Ather Energy Announces New Manufacturing Facility in Maharashtra
Ather Energy, a leading electric two-wheeler manufacturer based in Bengaluru, is set to establish its third manufacturing facility. Despite being headquartered in Karnataka, the new plant will be located in Maharashtra, not Karnataka. This decision has sparked political reactions in Karnataka.
Founded in 2013, Ather Energy has been a key player in India’s electric vehicle market. While its design and research operations are centered in Bengaluru, the company set up its first manufacturing plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. This location has become an industrial hub, contributing significantly to Ather’s growth.
Political Reactions and Government Responses
The success of Ather’s ‘450’ electric scooters led to the establishment of a second factory in Hosur. Now, the company is preparing for a third facility, reportedly in Aurangabad, Maharashtra. This move has not been well-received by some politicians in Karnataka. Arvind Bellad, a BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition in Karnataka, expressed his disappointment on Twitter. He urged the Karnataka government to engage with Ather Energy to reconsider their decision. Bellad suggested that areas like Hubballi and Dharwad would be suitable for the new plant.
Karnataka’s Industries Minister, M P Patil, responded by highlighting that Ather had requested 50 acres of land in 2022 but did not receive it due to the previous BJP government’s actions. Patil assured that he would attempt to bring the opportunity back to Karnataka. The debate between ruling and opposition parties continues as both sides argue over the best course of action. The current Industries Minister has committed to inviting Ather Energy back to Karnataka. The final decision remains uncertain as discussions progress.
Strategic Expansion and Future Plans
Ather Energy’s strategic decision to locate its new plant in Maharashtra underscores its expansion plans beyond Karnataka. The company’s growth trajectory includes setting up multiple facilities to meet the increasing demand for electric vehicles across India. This move aims to enhance production capacity and cater to a broader market base. While political debates continue, Ather remains focused on its goal of expanding its manufacturing footprint and driving growth within the electric vehicle sector.
