In a move that has electrified the Indian automotive industry, Bajaj Auto has pulled the wraps off its highly anticipated New Chetak EV.
This latest iteration of the iconic Chetak scooter, now in a fully electric avatar, promises to redefine urban mobility and cement Bajaj’s position as a leader in the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market.
A Legacy Reborn
The Chetak, first introduced in 1972, quickly became a cultural icon in India, symbolizing freedom, reliability, and aspiration for millions.
Its return in 2019 as an electric scooter was met with enthusiasm, and now, with this new version, Bajaj aims to capture the hearts of a new generation of riders while addressing the pressing need for sustainable transportation.
“The New Chetak EV is not just a product; it’s a testament to Bajaj’s commitment to innovation and sustainability,” says Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto.
“We’re not just reviving a brand; we’re reimagining the future of mobility in India.”
Design: Retro-Futurism at Its Finest
The New Chetak EV strikes a delicate balance between nostalgia and futurism.
The classic silhouette that made the original Chetak a design icon has been retained, but with modern touches that bring it firmly into the 21st century.
The front apron features sleek LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, giving the scooter a distinctive face.
The side panels are sculpted to evoke the curves of the original Chetak, while the rear sports a LED taillight that spans the width of the scooter, creating a unique light signature.
“Our design philosophy was to create a scooter that pays homage to its heritage while looking decidedly forward-thinking,” explains Pratap Bose, Head of Design at Bajaj Auto. “The New Chetak EV is a perfect blend of the past and the future.”
Powertrain: Electrifying Performance
At the heart of the New Chetak EV is a state-of-the-art electric powertrain that promises to deliver both performance and efficiency.
The scooter is powered by a high-capacity lithium-ion battery pack, coupled with a brushless DC motor.
Key specifications include:
- Power output: 4.08 kW (5.47 HP)
- Torque: 16 Nm
- Top speed: 70 km/h
- Range: Up to 150 km on a single charge (Eco mode)
- Charging time: 0-80% in 3.5 hours with standard charger, 0-100% in 5 hours
The New Chetak EV offers two riding modes – Eco and Sport – allowing riders to prioritize range or performance based on their needs.
Technology: Smart Mobility for the Digital Age
Bajaj has loaded the New Chetak EV with cutting-edge technology to enhance the riding experience and provide seamless connectivity.
The scooter features a 7-inch TFT display that serves as the command center, providing vital information such as speed, battery status, and riding mode.
Other notable tech features include:
- Smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates
- Geofencing and location tracking
- Keyless ignition
- Reverse mode for easy maneuvering
The Chetak mobile app allows users to monitor their scooter’s status, plan routes, and even locate nearby charging stations.
Comfort and Convenience: Designed for Urban Commutes
Recognizing the challenges of urban commuting, Bajaj has paid special attention to rider comfort and convenience. The New Chetak EV boasts:
- A spacious floorboard for comfortable foot placement
- A wide, contoured seat with premium upholstery
- Front and rear disc brakes with CBS (Combined Braking System)
- Telescopic front suspension and single-sided swingarm rear suspension
- Under-seat storage capable of accommodating a full-face helmet
- USB charging port for on-the-go device charging
Manufacturing and Sustainability
Bajaj has invested heavily in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Pune, dedicated to producing electric vehicles.
The company claims that the production process for the New Chetak EV is highly automated and environmentally friendly, with a focus on reducing carbon footprint.
“We’re not just creating a product; we’re building an ecosystem,” says Eric Vas, President of Bajaj Auto’s Urbanite Business Unit.
“From sourcing components to end-of-life recycling, we’ve considered the environmental impact at every stage.”
Market Positioning and Pricing
The New Chetak EV is positioned as a premium electric scooter, targeting urban professionals and eco-conscious consumers.
While official pricing hasn’t been announced, industry insiders expect it to be priced competitively in the range of ₹1.2 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
This pricing strategy puts the Chetak EV in direct competition with other premium electric scooters like the Ather 450X and the TVS iQube.
Impact on the Indian EV Landscape
The launch of the New Chetak EV is expected to have a significant impact on the electric two-wheeler market in India.
With its blend of heritage, modern technology, and Bajaj’s extensive dealer network, the Chetak EV has the potential to accelerate EV adoption in the country.
“Bajaj’s entry into the premium electric scooter segment with the New Chetak EV is a game-changer,” opines Suraj Ghosh, Principal Analyst at IHS Markit.
“It brings credibility and scale to a segment that has been dominated by startups so far.”
Government Support and Infrastructure
The launch of the New Chetak EV comes at a time when the Indian government is pushing for electric mobility through various initiatives and incentives.
The FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) scheme offers subsidies for electric two-wheelers, making them more affordable for consumers.
Bajaj has also announced plans to set up a network of fast-charging stations across major cities, addressing one of the key concerns of potential EV buyers – range anxiety.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Bajaj and Electric Mobility
The New Chetak EV represents more than just a new product for Bajaj; it’s a statement of intent. The company has announced plans to introduce more electric models across different segments in the coming years.
“The Chetak EV is just the beginning,” says Rajiv Bajaj. “We see electric mobility as the future, and Bajaj is committed to being at the forefront of this revolution.”
Bajaj Chetak : A New Chapter in Indian Mobility
As the New Chetak EV prepares to hit the streets, it carries with it the weight of expectations – from consumers looking for a reliable and stylish electric scooter, from environmentalists hoping for a reduction in urban pollution, and from industry watchers keen to see how a traditional automaker navigates the electric transition.
With its blend of nostalgia, cutting-edge technology, and Bajaj’s manufacturing prowess, the New Chetak EV seems well-positioned to make a significant impact.
As India moves towards an electric future, the Chetak, once again, finds itself at the forefront of a mobility revolution.
The stage is set, the batteries are charged, and the New Chetak EV is ready to silently zoom into the future, carrying with it the hopes of a cleaner, greener India.