Bajaj, a name synonymous with iconic scooters in India, has made a powerful comeback with the all-electric Bajaj Chetak. Once a household name during the era of petrol-powered two-wheelers, the Chetak has now been reimagined for the future—this time as an electric scooter that combines retro charm with modern innovation. But does it live up to its legacy, and more importantly, is it the EV scooter that truly stands out in today’s crowded electric mobility market?
Timeless Design Meets Modern Tech
At first glance, the Bajaj Chetak exudes classic Italian-inspired elegance. Its curvy metal body, LED lighting, and iconic front apron take you back to the vintage two-wheeler era, but with a clear modern twist. Unlike many plastic-bodied electric scooters, the Chetak features a full-metal body that not only adds to its premium feel but also gives it a robust structure.
The design is subtle yet striking. It’s available in attractive color variants such as Indigo Metallic, Brooklyn Black, and Hazelnut, appealing to riders who want style without compromising on eco-consciousness.
Performance & Range: City-Ready Efficiency
Underneath its classic frame lies a powerful electric motor and a 3.0 kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a real-world range of around 90–108 km on a full charge. It’s equipped with two riding modes: Eco and Sport, giving riders control over power consumption and performance.
The Chetak may not be the fastest e-scooter out there, but it is built for smooth city commutes. The top speed of 63 km/h makes it ideal for navigating urban traffic without hassle. Moreover, it takes about 4 hours for a full charge, which can be done at home or at dedicated Bajaj Chetak charging points.
Digital Features and Connectivity
Bajaj has included a fully digital LCD instrument cluster that displays information like speed, battery level, and range. Riders can also connect their smartphones to the scooter via the Bajaj Chetak app, which offers features like navigation, security alerts, charging status, and more. While it doesn’t have a touchscreen or ultra-smart AI systems like some rivals, its functionality is user-friendly and practical.
Build Quality and Ride Comfort
The Chetak’s build quality is where it shines. The metal panels not only offer durability but also reduce vibrations, resulting in a smoother ride. The suspension setup—with a front leading-link suspension and monoshock at the rear—offers a comfortable experience on bumpy roads. The 12-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tires add to the scooter’s overall stability and grip.
Safety and After-Sales Support
With regenerative braking and a combined braking system (CBS), the Chetak ensures safe and responsive braking. Although it lacks ABS, the braking system is competent for its segment.
Bajaj also offers a warranty of 3 years or 50,000 km, whichever comes first. The company’s expanding EV service network and growing number of showrooms are helping to improve post-sale support, a major concern for electric vehicle buyers.
Price and Competition
The Bajaj Chetak is priced between â‚ą1.15 lakh to â‚ą1.45 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on the variant and city. While it’s slightly more expensive than competitors like the TVS iQube and Ather 450S, it justifies the premium with its superior build quality and legacy appeal.
Conclusion:
The Bajaj Chetak is more than just a scooter—it’s a symbol of nostalgia fused with a vision for the future. It may not be the most aggressive performer or the smartest scooter on the market, but it offers a refined experience for those who appreciate elegance, comfort, and reliability. If you’re looking for an electric scooter that turns heads while delivering a dependable urban commute, the Chetak might just be your perfect match.
