Bijay Nayak
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution in India has taken a giant leap with Bajaj Auto reintroducing its iconic Chetak in a new electric avatar. Priced at ₹1.20 lakh (ex-showroom), the Bajaj Chetak aims to redefine urban commuting by blending nostalgia, modern technology, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about this premium electric scooter.
Design and Build Quality of Bajaj Chetak
One of the standout features of the Bajaj Chetak is its design, which draws inspiration from its original petrol-powered predecessor. The retro-modern styling includes rounded edges, sleek lines, and a timeless appeal that pays homage to its heritage.
- Metal Body: Unlike most electric scooters that use plastic, the Chetak features a full-metal body, ensuring durability and a premium look.
- Color Options: The scooter is available in attractive colors like Indigo Metallic, Brooklyn Black, and Hazel Nut, catering to a wide range of aesthetic preferences.
- LED Lighting: From the headlamp to the indicators, the Chetak is equipped with LED lighting that enhances visibility and adds to its modern appeal.
The build quality is robust, making it suitable for both city rides and occasional longer commutes.
Performance and Battery of Bajaj Chetak
The Bajaj Chetak is powered by a high-efficiency electric motor coupled with a lithium-ion battery pack. Here are the key specifications:
- Range: The scooter offers a range of up to 95 km in Eco mode and around 85 km in Sport mode on a single charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes.
- Top Speed: With a maximum speed of 70 km/h, the Chetak ensures a smooth and efficient ride.
- Charging Time: The battery takes approximately 5 hours for a full charge and about 1 hour to charge up to 25%.
- Battery Life: The lithium-ion battery is designed to last for 70,000 km or up to 7 years, ensuring long-term reliability.
The performance of the Chetak aligns with the needs of urban commuters who prioritize efficiency and sustainability.
Technology and Features of Bajaj Chetak
Bajaj has equipped the Chetak with cutting-edge technology to enhance the user experience. Some of its standout features include:
- Digital Console: A fully digital instrument cluster displays all essential information such as speed, range, battery level, and ride mode.
- Connected Features: Through the Chetak mobile app, riders can access navigation, vehicle diagnostics, and battery health reports.
- Reverse Assist: The reverse mode makes it easy to maneuver the scooter in tight parking spaces.
- Keyless Start: The scooter comes with a keyless ignition system for added convenience.
These advanced features ensure the Chetak is on par with other premium electric scooters available in the market.
Comfort and Convenience
Riding comfort is a priority for Bajaj, and the Chetak delivers with several thoughtful additions:
- Seating: The well-cushioned seat is designed for comfort, accommodating both the rider and pillion.
- Suspension: With a front single-sided trailing-arm suspension and a rear monoshock, the scooter offers a smooth ride even on bumpy roads.
- Storage: The under-seat storage is spacious enough to hold a helmet and other essentials, making it practical for daily use.
These features ensure a hassle-free riding experience for urban dwellers.
Pricing and Variants
The Bajaj Chetak is priced at ₹1.20 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a premium offering in the electric scooter segment. The scooter is available in two variants:
- Urbane: The base model with essential features and fewer color options.
- Premium: The higher-end model offering additional features like metallic paint and premium upholstery.
The pricing reflects its premium build, technology, and performance, appealing to environmentally-conscious buyers looking for a stylish and reliable EV.
Government Subsidies and Benefits
The Indian government’s FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme provides subsidies for electric vehicles. Buyers can avail significant cost reductions on the Bajaj Chetak, depending on their state policies.
Additionally, EVs are exempt from road tax in many states, further reducing the overall cost of ownership. These incentives make the Chetak a financially attractive option.
Competitors in the Market
The electric scooter segment in India is growing rapidly, and the Bajaj Chetak faces competition from several players:
- Ather 450X: Known for its performance and advanced features, the Ather 450X is a strong competitor.
- Ola S1: With aggressive pricing and features like a large touchscreen console, the Ola S1 has gained significant traction.
- TVS iQube: Another contender offering a balance between affordability and features.
While these scooters offer unique selling points, the Chetak stands out for its timeless design and robust build quality.
Pros and Cons of Bajaj Chetak
Pros:
- Premium and durable metal body.
- Decent range suitable for city commutes.
- Advanced features like reverse assist and keyless ignition.
- Low maintenance costs due to its electric drivetrain.
Cons:
- Relatively higher price compared to some competitors.
- Limited availability in select cities.
- Longer charging time compared to fast-charging EVs.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Chetak’s overall package makes it a compelling choice for urban riders.
Availability and After-Sales Service
Bajaj Auto is gradually expanding the availability of the Chetak across major cities in India. The company has also invested in a robust after-sales service network to ensure a seamless ownership experience. The scooter comes with a 3-year/50,000 km warranty, including coverage for the battery.
Environmental Impact
Switching to electric scooters like the Bajaj Chetak contributes significantly to reducing carbon emissions. By opting for the Chetak, riders can:
- Reduce their carbon footprint.
- Minimize air pollution in urban areas.
- Support India’s vision for a sustainable and greener future.
The eco-friendly nature of the Chetak makes it an ideal choice for environmentally-conscious individuals.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Chetak, priced at ₹1.20 lakh, combines heritage, technology, and sustainability to create a premium electric scooter that caters to modern urban needs. Its stylish design, robust performance, and advanced features make it a standout choice in the growing EV market. While the price may seem steep, the long-term benefits, low running costs, and environmental impact justify the investment.
As the electric vehicle landscape in India continues to evolve, the Bajaj Chetak stands as a testament to the potential of combining tradition with innovation. Whether you’re a nostalgic rider or a forward-thinking commuter, the Chetak offers a unique blend of the past and the future
