Bajaj Chetak Electric: A Modern Revival of an Indian Icon

Introduction

The electric vehicle revolution is in full swing, and it’s not just cars that are getting the battery-powered treatment. Two-wheelers, particularly in densely populated countries like India, are also going electric. One of the most exciting entries in this space is the Bajaj Chetak Electric – a modern revival of an iconic Indian scooter. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this stylish and eco-friendly ride.

The Legacy of Chetak

Before we dive into the electric version, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane:

• The original Chetak was launched in 1972
• It was inspired by the Italian Vespa Sprint
• Became a cultural icon in India, often referred to as the “Hamara Bajaj” (Our Bajaj)
• Production of the original model ceased in 2006

The Chetak name carries significant weight in the Indian market, making its electric comeback all the more exciting.

Bajaj Chetak Electric: Design and Aestheticsrev

Retro-Modern Fusion

The new Bajaj Chetak Electric masterfully blends retro charm with modern aesthetics:

• Sleek, curvy body reminiscent of the original Chetak
• LED lighting all around, including a distinctive horseshoe-shaped headlamp
• Digital instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity
• Premium metal body, unlike many plastic-bodied competitors

Color Options

The Chetak Electric is available in six sophisticated colors:

1. Indigo Metallic
2. Hazelnut
3. Brooklyn Black
4. Citrus Rush
5. Velutto Rosso
6. Mojito Green

These colors give the scooter a premium feel and allow for personalization.

Performance and Powertrain

Electric Motor and Battery

The heart of the Chetak Electric is its advanced electric powertrain:

Feature	Specification
Motor Type	IP67-rated BLDC
Motor Power	4080W (Peak)
Battery Capacity	3.0 kWh (Lithium-ion)
Charging Time	4 hours (0 to 100%)
Range	Up to 95 km (Eco mode)

Riding Modes

The Chetak offers two riding modes to balance performance and range:

1. Eco Mode: Prioritizes efficiency, offering maximum range
2. Sport Mode: Provides more responsive acceleration for a sportier ride

Features and Technology

Smart Connectivity

The Chetak isn’t just electric; it’s smart too:

• Bluetooth connectivity
• Dedicated smartphone app for vehicle status and diagnostics
• Over-the-air updates for continuous improvement

Safety and Convenience

• Reverse assist mode for easy maneuvering
• Hill-hold control to prevent rolling on inclines
• Front disc brake and rear drum brake with regenerative braking
• Anti-theft alarm and vehicle locator

Practicality and Comfort

Storage and Ergonomics

• Spacious under-seat storage for a full-face helmet
• Comfortable seating position for both rider and pillion
• Wide floorboard for easy footing and carrying small items

Charging Infrastructure

Bajaj is working on expanding the charging network:

• Home charging solution provided with the scooter
• A growing network of public charging stations in major cities
• Fast-charging capability for quick top-ups

Environmental Impact

Emissions Reduction

By choosing the Chetak Electric, riders contribute to reducing urban air pollution:

• Zero tailpipe emissions
• Lower overall carbon footprint compared to petrol scooters
• Quiet operation, reducing noise pollution

Sustainability Initiatives

Bajaj is committed to sustainable manufacturing:

• Use of recyclable materials in production
• Energy-efficient manufacturing processes
• Battery recycling program in development

Ownership Experience

Warranty and Service

Bajaj stands behind the Chetak Electric with a comprehensive warranty:

• 3 years or 50,000 km warranty on the scooter
• 3 years or 50,000 km warranty on the battery
• Service intervals of 12 months or 12,000 km

Cost of Ownership

While the initial purchase price may be higher than a conventional scooter, the Chetak Electric offers significant savings in the long run:

• Lower “fuel” costs with electricity vs. petrol
• Reduced maintenance due to fewer moving parts
• Potential government incentives for electric vehicle purchases

Comparison with Competitors

How does the Chetak Electric stack up against other electric scooters in the market? Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Bajaj Chetak	Ather 450X	TVS iQube
Range (km)	95	116	75
Top Speed (km/h)	70	80	78
Charging Time (0-100%)	4 hours	5.45 hours	5 hours
Price (Ex-showroom)	₹1,42,000 – ₹1,44,000	₹1,45,000 – ₹1,65,000	₹1,22,000 – ₹1,28,000

The Future of Bajaj Electric

The Chetak Electric is just the beginning of Bajaj’s foray into electric mobility:

• Plans for more electric models in different segments
• Ongoing research and development for improved battery technology
• Potential for export to other markets with growing EV demand

Conclusion: Is the Bajaj Chetak Electric Right for You?

The Bajaj Chetak Electric offers a compelling package for urban commuters:

• Stylish design that turns heads
• Eco-friendly transportation with zero emissions
• Smart features for a connected riding experience
• The practical range for daily city use
• Legacy of a trusted Indian brand

Whether you’re an eco-conscious rider, a tech enthusiast, or simply looking for a premium scooter experience, the Chetak Electric deserves serious consideration. As electric vehicle adoption grows, the Chetak positions itself as a frontrunner in the electric scooter revolution.

Spec Sheet

Here’s a detailed spec sheet for the Bajaj Chetak Electric:

Specification	Detail
Motor Type	IP67-rated BLDC
Motor Power	4080W (Peak)
Battery Type	Lithium-ion
Battery Capacity	3.0 kWh
Range	Up to 95 km (Eco mode)
Top Speed	70 km/h
Charging Time	4 hours (0 to 100%)
Front Suspension	Single-sided trailing arm
Rear Suspension	Single-sided swingarm with mono shock
Front Brake	Disc
Rear Brake	Drum with regenerative braking
Tire Size (Front)	90/90-12
Tire Size (Rear)	90/90-12
Ground Clearance	160 mm
Seat Height	780 mm
Kerb Weight	120 kg
Colors Available	Indigo Metallic, Hazelnut, Brooklyn Black, Cytrus Rush, Velutto Rosso, Mojito Green

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you had a chance to ride the Bajaj Chetak Electric? What features do you find most appealing? Share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments below!