Matter Aera vs Revolt RV400
The electric motorcycle segment in India is witnessing unprecedented growth, with homegrown manufacturers developing increasingly sophisticated machines that challenge traditional combustion motorcycles. Two compelling Indian contenders representing this revolution are the Matter Aera and the Revolt RV400—motorcycles showcasing how different approaches to electric mobility compete for enthusiast attention. This comprehensive comparison explores how innovative engineering battles proven electric performance across the crucial dimensions of range and pricing, helping buyers navigate India’s evolving electric motorcycle landscape.
Table of Contents
Brand Background: Startup Innovation vs Established EV Pioneer
Matter Energy (Aera): The Tech Startup
Matter Energy represents India’s startup ecosystem entering electric mobility—founded by former Ather Energy executives who understood electric vehicle technology deeply. The company launched with significant backing, ambitious technology claims, and the Aera motorcycle promising to deliver performance, range, and features rivaling or exceeding established competitors.
The Aera embodies startup innovation philosophy—leveraging modern technology, fresh thinking, and aggressive specifications to disrupt established players. Matter designed the Aera for tech-savvy riders who want cutting-edge features, strong performance, and distinctive styling without paying premium pricing.
Matter targets progressive buyers—young professionals, early adopters, and environmentally conscious riders who appreciate innovative brands willing to challenge conventions. The company emphasizes technology, connectivity, and pushing boundaries of what electric motorcycles can deliver.
Revolt Motors: The Indian EV Pioneer
Revolt Motors, founded in 2019, established itself as one of India’s first electric motorcycle manufacturers focusing on performance rather than basic commuter functionality. The RV400, launched in 2019, became India’s first AI-enabled electric motorcycle, introducing features like sound simulation, smartphone connectivity, and genuine performance credentials.
The RV400 embodies Revolt’s philosophy of making electric motorcycles aspirational rather than compromise purchases. It’s designed to prove electric can be exciting, engaging, and desirable—motorcycles riders want rather than merely tolerate for environmental or economic reasons.
Revolt targets practical enthusiasts—riders who want electric benefits (lower costs, zero emissions) without sacrificing performance, style, or features. The company emphasizes proven technology, established service networks, and track record demonstrating reliability through thousands of units sold.
Design and Styling: Contemporary Aggression vs Distinctive Character
Matter Aera Design Language
The Aera showcases modern, tech-forward design emphasizing its advanced engineering:
Exterior Styling
- Sharp, angular bodywork with geometric patterns creating contemporary appearance
- LED headlamp with distinctive signature creating unique face
- Minimalist body panels reducing visual clutter
- Exposed frame elements showcasing structural design
- Sporty seat profile suggesting performance intent
- Modern alloy wheels with multi-spoke design
- Clean lines emphasizing electric architecture advantages
- Premium paint finishes with attention to quality
- Compact dimensions (approximately 2,050mm length) balancing agility and presence
- Distinctive color schemes targeting younger demographics
The Aera looks contemporary and purposeful—clearly modern without mimicking combustion motorcycles. The design emphasizes technical sophistication and forward-thinking aesthetics appealing to tech-conscious buyers.
Build Quality
Build quality appears promising based on pre-production examples, though being a new manufacturer, real-world ownership experiences will ultimately prove durability and consistency. Early assessments suggest decent assembly quality with attention to finish details.
Ergonomics
The riding position balances sport and comfort:
- Upright handlebars providing comfortable positioning
- Mid-set footpegs suitable for varied riding
- Well-padded seat with good support
- Accessible seat height accommodating varied rider sizes
- Comfortable enough for extended urban riding
Revolt RV400 Design Philosophy
The RV400 adopts distinctive, recognizable styling that created strong identity:
Exterior Styling
- Unique front fascia with LED headlamp creating memorable face
- Muscular tank-like structure (battery housing) suggesting power
- Flowing body panels creating cohesive appearance
- Sporty proportions with forward-leaning stance
- Distinctive tail section with integrated LED lighting
- Alloy wheels with sporty design
- Multiple color options including eye-catching schemes
- Recognizable silhouette making RV400 instantly identifiable
- Compact dimensions (2,020mm length) facilitating urban maneuverability
The RV400 looks distinctive and purposeful—design that doesn’t try hiding its electric nature but celebrates it through unique styling. The appearance is polarizing—some find it attractive and characterful; others consider it unconventional.
Build Quality
Build quality has improved through multiple iterations since 2019 launch. Early models experienced some quality issues; later production units show better consistency. Overall construction is solid though not matching premium Japanese standards. Quality is adequate for the price point with typical attention to Indian market durability requirements.
Ergonomics
The riding position prioritizes comfort:
- Upright handlebars creating relaxed posture
- Mid-positioned footpegs
- Comfortable seat with adequate padding
- Accessible seat height (814mm) suitable for most riders
- Good for daily commuting and extended urban rides
Design Verdict
The Matter Aera wins for:
- More contemporary, modern styling
- Cleaner, more sophisticated design language
- Better perceived quality in finishes
- More premium appearance
The Revolt RV400 wins for:
- More distinctive, memorable design
- Proven real-world durability (4+ years in market)
- Recognizable brand identity
- Character and personality in styling
Conclusion: The Aera looks more modern and sophisticated; the RV400 offers proven distinctive character. Choose based on aesthetic preferences and trust in new (Aera) versus established (RV400) designs.
Performance: Power Specifications Showdown
Matter Aera Performance Specifications
Electric Powertrain
- Hub-mounted BLDC motor (rear wheel)
- Peak power: 6 kW (8 HP) / 10.5 kW (14 HP) claimed (specifications vary by variant/marketing)
- Continuous power: Lower than peak rating
- Torque: 25-30 Nm (claimed)
- Single-speed direct drive
- Weight: Approximately 140-150 kg (depending on battery configuration)
Performance Characteristics
Acceleration: The Aera promises brisk acceleration leveraging instant electric torque. Claimed 0-60 km/h times suggest approximately 6-7 seconds—genuinely quick for urban riding. However, real-world performance verification awaits widespread customer deliveries.
Top Speed: Claimed top speed of 100-105 km/h—adequate for Indian highway riding and occasional high-speed runs. This positions the Aera as genuine highway-capable electric motorcycle rather than city-limited commuter.
Power Delivery: Electric motors provide characteristic instant torque from zero RPM—smooth, linear, and predictable acceleration without gear changes or clutch management. The riding experience emphasizes effortless power delivery.
Riding Modes: Multiple riding modes optimize performance versus efficiency:
- Eco mode: Maximum range, conservative power
- City mode: Balanced performance for urban riding
- Sport mode: Maximum performance and throttle response
Regenerative Braking: Adjustable regenerative braking recovers energy during deceleration, extending range while providing engine-braking-like deceleration feel.
Revolt RV400 Performance Specifications
Electric Powertrain
- Mid-mounted motor (chain drive to rear wheel)
- Peak power: 3.5 kW (4.7 HP)
- Continuous power: 3 kW
- Torque: 170 Nm at wheel (claimed)—high figure due to gear reduction
- Single-speed with gear reduction
- Weight: 108 kg (without battery), approximately 132 kg (with battery)
Performance Characteristics
Acceleration: The RV400 delivers adequate acceleration for urban and suburban riding. Real-world 0-60 km/h times approximate 7-9 seconds—brisk enough for daily use though not particularly exciting. The gear reduction multiplies motor torque significantly, creating strong low-speed pull.
Top Speed: The RV400 achieves approximately 85-90 km/h top speed—adequate for city riding and acceptable for limited highway use, though feeling strained at sustained high speeds. This limits highway touring capability compared to higher-powered competitors.
Power Delivery: The power delivery is smooth and predictable with instant torque availability. The mid-mounted motor with chain drive (rather than hub motor) provides more natural motorcycle-like feel with better weight distribution.
Riding Modes: Three riding modes adjust performance:
- Eco mode: Maximum efficiency, 35 km/h speed limit
- City mode: Balanced performance, 65 km/h limit
- Sport mode: Full performance, 85+ km/h capability
Unique Feature—Sound Simulation: The RV400’s “MyRevolt” app allows selecting from multiple artificial engine sounds played through speakers, creating audio feedback simulating combustion motorcycles. This feature divides opinion—some appreciate the engagement; others find it gimmicky.
Regenerative Braking: Three levels of regenerative braking allow customization from minimal to aggressive energy recovery.
Performance Verdict
The Matter Aera (claimed specs) wins on:
- Higher peak power (10.5 kW vs. 3.5 kW claimed)
- Higher top speed (100+ km/h vs. 85-90 km/h)
- Better highway capability
- More powerful performance on paper
Important Caveat: The Aera’s specifications are claimed but not yet widely verified through independent testing or extensive customer ownership. Real-world performance may differ from marketing claims.
The Revolt RV400 wins on:
- Proven real-world performance (4+ years, thousands of units)
- Better weight distribution (mid-motor vs. hub motor)
- More motorcycle-like dynamics from chain drive
- Verified, consistent performance across production units
- Lighter overall weight (132 kg vs. 140-150 kg)
Conclusion: Based on claimed specifications, the Aera promises superior performance. However, the RV400 offers proven, verified performance with established track record. Buyers must weigh impressive claims against demonstrated reality.
Range: The Critical EV Specification
Range determines electric motorcycle practicality more than any other specification—inadequate range creates constant anxiety; sufficient range enables freedom.
Matter Aera Range Specifications
Battery Configuration
- Lithium-ion battery pack
- Battery capacity: 5 kWh (single battery) or 10 kWh (dual battery configuration)
- Removable battery design allowing home charging
- Battery weight: Approximately 10-12 kg per unit
Claimed Range
- 5 kWh (single battery): 125 km (claimed, ideal conditions)
- 10 kWh (dual battery): 150+ km (claimed, ideal conditions)
Real-World Range Estimates
Based on typical electric motorcycle efficiency patterns:
- City riding (single battery): 80-100 km
- Highway riding (single battery): 60-80 km
- Mixed riding (single battery): 75-95 km
- City riding (dual battery): 100-125 km
- Highway riding (dual battery): 85-105 km
Charging Specifications
- Home charging: 4-5 hours (standard 15A socket, single battery)
- Fast charging: Capability claimed but infrastructure limited
- Swappable battery design (dual battery config) allows charging one while riding on second
Range Adequacy
The Aera’s range (especially dual battery) provides genuine practical usability:
- Single battery adequate for 30-40 km daily commutes (2-3 days between charges)
- Dual battery suitable for 50-60 km daily riding or occasional longer trips
- Highway range remains limiting factor for extended travel
Revolt RV400 Range Specifications
Battery Configuration
- Lithium-ion battery pack
- Battery capacity: 3.24 kWh
- Removable battery design (approximately 25 kg weight)
- Single battery configuration only
Claimed Range
- Eco mode: 150 km (claimed, highly optimistic)
- City mode: 100-120 km (claimed)
- Sport mode: 80-100 km (claimed)
Real-World Range
Based on extensive customer feedback and reviews:
- Eco mode (35 km/h limit): 100-120 km (achievable but impractical speed)
- City mode (normal riding): 70-90 km
- Sport mode (aggressive riding): 60-75 km
- Highway riding: 50-65 km
- Mixed realistic riding: 70-85 km
Charging Specifications
- Home charging: 4-4.5 hours (standard socket)
- Fast charging: Not available
- Battery swapping: Available through Revolt Swap Stations (limited locations)
- Portable charger allows charging anywhere with power socket
Range Adequacy
The RV400’s range is adequate for typical urban commuting:
- Sufficient for 25-35 km daily commutes (2-3 days between charges)
- Marginal for 50+ km daily riding (daily charging required)
- Limited for highway or extended rides beyond city limits
Range Verdict
The Matter Aera (dual battery) wins on:
- Greater battery capacity (10 kWh vs. 3.24 kWh)
- Superior claimed range (150 km vs. 100-120 km)
- Better highway range potential
- Dual battery flexibility (charge one, ride on other)
- More practical for varied riding needs
The Revolt RV400 counters with:
- Proven real-world range data from thousands of users
- More realistic range claims (conservative marketing)
- Established battery swap infrastructure (limited locations)
- Lighter, more manageable battery for removal and charging
- Four years of battery durability data demonstrating longevity
Important Consideration: The Aera’s dual battery configuration significantly increases both cost and weight. Single battery Aera (5 kWh) offers comparable range to RV400 with similar limitations.
Conclusion: The Aera (dual battery) offers superior range on paper; the RV400 provides proven, verified real-world range. Single battery Aera and RV400 offer comparable practical range with similar urban commuter limitations.
Features and Technology: Innovation vs Proven Tech
Matter Aera Features
Instrumentation:
- 7-inch TFT touchscreen display
- Comprehensive ride information
- Navigation integration
- Customizable interface
- Smartphone connectivity
Connectivity:
- Matter app with comprehensive features
- OTA (over-the-air) software updates
- Remote vehicle monitoring
- Ride statistics and analytics
- Geo-fencing and theft alerts
- GPS tracking
Convenience:
- Keyless ignition
- Reverse mode for parking assistance
- USB charging port
- LED lighting throughout
- Spacious underseat storage
Safety:
- Disc brakes front and rear
- Combined Braking System (CBS) or ABS (variant dependent)
- Motor controller safety features
- Battery management system
Revolt RV400 Features
Instrumentation:
- Digital LCD instrument cluster
- Speedometer, battery level, range
- Ride mode display
- Trip computer
Connectivity:
- MyRevolt app with AI features
- Smartphone connectivity
- Ride statistics
- Sound customization (select engine sounds)
- GPS tracking and geo-fencing
- Remote immobilization
- OTA updates (limited)
Convenience:
- Artificial engine sound (unique feature)
- Reverse mode
- USB charging
- LED lighting
- Underseat storage
Safety:
- Disc brakes front and rear
- CBS (Combined Braking System)
- Battery management and safety systems
Features Verdict
The Matter Aera wins on:
- Superior display (7-inch TFT touchscreen vs. LCD)
- More advanced connectivity features
- Navigation integration
- More sophisticated app ecosystem
- Better OTA update capability
- More modern interface
The Revolt RV400 wins on:
- Proven, reliable feature operation (4-year track record)
- Unique sound simulation (polarizing but distinctive)
- Simpler, less failure-prone systems
- Established app functionality with user feedback refinement
Conclusion: The Aera offers more advanced, modern technology; the RV400 provides proven, reliable features with established functionality.
Pricing and Value: The Critical Decision
Matter Aera Pricing
Ex-showroom Pricing (Approximate, may vary)
- Single Battery (5 kWh): ₹1.44-1.50 lakhs (introductory pricing, estimated)
- Dual Battery (10 kWh): ₹1.70-1.80 lakhs (estimated)
Effective Pricing (With State Subsidies): Pricing varies dramatically based on state EV incentives:
- States with strong incentives: ₹1.20-1.40 lakhs (single battery)
- States with moderate incentives: ₹1.35-1.50 lakhs
- States with minimal incentives: Near ex-showroom pricing
Note: Matter pricing and configurations may vary as production ramps up and market positioning evolves.
Revolt RV400 Pricing
Ex-showroom Pricing
- RV400 Standard: ₹1.38 lakhs (approximate, varies by location)
- RV400 Premium: ₹1.46 lakhs (approximate)
Effective Pricing (With State Subsidies):
- Strong incentive states: ₹1.10-1.25 lakhs
- Moderate incentive states: ₹1.25-1.35 lakhs
- Minimal incentive states: ₹1.35-1.45 lakhs
Subscription Plans: Revolt pioneered subscription models for electric motorcycles:
- My Revolt Plan: Monthly payments including battery maintenance, service, insurance
- Lower upfront cost with ongoing monthly commitments
- Varies by city and plan selection
Ownership Cost Analysis (5 Years, 15,000 km/year)
Matter Aera (Single Battery, estimated):
- Purchase: ₹1.35 lakhs (post-subsidy average)
- Electricity (75,000 km @ ₹0.35/km): ₹26,250
- Maintenance: ₹12,000-15,000
- Insurance: ₹20,000-25,000
- Battery replacement (potential): ₹30,000-40,000 (year 4-5, uncertainty)
- Total: ₹1.93-2.15 lakhs
Revolt RV400:
- Purchase: ₹1.25 lakhs (post-subsidy average)
- Electricity (75,000 km @ ₹0.40/km): ₹30,000
- Maintenance: ₹15,000-18,000
- Insurance: ₹22,000-26,000
- Battery replacement (established cost): ₹35,000-45,000 (year 4-5)
- Total: ₹1.92-2.14 lakhs
Both motorcycles offer comparable total ownership costs with electricity savings dramatically reducing expenses versus combustion motorcycles.
Value Verdict
The Revolt RV400 offers:
- Lower entry price (established pricing)
- Proven reliability reducing unexpected costs
- Established service network (35+ cities)
- Known battery replacement costs and processes
- Four-year track record demonstrating durability
- Subscription options for lower upfront commitment
The Matter Aera offers:
- Competitive pricing with better specifications (claimed)
- Superior range (dual battery option)
- More advanced technology and features
- Newer, potentially more efficient systems
- Fresh design and modern appeal
Conclusion: The RV400 offers proven value with established track record; the Aera promises superior specifications at competitive pricing but lacks real-world ownership validation.
The Final Verdict
Choose the Matter Aera if:
- You want cutting-edge technology and features
- Superior display and connectivity matter
- Maximum range is priority (dual battery)
- You’re comfortable with new manufacturers
- Modern design appeals more than proven heritage
- You appreciate latest technology
- You’re willing to be early adopter
- Claimed specifications meet your needs
Choose the Revolt RV400 if:
- Proven reliability and track record matter
- You want established service network (35+ cities)
- You prefer verified real-world performance over claims
- Lower risk tolerance (established brand)
- You appreciate distinctive character
- Sound simulation feature interests you
- Subscription models appeal
- You value demonstrated durability (4+ years, thousands of units)
Final Recommendations
Best for Most Buyers: Revolt RV400 Proven performance, established reliability, and comprehensive service network make it safer choice.
Best for Early Adopters: Matter Aera Superior claimed specifications and modern technology for buyers comfortable with new brands.
Best Value: Revolt RV400 Established pricing, proven costs, and known ownership experience reduce financial uncertainty.
Best Range: Matter Aera (Dual Battery) Superior battery capacity delivers better range, though at higher cost and weight.
Best Technology: Matter Aera More advanced features, better connectivity, and modern interface.
Lowest Risk: Revolt RV400 Four years of production, thousands of satisfied owners, and established service demonstrate reliability.
Conclusion
The Matter Aera and Revolt RV400 represent different stages of India’s electric motorcycle evolution. The Aera promises next-generation technology, superior specifications, and modern features—appealing to buyers wanting cutting-edge electric performance. The RV400 delivers proven reliability, established service, and verified real-world performance—ideal for buyers prioritizing demonstrated capability over ambitious claims.
For most buyers, particularly first-time electric motorcycle owners, the RV400’s proven track record, established service network, and verified performance make it the safer, more rational choice. The Aera appeals to tech enthusiasts and early adopters willing to trust impressive specifications from new manufacturers.
Neither is universally better—they serve different buyer priorities in India’s rapidly evolving electric motorcycle landscape. Choose based on risk tolerance: proven reliability (RV400) or cutting-edge claims (Aera).