Ather 450X to receive TPMS & Smart Helmet accessories in 2021

Ather Energy has confirmed two accessories for the Ather 450X – the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and a Smart Helmet. It was expected that the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) would come in late 2020 and the smart helmet option in early 2021. These features are designed to expand on the scooter’s connected tech features and build a lead over rivals in tech-savviness.

ElectricVehicleWeb.in now understands that Ather plans to launch accessories for the 450X in 2021. The company’s immediate focus, following the throes of the COVID-19 shutdown, is the start of Ather 450X deliveries and the expansion of its sales outlets.

A tyre pressure monitor gives vital information like current tyre pressure, the loss of pressure, fast leakage or an increase in temperature. Most of them are offered as plug & play kits which replace the original valve caps. These systems are wireless and pair seamlessly to the digital display that clip on to the handlebar to transmit the pressure data. In the case of the Ather 450X, the onboard 7-inch TFT LCD panel could receive and display values and maintaining the ideal pressure will have a positive bearing on the travel range, tyre life and the safety of the rider.

Smart helmets could be another useful accessory in the aspect of safety and convenience. We already get Bluetooth communication devices today that can be fitted to motorcycle helmets. These are paired with the phone and transmits the sound information directly from smartphone device to the helmet. The smart helmet could potentially feature speakers and microphone which can be paired to the touchscreen system on the Ather scooter.

With onboard connectivity features like 4G LTE Cat-4 support / WCDMA / EDGE and support for Bluetooth 4.2 and 5.0, information on the screen can be relayed to the helmet via audio. If the system supports voice commands, the user could use the microphone in the helmet to perform certain tasks. Features like Navigation guidance and calls can take advantage of this system and ensures the user fully concentrates on riding. We expect Ather to start with a basic system (take calls and listen to music hands-free) and present new features with upcoming versions as this is an area where advancements are constant with the camera, lighting, GPS, audio and smart visor display.

Ather is also looking to offer customers the option to retrofit 4G for its first generation of smart scooters which come with 3G module.