The original Bajaj Chetak, launched in the 1970s, became a household name in India, earning the affectionate nickname “Hamara Bajaj” (Our Bajaj). For decades, it symbolized middle-class aspiration and mobility, becoming deeply embedded in the social fabric of the nation. The scooter’s production ceased in 2005, marking the end of an era. However, the emotional connection that Indians shared with the Chetak remained strong, creating the perfect foundation for its electric rebirth.
Bajaj Chetak EV The Revival Journey
After a 14-year hiatus, Bajaj Auto surprised the market by announcing the return of the Chetak brand in 2019, but with a significant twist – it would be all-electric. This strategic move aligned with global automotive trends toward electrification while leveraging the brand’s nostalgic appeal. The new Chetak EV officially launched in January 2020, initially in Pune and Bangalore, before gradually expanding to other cities across India.
Bajaj Chetak EV Design Philosophy
The Chetak EV’s design philosophy brilliantly balances heritage with modernity. While maintaining the classic silhouette that made the original Chetak instantly recognizable, the new model features sleek, contemporary lines and premium finishes. The horseshoe-shaped LED headlamp, digital console, and seamless body panels create a sophisticated aesthetic that appeals to both nostalgic older generations and style-conscious younger buyers.
Unlike many utilitarian electric scooters, the Chetak EV embraces a premium positioning with meticulous attention to detail, including metal body construction rather than the plastic panels common in competitors. This design approach sets it apart in the Indian electric two-wheeler segment, which has typically prioritized functionality over form.
Bajaj Chetak EV Technical Specifications and Performance
The Chetak EV is powered by a 3.8kW electric motor that delivers approximately 5.1 horsepower and 16Nm of torque. The IP67-rated motor draws power from a non-removable lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of around 3kWh, offering a real-world range of 80-95 kilometers on a single charge.
The scooter features two riding modes – Eco and Sport – allowing riders to prioritize either extended range or enhanced performance. In Eco mode, the top speed is limited to about 40 km/h, while Sport mode enables speeds up to 70 km/h with more responsive acceleration.
Charging is accomplished via a standard 5A home power outlet, with a complete charge taking approximately 5-6 hours. The battery management system includes regenerative braking technology that helps extend range by recovering energy during deceleration.
Bajaj Chetak EV Smart Features and Connectivity
The Chetak EV incorporates several smart features that elevate the riding experience. A fully digital instrument cluster displays essential information like speed, range, battery status, and ride mode. Bajaj also offers a dedicated smartphone application that enables riders to:
- Check battery status and estimated range
- Locate the scooter via GPS tracking
- Access ride history and statistics
- Receive maintenance alerts and notifications
- Enable tamper alerts and security features
The connectivity suite includes Bluetooth integration and over-the-air update capability, ensuring the scooter’s software remains current throughout its lifecycle.
Bajaj Chetak EV Market Positioning and Competition
Bajaj positioned the Chetak EV as a premium offering in the electric two-wheeler segment, reflected in its higher price point compared to many competitors. This strategy differentiates it from the more budget-oriented approaches of rivals like Hero Electric and Okinawa.
The Chetak EV’s main competitors include the TVS iQube, Ather 450X, and the Ola S1 Pro. Each offers distinct advantages – the Ather emphasizes performance and technology, the TVS leverages its established dealer network, and the Ola S1 Pro focuses on range and features. The Chetak distinguishes itself through superior build quality, classic design language, and the heritage factor.
Bajaj Chetak EV Manufacturing and Production Challenges
The Chetak EV’s production journey has faced several hurdles. Initially manufactured at Bajaj’s Chakan plant near Pune, production was temporarily halted due to supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly affecting the availability of semiconductor components and battery cells.
In response to growing demand and to overcome these challenges, Bajaj announced plans to establish a dedicated manufacturing facility for electric vehicles in Akurdi, with an annual production capacity of 500,000 units. This facility represents a significant investment in India’s electric mobility future.
Bajaj Chetak EV Pricing Strategy and Government Incentives
The Chetak EV launched with a premium price tag, positioning it above most conventional petrol scooters. However, various government incentives under India’s FAME II (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles) scheme have helped make it more accessible to consumers. These incentives include:
- Direct purchase subsidies
- Reduced GST rates (5% compared to 28% for petrol vehicles)
- Road tax exemptions in many states
- Free parking in several urban centers
These financial incentives, combined with significantly lower operating costs compared to petrol alternatives, strengthen the Chetak EV’s value proposition despite its higher initial investment.
Bajaj Chetak EV User Experience and Customer Feedback
Early adopters of the Chetak EV have reported high satisfaction with the build quality, smooth riding experience, and low maintenance requirements. The scooter’s quiet operation and vibration-free performance receive consistent praise, as does its elegant design.
Some users have expressed concerns about the limited range for longer commutes and the non-removable battery, which necessitates access to charging infrastructure at home or work. Additionally, initial service network limitations posed challenges for early buyers, though Bajaj has since expanded its service capabilities for electric vehicles.
Bajaj Chetak EV Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The Chetak EV contributes to reduced urban pollution by eliminating tailpipe emissions. However, a comprehensive environmental assessment must consider the entire lifecycle, including battery production and electricity generation sources.
Bajaj has implemented a battery recycling program to address end-of-life concerns, partnering with specialized recycling firms to recover valuable materials from depleted batteries. The company has also invested in solar power generation at its manufacturing facilities to reduce the carbon footprint associated with production.
Bajaj Chetak EV Future Roadmap and Innovation
Bajaj Auto has outlined ambitious plans for the Chetak EV platform, including:
- Extended range variants with larger battery packs
- Faster charging capabilities through improved technology
- Additional model variants targeting different market segments
- Enhanced connectivity features and software improvements
- Potential export to select international markets
The company has also established Chetak Technology Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary focused exclusively on electric mobility solutions, signaling its long-term commitment to this technology.
Bajaj Chetak EV Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its promising start, the Chetak EV faces several challenges:
- Building adequate charging infrastructure across diverse Indian geographies
- Managing battery performance in extreme weather conditions
- Addressing range anxiety among potential customers
- Competing with increasingly capable and affordable alternatives
- Navigating evolving government policies and incentive structures
These challenges are balanced by significant opportunities:
- Growing consumer awareness about environmental issues
- Rising fuel prices making electric alternatives more attractive
- Technological advancements driving battery cost reductions
- Potential for establishing early market leadership in a rapidly growing segment
Bajaj Chetak EV
The Bajaj Chetak EV represents more than just another entry in India’s electric vehicle market—it symbolizes the marriage of heritage with future-focused innovation. By reviving an iconic brand with cutting-edge technology, Bajaj has created a compelling narrative that resonates with consumers on both emotional and practical levels.
As India accelerates its transition toward sustainable mobility, the Chetak EV stands as a testament to how traditional automotive manufacturers can successfully navigate the electric revolution. Its blend of classic design, modern technology, and environmental consciousness offers a template for how beloved vehicle brands can remain relevant in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.