commitment to the Indian market, under Renaulution India 2024. Under this strategic initiative, the French carmaker plans to launch five products in the next three years. This is in addition to the €3 billion investment that Renault Brand recently announced for the four key international hubs outside Europe, which includes India.

The five product launches include entirely new models and the next generation of Kiger and Triber. Upholding its commitment to the ‘Make in India’ vision, Renault India maintains a strong local presence, supported by its Chennai production plant, Logistics and technology center, and Design studio. Renault continues to strengthen its commitment to local manufacturing and innovation.

Mr. Venkatram Mamillapalle, Country CEO & Managing Director, of Renault India Operations said- “Over the next three years, we are set to embark on an exhilarating journey with five product launches, encompassing both entirely new models and the next generation from our current product range. This significant stride forward is not only a testament to our commitment but also marks the introduction of the all-new Renault brand identity to the Indian market. Our primary goal is to deliver exceptional value, create delightful experiences, and evoke a renewed sense of pride among Renault owners.”

To mark the beginning of the Renaultution in India, the French carmaker is making strong additions to its existing product portfolio, with the introduction of the new 2024 range. The new range is equipped with more than 10 new class-leading features, between the three models. To cater to diverse and growing customer needs and ensure a wider segment coverage, 5 new variants have been introduced, including India’s most affordable automatic car with Easy-R AMT technology. Overall, each variant has been specifically positioned in terms of content and price, making the full range more accessible and attractive to our customers.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS: RENAULT KWID 2024

The new 2024 Kwid range enhances the design quotient with the introduction of three new dual-tone exterior body colours on the Kwid Climber, making it a total of five and hence, the most extensive dual-tone range offered in A-Segment. Enhancements in customer comfort include an 8-inch touchscreen Media NAV system on the RXL(O) variant, making it the most affordable hatchback with touchscreen media in the industry. Further, to cater to a growing automatic buyer in the market, the 2024 Kwid range introduces the RXL(O) Easy-R AMT variant positioning it as the most affordable automatic car available in the Indian market. Further enhancing safety, all variants now feature a rear seatbelt reminder. With more than 14 safety features as standard, Kwid comes with best-in-class safety. Additionally, the full range has been positioned to offer more value in terms of price & content on each variant making it more affordable and appealing to customers.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS: RENAULT TRIBER 2024

The new 2024 Triber range gets a boost in comfort with the addition of convenience-enhancing features like a driver seat armrest and powerful outside rear-view mirrors (ORVM). On board technological advancements include 7-inch TFT instrument cluster and wireless charger, catering to the modern driver’s needs. Triber’s design quotient is further enhanced with the addition of a new Stealth Black body color. Adding to the comfort across different variants, the RXT variant now comes with a rearview camera and a rear wiper. The RXL variant takes it a step further with rear AC with dedicated AC control & vents for the 2nd and 3rd rows & LED cabin lamps added across all variants. Additionally, to keep the in-cabin air clean, a PM2.5 air filter is introduced. Further enhancing safety, all variants now feature a rear seatbelt reminder. With more than 15 safety features as standard & has been awarded 4 4-star G-NCAP rating in adult protection. Overall, the Triber 2024 range has been positioned to offer strong value with each variant to our customers & offer customers India’s most affordable automatic 7-seater available in the market.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS: RENAULT KIGER 2024

The new 2024 Kiger range gives a more premium experience & enhanced comfort to customers. The new luxurious semi-leatherette seats and leatherette steering wheel offer a premium experience. Technological advancements include a welcome-goodbye sequence with auto fold outside rear-view mirrors (ORVM) and a bezel-less auto-dim inside rear-view mirror (IRVM). The Sportiness of Kiger gets further enhanced with the red brake caliper on the TURBO engine. Catering to evolving demands, the 2024 range comes with more equipped content like auto AC, powerful ORVM introduced from the RXT(O) variant, cruise control on the RXZ ENERGY variant & LED cabin lamps on all variants. For added safety, all variants now feature a rear seatbelt reminder. With this Kiger maintains safety at its core with more than 15 safety features. Further, the lineup gets a new RXL variant with Energy Manual & EASY-R AMT powertrains and the RXT(O) variant with the Turbo Manual & X-Tronic CVT powertrain, expanding our range to cater to a broader market segment. Overall, the Kiger 2024 range has been positioned to offer strong value with each variant to our customers.

To provide peace of mind to the car buyers, Renault India is offering 2 2-year standard warranty and 7 7-year extended warranty across its new 2024 range.

NEW 2024 RANGE PRICING

PRODUCT SPEC SHEET FOR KIGER, TRIBER and KWID

Renaultution India 2024 also marks the evolution of the brand and includes a number of customer centric initiatives, as follows: –

New Brand Evolution

New Brand Identity: In sync with the Renault group’s global direction and reinforcing the commitment for the Indian market, the new brand identity will be adopted within the network in 2024 and the adoption can be seen across all products starting in 2025.

New Customer Strategy: DISHA: Renault embraces “Customer Centricity” as the DNA of its brand, introducing the DISHA customer experience strategy. Aimed at driving delightful experiences, DISHA embodies a 360-degree evolution across all customer touchpoints and channels, creating “Moments of Truth” powered by strong digital innovations.

LeClub highlights: The Renault Owner’s Community, LeClub, boasts a thriving community of 9 Lac+ customers in India. Renault offers amongst the best loyalty and referral programs, which are getting further strengthened with the launch of the Renault LeClub program.

Closer to Customers: Renault’s commitment to innovation and customer-centricity is exemplified through the use of state of the art Showroom on Wheels, which brings the showroom experience directly to customers’ doorsteps, offering on-spot test drives, bookings, and car finance options.

Launches RENEW in India

Renault India unveils “renew,” an upgraded and global Used Car Program with refurbished and certified vehicles. Launching nationwide, it offers a seamless trade-in experience. Customer-centric services like zero down payment for exchanging existing vehicles, attractive finance options, and a seamless digital experience will be on offer. renew will be a standalone brand offering certified used cars sales and purchases, to both Renault and non-renault models. With a focus on quality and transparency, “renew” targets first-time car buyers, reinforcing Renault’s commitment to customer satisfaction in both new and pre-owned markets.

10th January 2024: Ather Energy, India’s leading electric scooter manufacturer, today launched the 450 Apex, a special edition scooter that commemorates 10 years of Ather. The 450 Apex is the pinnacle of performance, and it pushes the envelope on design across all scooters in the country. Along with an exciting new colour scheme and a host of new features on the 450 Apex, Ather has introduced ‘Magic Twist’, a first-of-its-kind city riding feature that offers outstanding convenience to the rider.

Tarun Mehta, Co-Founder & CEO, of Ather Energy, said, “We wanted to do something special to mark 10 years of Ather and push the boundaries of design, performance, and innovation. The 450 Apex is the culmination of that effort, where we have pushed the 450 platform to its limit in terms of design and performance. The 450 Apex has India’s fastest throttle response, and it is Ather’s most exciting scooter in production today. The unique design language, rich satin colours, and transparent panel make the 450 Apex the most distinctive electric scooter on the road. With the 450 Apex, we have introduced ‘Magic Twist’, a disruptive new feature that makes city riding extremely convenient and fun. The 450 Apex is a premium and highly desirable machine and we expect it to be appreciated by performance scooter enthusiasts across the country.”

Elevating the performance with the 450 Apex, Ather has introduced a new riding mode, Warp+, that takes the scooter from 0 to 40 km/h in just 2.9 seconds. It also boasts an industry-leading reaction time of just 90 ms, making it the scooter with the fastest throttle response time, not just amongst ICE scooters but also amongst EVs as well. The 450 Apex delivers peak torque of 210 Nm at the wheel, nearly 25% higher than its closest competitor and the average 200cc ICE two-wheeler, which is also the best in the scooter industry. With Warp+, Ather has increased the power levels of the 450 Apex by 10% so that the peak torque is sustained at higher speeds. This has resulted in a 30% faster 40–80 km/h speed compared to the 450X. With the increased motor power, the 450 Apex now has a top speed of 100 km/h. Ather has also provided a new UI experience on the 450 Apex. Based on the power input, the animation transitions to provide an immersive ride experience, making it a perfect partner for Warp+.

Apart from pushing the limits of design and innovation, Ather has introduced Magic Twist, a first-of-its-kind feature in the world of two-wheelers that will transform city riding by offering outstanding convenience to the rider. The Magic Twist is an evolution of conventional regenerative braking offered for the first time with the 450 Apex that is actually able to bring the scooter to a complete halt and works even at 100% battery charge. A conventional 2W regenerative braking system is only able to slow down the vehicle and kicks in only at around 85% battery charge or below and it is unable to bring the vehicle to a complete halt. With the Magic Twist, users can brake with negative input on the throttle and it has 40% more braking force than any other 2W regen available in India. This is highly intuitive, innovative, and fun and is extremely practical in city riding conditions. Magic Twist ensures commuting in the city and navigating traffic a much smoother experience while enhancing control, marking a significant leap in the scooter riding experience virtually eliminating the need of frequently using levers to brake. Users just need to throttle up to accelerate and throttle down to brake; it’s as easy as it sounds. Magic Twist also comes with a re-engineered throttle that allows for deep control over braking. Twist less to slow down, and twist more to brake! Magic Twist also improves the scooter’s range by up to 7% to 157 km (IDC range).

Clean, minimal design has been at the core of Ather’s design philosophy. Ather has taken this philosophy to the next level with the 450 Apex. To showcase the scooter’s clean design on the inside to the outside world, the Ather 450 Apex sports a transparent panel over a painted orange chassis, a testimony to Ather’s clean engineering design. This makes the 450 Apex India’s only scooter with a transparent panel. Complementing this unique design is the bold colour scheme that puts two very contrasting colours in the spectrum together: blue and orange. The ‘Indium Blue’ used in the 450 Apex is the latest shade of blue to be discovered in the world. It is considered the mattest blue out there, with a rich satin feel offset against a bold orange, giving a combination never seen before.

Taking a step forward to make the 450 Apex even more special, Ather has announced a Delight Kit for customers taking delivery of the 450 Apex. The Delight kit includes a handcrafted helmet in a blue-orange colour scheme complementing the scooter, an inbuilt Ather TPMS, a neck gaiter, an iron-on garment patch, and a uniquely designed keychain. The 450 Apex also comes with a 5-year or 60,000-kilometre battery warranty and complimentary Ather Connect for 3 years. Bookings are now open for the Ather 450 Apex, and deliveries will commence in March 2024. Priced at INR 1.89 lakh (ex-showroom and not inclusive of subsidy), the 450 Apex promises a design that’s bold and will take the rider to the pinnacle of performance.