New Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter Spotted, Could Be The Cheapest One Yet
Bajaj seems to be following TVS’ path, here’s how
[UPDATE: The new Bajaj Chetak has been launched]
Quick News Highlights:
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Seen with a hub-mounted motor, could be part of a more affordable series
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Gets new suspension setup, LCD console, and revised tail light design
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Expected price range: Rs 80,000-90,000 (ex-showroom)
Bajaj appears to be preparing the next phase of its Chetak lineup, as a new version of the electric scooter has been spotted testing on Indian roads. The prototype seems to be a part of a new lineup designed to sit below the current Chetak 3001 in both pricing and spec and feature-wise. This could be similar to how Bajaj offers multiple bikes with the same engine capacity but at slightly varying prices.
Design & Styling
This new retro electric scooter gets styling similar to the Chetak on sale right now, but with several changes. The overall dimensions and the seat seems smaller too. The seat shape, the rear grab handle, and the side panels are new as well. The front indicators have moved from the apron to the handlebar cowl, the front mudguard and fork cover appear similar to what was seen on an earlier prototype. At the rear, it gets a new tail light design that combines the brake lights and indicators, as opposed to the current split unit.
Whether Bajaj continues using the brand’s signature metal body panels, or switches to lighter plastic or fibre materials remains an open question. The company’s preference for metal has been a USP (Unique Selling Point), but being lighter should ensure it is not only competitively priced but also offer better range.
Battery, Motor, Performance, & Range
The new Bajaj Chetak could share its battery with the existing Chetak 3001 (3kWh). That said, the 3001 has a mid-mounted motor while this new one has a hub-mounted one, which are generally more cost-effective. The 3001 has a top speed of 63kmph and up to 127km of claimed range. We expect the new version to maintain a similar top speed, but deliver around 145-150km through calmer throttle mapping.
Underpinnings
From the spy shots, we can clearly see a telescopic fork and twin shock absorbers. This is in stark contrast to the current Chetak’s leading link and swingarm setup – both single-sided to make it look similar to the original petrol-powered Chetak scooter. Wheel sizes are expected to be a 12-inch front and 10-inch rear; the test mule had a front disc brake. Boot space might be slightly reduced owing to what looks like a smaller seat section, but it still gets 2 open cubbyholes on the apron for extra storage.
Features
The scooter features a new, somewhat V-shaped LCD instrument console instead of the round one seen on higher trims. Also present is an all-in-one key slot and all-LED lighting. For cost-effectiveness’ sake, the switchgear looks basic as compared to the gloss black, flush-fitting buttons on the existing Chetaks.
Expected Price, Launch Date, & Rivals
The Bajaj Chetak 3001 is priced at Rs 1,02,400 (ex-showroom) right now. This new model is likely to sit around the Rs 80,000-90,000 (ex-showroom) mark, making it one of the more affordable premium electric scooters on the market. Bajaj may launch the e-scooter some time next year, possibly around June. It could rival the lower variants of the TVS iQube, and the recently launched TVS Orbiter. If our guesstimate is right, this will be similar to what TVS did with its iQube and Orbiter - offering an affordable yet premium option for those with tighter budgets.
User Reviews
I had purchased it when ev was new in market, I am very much satisfied. I had drove it for more than 50000 kms with no expense. I had to change only tyres and regular service only one auxiliary battery of Rs. 800 had been changed. I am quiet impressed me and my son both have purchased but there is very less front space between handle and seat to carry extra luggage vegetables or ration need to improve in this area good service staff in patni and Nagpur. I will recommend everyone to go for this ev only. Positive, Very good for local commute, I had recovered all the money spend for purchase, me and my son had not spend a single penny for petrol, very pleasant ride for city and highway also but with limitation of distance. mid age person college boys with huge space in seat box for helmet and laptop girls working women also it's value for money, I had already 2 chetak with me and both vehicle had been run for 50000 and 23000 kms planning to purchase one more for my wife.Read More