Bajaj Auto is gearing up to significantly expand its electric vehicle portfolio with the launch of a new, more affordable variant of its popular Chetak electric scooter. The company has officially announced that this new iteration will be unveiled to the public on January 14. This strategic move is aimed directly at capturing a larger share of the burgeoning entry-level electric scooter market in India.
Design and City-Centric Focus
The upcoming Bajaj Chetak variant is expected to retain the brand's signature neo-retro design theme, which has become a hallmark of the Chetak lineup. This means consumers can anticipate the same clean, rounded aesthetic that evokes a sense of nostalgia while looking modern. However, the focus for this new model will shift decisively towards enhanced practicality for urban commuting.
To achieve this, Bajaj is likely to introduce a more compact design, making the scooter easier to maneuver through congested city traffic. Several visual updates are on the cards, including a new seat design, updated side panels, and a redesigned rear grab handle. The front indicators are expected to be repositioned onto the handlebar cowl, and the rear will feature a newly integrated LED taillight for a refreshed look.
Expected Features and Underpinnings
Underneath its retro-inspired skin, the new Chetak will be built for everyday reliability. Power will come from a hub-mounted electric motor, a common and efficient setup for electric scooters. The suspension system is anticipated to consist of a standard telescopic fork at the front and dual shock absorbers at the rear to handle Indian road conditions.
For wheels and braking, the scooter is likely to roll on 12-inch alloy wheels. The braking setup is expected to be a combination of a disc brake at the front and a drum brake at the rear, offering a balanced mix of stopping power and cost-effectiveness.
Strategic Positioning and Market Rivals
The most crucial aspect of this launch is its aggressive pricing strategy. To make the Chetak accessible to a wider audience, Bajaj Auto has implemented several cost-cutting measures. The feature set will be simplified, focusing on essential functions, and the instrument cluster will be an LCD unit instead of a more expensive full-color TFT display found on premium variants.
This allows Bajaj to position the new Chetak in the highly competitive price range of ₹80,000 to ₹90,000 (ex-showroom). At this price point, it will directly challenge other entry-level electric scooters like the TVS Orbiter and the Vida VX2. This launch marks a pivotal moment for Bajaj Auto, as the Chetak is currently its sole offering in both the general scooter market and the electric two-wheeler segment, and this variant will help it compete in a volume-driven price bracket.
The introduction of an affordable Chetak is a clear signal of Bajaj Auto's commitment to the EV space and its intent to become a major player by offering products across different price segments. The official reveal on January 14 will provide all the final specifications and confirm the exact pricing.
