The Bajaj Chetak is an innovative electric scooter launched by the leading Indian two-wheeler manufacturer Bajaj Auto. Available at an attractive starting price of Rs. 1.15 Lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi), it offers a retro design blended with modern EV capabilities.
Introduction
The iconic ‘Chetak’ nameplate returns in an all-electric avatar combining:
- Retro styling reminiscent of Bajaj’s classic 1970s scooter
- An electric powertrain for sustainable mobility
- Modern connectivity and convenience features
Available in two affordable variants with minor differences, the electric scooter targets urban commuters seeking an eco-friendly solution to their daily transportation needs.
Price, Variants and Color Options
Pricing
Here are the Chetak EV prices across its variants:
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
| Urbane – Standard | Rs. 1.15 Lakhs |
| Urbane – Premium | Rs. 1.20 Lakhs |
| (All prices ex-showroom Delhi) |
Variants Explained
The two broad variants mainly differ in paint scheme and choice of wheels:
– Chetak Urbane – Standard: This base variant features metallic colors and cast alloy wheels. It is priced at Rs. 1.15 Lakhs making it the most affordable Chetak version.
– Chetak Urbane – Premium: As the name indicates, this top-end variant offers greater visual differentiation via gloss colors and forged alloy wheels with stainless steel cladding. It carries a slight premium with a price tag of Rs. 1.20 Lakhs.
Color Palette
The Chetak EV is available in a choice of 3 colors:
- Indigo Metallic (blue)
- Matte Coarse Grey
- Lucid Red (only in Premium variant)
The Urbane Premium variant also features an exclusive gold color lining on its edges for additional distinctiveness befitting its premium positioning and pricing.
Design, Dimensions and Weight
Retro Design Inspiration
Inspired by Bajaj’s wildly popular 1970s scooter, the electric avatar combines vintage styling cues with modern EV-focused details:
- Classic front facia and flat floorboard
- Chrome styling elements across handlebar ends, rear view mirrors and flank edges
- Flared rear cowl and integrated pillion grab rail similar to original
- Faux air vents behind front apron provide a hint of aerodynamic athleticism
- Stylized alloy wheels feature stainless steel cladding (in Premium variant)
- Paint schemes integrate gold or chrome lining around borders and edges
The fusion of classic and contemporary styling helps the new Chetak strike instant recall among older generations while appealing to youth via its clean EV styling.
Dimension and Capacity
With its electric internals, the scooter carries a refined compact footprint:
- Length – 1825 mm
- Width – 705 mm
- Height – 1061 mm
- Wheelbase – 1285 mm
- Ground Clearance – 161 mm
It has generous underseat storage space of about 25 liters capable of fitting a standard half-face helmet. However taller modular helmets may need steering adjustment to slot in.
The rigid tubular frame weighs 15kg heavier than UCE frames to offset battery mass – an acceptable tradeoff for housing the EV hardware. This leads us to its overall weight.
Curb Weight
Tipping the scales at 133 kg, the Bajaj Chetak is still relatively lightweight for an electric scooter. Competitor models like Ather, Simple One and Ola S1 Pro weigh 10-30 kg more despite lower battery capacity. The lightweight frame is achieved via compact component packaging enabled by intelligent engineering.
Electric Powertrain and Range
Motor and Transmission
Power comes from a compact 4,200W IP67 rated electric motor integrated within the cast aluminum swing arm. The position allows direct drive transmission without intrusive drive shafts seen in fossil fuel scooters. Power is transmitted directly from motor to wheel optimizing efficiency.
The EV motor produces peak torque of 16 Nm available from a standstill, enabling strong initial acceleration – a boon in congested urban traffic conditions. For context, popular ICE scooters deliver 7-9 Nm torque via CVT gear transmission.
Battery Pack and Range
The lithium-ion battery pack has a net capacity of 3 kWh, lower than newer rivals. But real world range ultimately depends as much on energy management. Bajaj claims a class-leading true range of 129 km in Eco mode as certified by ARAI.
Actual customer reported range varies from a realistic 80 km for heavy usage riding to 110 km with prudent Eco mode usage. So factoring some buffer, expect a reliable 100 km urban daily commute range without range anxiety.
The waterproof battery pack is warrantied for 3 Years / 50,000 kms to assuage buyer concerns over operating life in India’s hot climate. Bajaj’s extensive dealership network facilitates access for repairs.
Charging System
The onboard charger delivers power output of up to 900W using a regular 5A home outlet. An empty to full recharge thus takes around 5 hours – on par for most electric scooters.
For faster top ups, the Chetak supports fast charging capability via CCS2 DC Fast Charging outlet. Using this, recharging the battery from 0 to 80% takes only around 60-90 minutes. So plan longer journeys factoring short charging pitstops.
Performance, Handling and Braking
Acceleration and Top Speed
The peppy motor produces smooth acceleration allowing 0-40 kmph runs in just 6.5 seconds. It maxes out at a top speed of 73 kmph – not blazing fast but adequate for urban commuting needs. The motor also recovers energy during deceleration via KERS regeneration charging the battery and maximizing driving range.
Dynamics and Control
The rigid chassis paired with elements like single-sided suspension, front disc brakes and 12 inch wheels work together delivering composed handling characteristics. Good ground clearance aids stability over broken stretches and speed breakers without scraping undercarriage.
Control levers use APS sensor for adjusting braking bite relative to hand pressure – useful during panic situations. Further assurance via Combi Brake System automatically balancing front and rear braking avoiding potential skidding. Together the elements enable predictable control navigating daily urban riding conditions.
Suspension and Braking Hardware
Suspension hardware employs traditional telescopic forks upfront with hydraulic damper and coiled spring delivering 80mm travel. The rear gets an advanced single-sided suspension with mono shock absorber offering progressive stiffness – another classic styling element.
Braking duties are well managed via 200mm front disc brake and 130mm rear drum brake. The front disc offers sharp powerful bite for hard braking while the rear drum provides adequate support – important for regulating speed in congested roads. Dual channel ABS will be offered as optional.
Features and Capabilities
Beyond just clean mobility, the Chetak offers a modern convenient experience integrating classic charm with useful technology features.
Elegant Instrument Cluster
An elegant digital-analog instrument cluster provides an aesthetic retro-modern fusion keeping riders informed:
- Central analog speedometer evokes vintage feel
- Digital display shows battery status, mode and trip data
- Scroll control to view charge level, range etc.
Intuitive Handlebar Controls
Thumb controls are easily accessible without needing to take hands off handlebar:
- Mode and Trip Set button
- Hazard indicator and electronic horn
- Headlight on/off button
- Cruise control and regenerative braking adjustment
Keyless Access Control
A key fob enables convenient keyless proximity unlock when near the scooter. Similarly tap to lock remotely when stepping away. Eliminates fumbling for keys making transit convenient.
Boost Mode
A onboard toggle switch lets riders manually trigger a power boost for quicker acceleration while overtaking – drawing more current from the battery. Useful for those occassional bursts of speed to clear city traffic.
Reverse Mode
Another nifty addition is the reverse assist which electrically rolls the vehicle backwards to ease parking exits without physical effort. No more awkward scooter pivoting or leg muscle strain!
Ride Statistics and Theft Alert
The digital display lets riders check distance travelled, trip time taken etc for better riding insights over time. It also alerts rider when movement is detected in parked scooter to deter theft attempts using sensors.
Connected Features
While not as advanced as newer rivals, the Bajaj Chetak does offer basic smartphone connectivity via an intuitive Chetak mobile app:
- Vehicle user manual accessible on the app
- Diagnostic alerts andnotifications for battery health stats
- Geo-fencing and tow away alerts for added security
- View previous riding trip logs with analytics
These connected capabilities deliver additional insights and security for owners while retaining an element of retro simplicity aligned to its classic inspiration. There is scope for adding more contemporary features via firmware updates in future iterations.
Overall the charm of classic scooter appeal fused with just the right dash of modern electric and connected capabilities make the Bajaj Chetak a joy to own over time.
Reviews and Ratings
The Chetak EV has received fairly positive reviews from both critics and owners so far:
Expert Reviews
- Autocar: Rated 4/5 praising retro design, ride quality and EV range
- zigwheels: Rated 4/5 Applauding real world range and premium appeal
Owner Reviews
- 91% buyers recommend – praise comfort, handling, range & savings
- Rated 4.2/5 overall based on 900+ owner reviews on portal
- Praised for practicality as urban runabout with cost savings
Reviewers widely appreciate the comeback of the iconic Chetak nametag in a modern EV form factor. They feel it strikes the right balance as a usable mainstream urban scooter blending a vintage design ethos infused with eco-friendly capabilities for the next generation.
Electric Scooter Competition
Price Comparison
The Chetak EV competes with electric scooters like:
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Bajaj Chetak | ₹1.15 Lakhs |
| TVS iQube | ₹1.01 Lakhs |
| Ather 450X | ₹1.32 Lakhs |
| Ola S1 Pro | ₹1.40 Lakhs |
The Chetak strikes an attractive starting price point given its brand appeal and capabilities. This positions it competitively to draw young urban buyers looking to switch to sustainable transport.
Performance and Features
Bajaj Chetak EV: Retro styled urban mobility EV with 3 kW motor, 16 Nm torque and class leading 129 km range plus segment first connectivity.
TVS iQube: Rival urban commuter by TVS offering battery fast charging and 75 km range via advanced TVS SmartXonnect platform.
Ather 450X: A high performance premium electric scooter with 86 km real world range and smart connected capabilities.
Ola S1 Pro: New age high speed performance scooter with 8.5 kW motor delivering top speed of 115 kmph using a proprietary MoveOS platform.
Each brand offers unique capabilities and styling reflecting their target consumer, but the Chetak strikes an optimal balance of features, finish and pricing for mainstream buyers.
Financing Options
To boost adoption among buyers, attractive financing schemes and offers are available on the Chetak EV via tie-ups with leading financial institutions:
EMI Schemes
- Low EMI starting from just ₹3,579 per month
- Loans offered for up to 100% on-road price at 11.75% interest rate
- Up to 6 years loan repayment period options available
Additional Incentives
As part of promotional campaigns, current incentives include:
- Low processing fee starting from just ₹1,999
- First 3 EMIs covered under benefit scheme
- Complimentary 1 Year insurance being offered
Attractive finance schemes make the Chetak more affordable to own. Low EMIs in particular can persuade commuters to switch from petrol run scooters to electric even with constrained budgets.
Latest News and Updates
New Color Option
Bajaj recently introduced a new color variant called Lucid Red under its Urban Premium portfolio. The rich dark red shade features a dual tone element with black finishes across borders and wheels. Launched to provide greater contemporary choice to customers beyond the silver, grey and blue options initially available.
Fame II Subsidy Revision
The model is eligible for incentives under the updated FAME II subsidy policy as of 2023. Per the latest slab, buyers can claim up to ₹38,000 upfront discount on ex-showroom prices. This further improves the value proposition for Chetak EV purchase.
Export Plans
Given strong demand in domestic market currently, Bajaj is reportedly utilising 100% existing capacity. Now to further scale up, the brand is exploring export possibilities to markets like Latin America and South Asia:
- Assess demand scenario across global markets
- Evaluate optimal derivatives and specifications desired internationally
- Ramp up production capacities beyond 100,000 units per annum
The developments indicate Bajaj’s growing focus on EVs both for domestic and international demand using the Chetak as pathfinder given its strong brand equity worldwide.
City-wise Ex-Showroom Pricing
Thanks to local assembly, consistent pricing across states keeps acquisition costs similar for buyers nationally. Here is the city-wise latest ex-showroom pricing:
| City | Price |
|---|---|
| Gurgaon | 1.00 Lakh onwards |
| Jaipur | 1.15 Lakh |
| Mumbai | 1.15 Lakh |
| Pune | 1.15 Lakh |
| Chennai | 1.15 Lakh |
| Bangalore | 1.15 Lakh |
On-road pricing varies across cities depending on individual registration costs, insurance charges and state-specific subsidies or taxes applicable. But the consistent ex-showroom pricing nationally enables fair deferred purchase cost comparison between states.
FAQs
Does the Chetak offer fast charging support?
Yes, the scooter supports fast charging via easily accessible CCS2 DC fast charging outlets. This allows 0 to 80% rapid charging possible within 65 minutes for longer drives.
What real-world range can one expect from a full charge?
The ARAI certified range with 100% charge is 129 kms per full charge. However for practical city usage limiting speed and using Eco mode, expect approx 80-100 km without range anxiety before needing to recharge.
What is the warranty coverage offered by Bajaj?
Bajaj offers warranty coverage up to 3 Years or 50,000 kms whichever is earlier. This covers any manufacturer defects on major mechanical or electrical components barring regular wear tear or physical damage.
Does the scooter offer advanced connectivity features?
Yes, although not as cutting edge as some rivals, the Bajaj Chetak EV provides basic smartphone connectivity via the Chetak mobile app. You can analyze previous ride logs, get vehicle health notifications and use features like geo fencing for security. There is scope for adding more functionality and remote features via future software updates.
So in summary, the iconic Chetak makes a welcome sustainable return as an electric urban scooter balancing green credentials and retro appeal on a budget. For those seeking eco-friendly short daily commute without sacrificing style or breaking the bank, the new Chetak EV warrants serious consideration.
