In the vibrant streets of India, a familiar name has made a comeback, but with a modern twist. The Bajaj Chetak, once the undisputed ruler of Indian roads, has been reborn as an electric scooter, blending nostalgia with the latest technology. Let’s explore the new Bajaj Chetak EV and see how this classic has been reimagined for today’s world.
A Glimpse into the Past
Before we move forward, let’s take a moment to look back. The original Chetak, named after Maharana Pratap’s legendary horse, was much more than just a scooter. It became a cultural icon, representing the aspirations of middle-class India. For over three decades, from 1972 to 2006, the Chetak was the go-to scooter for millions, earning the nickname “Hamara Bajaj” (Our Bajaj) through a memorable advertising campaign.
The Rise of Electric Vehicles
Fast forward to 2024, and the automotive world has transformed. With growing concerns over climate change and the shift toward sustainable transportation, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a distant dream—they are here. Recognizing this shift, Bajaj Auto decided to bring back the Chetak, giving it an electric makeover for the future.
Design: A Blend of Classic and Contemporary
The new Chetak EV immediately evokes a sense of nostalgia while showcasing a futuristic design. It retains the iconic rounded shape of the original Chetak but with a sleek, modern twist. The scooter features a seamless steel unibody construction, ensuring durability while nodding to its heritage.
The 2024 model comes in a range of stylish colors:
- 3501 variant: Pista Green, Hazelnut, Indigo Metallic, Brooklyn Black, and Matte Scarlett Red
- 3502 variant: Indigo Metallic, Brooklyn Black, Matte Charcoal Grey, and Cyber White
These color choices let riders pick between classic elegance and bold, contemporary looks.
Performance: Quiet Yet Powerful
Beneath its retro-inspired exterior, the Chetak EV is all about modern performance. Powered by a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, it offers a certified range of 153 km on a single charge, tackling one of the biggest concerns for potential EV buyers—range anxiety.
With a top speed of 73 km/h, the Chetak is perfect for navigating urban traffic and short highway journeys. Its instant torque delivery ensures quick acceleration, making it ideal for busy city streets.
Charging: Quick and Convenient
Charging is a crucial aspect of any electric vehicle, and Bajaj has made sure the Chetak doesn’t disappoint. The 3501 variant features a 950W onboard charger, allowing it to charge from 0 to 80% in just 3 hours. The 3502 variant takes about 3 hours and 25 minutes for the same charge.
These quick charging times make it convenient to recharge during a lunch break or a short shopping trip, ensuring you’re always ready to go.
Features: Tech-Savvy and Comfortable
The Chetak EV offers more than just an eco-friendly ride—it’s packed with features that enhance the riding experience:
- Smart Console: The 3501 variant comes with a touchscreen TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and music control. The 3502 variant features a color TFT display with turn-by-turn navigation.
- LED Lighting: Full LED lights not only look stylish but also improve visibility.
- Storage Space: With 35 liters of under-seat storage, there’s plenty of room for your essentials.
- Connected Features: The Chetak app provides geo-fencing, low battery alerts, and over-the-air updates.
- Reverse Mode: Perfect for tight parking spaces.
- Multiple Riding Modes: Choose between Eco and Sport modes to balance performance and range.
Safety: Ride with Confidence
Safety is a top priority for Bajaj. The Chetak EV comes with a solid braking system—both the 3501 and 3502 variants feature a front disc and rear drum brake setup, while the 3503 variant has drum brakes on both ends. Additional safety features include an anti-theft alarm, keyless ignition, and a side-stand sensor.
Variants: Options for Every Rider
Bajaj offers the Chetak EV in three variants:
- 3501: The premium model, loaded with features.
- 3502: A mid-range option that balances features and price.
- 3503: An entry-level variant (details to be announced).
This tiered approach allows Bajaj to cater to different budgets while maintaining the core Chetak EV experience.
Pricing: A Smart Investment
As of December 2024, the Chetak EV is priced competitively:
- 3501 variant: ₹1,27,243 (ex-showroom, Bangalore)
- 3502 variant: ₹1,20,000 (ex-showroom, Bangalore)
- 3503 variant: Price yet to be announced
While the prices may seem higher than traditional petrol scooters, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance make the Chetak EV a wise choice.
The Riding Experience
Riding the Chetak EV is a delightful mix of old and new. The comfortable seating and stable chassis make it easy to handle, just like the classic Chetak. However, the quiet operation, instant torque, and smooth acceleration give it a distinctly modern feel.
The scooter’s low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution enhance stability, making it easy to navigate through busy city traffic. The regenerative braking system not only extends the range but also provides a smooth deceleration experience.
Environmental Impact
Choosing the Chetak EV is a step toward reducing urban pollution and cutting down on carbon emissions. Bajaj has also committed to eco-friendly manufacturing practices, further minimizing the environmental impact of the Chetak.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the Chetak EV is a significant advancement, it faces challenges. The lack of widespread charging infrastructure remains a concern for long-distance travel. Additionally, the initial cost may be a deterrent for some, despite the long-term savings.
However, with government incentives for electric vehicles and a growing awareness of environmental issues, the future of the Chetak EV and electric mobility in India looks promising.
Conclusion: A Classic Reborn
The Bajaj Chetak EV is not just an electric scooter—it’s a symbol of how iconic brands can evolve with the times. With its perfect blend of nostalgia and modern technology, the Chetak EV is ready to make a mark in the 21st century, and the future of electric mobility in India has never looked brighter.
My name is Rupesh Kumar. I have a keen interest in writing about automobile and technology. I have been working in this field for the last 3 years and sharing my knowledge and experiences through my writings.
