The Bajaj Chetak has a special place in India’s automotive history as one of the most iconic scooters of the late 20th century. Known for its reliability, simple mechanics, and family-friendly design, the Chetak became a household name. Decades later, Bajaj Auto revived the legendary brand with a modern twist: the Bajaj Chetak Electric, an eco-friendly scooter that blends classic retro styling with cutting-edge electric mobility technology.
In this article, we’ll explore everything about the Bajaj Chetak—its design, performance, features, battery technology, charging, pricing, and why it is one of the most exciting choices in the growing Indian electric vehicle (EV) market.
A Legacy Reimagined
The Bajaj Chetak first debuted in the 1970s and quickly became India’s favorite scooter. Today, Bajaj Auto has transformed this heritage model into a futuristic yet nostalgic product. The Chetak Electric retains the classic curves and timeless silhouette of the original Chetak but incorporates premium finishes and modern engineering.
The retro-inspired design is not just about looks—it is a tribute to the scooter that once defined mobility for millions of Indians. By reviving this name, Bajaj Auto has connected two generations: those who grew up with the old Chetak and the new generation seeking sustainable mobility solutions.
Design and Styling
One of the biggest highlights of the Bajaj Chetak Electric is its elegant design. The scooter features:
- A fully metal body for durability and premium feel.
- Iconic retro-inspired curves with a modern LED headlamp.
- Feather-touch switches for a futuristic appeal.
- Stylish alloy wheels with tubeless tires.
- A digital instrument cluster with smart connectivity.
Available in multiple color options, including pastel and metallic shades, the Chetak’s design stands out from typical electric scooters, appealing to both young riders and nostalgic enthusiasts.
Performance and Riding Experience
The Bajaj Chetak Electric is built for smooth, comfortable, and eco-friendly rides. Key performance highlights include:
- 4.08 kW electric motor that provides adequate power for city commuting.
- Top speed of around 70 km/h, making it perfect for urban mobility.
- Two riding modes: Eco (for maximum efficiency) and Sport (for better performance).
- Regenerative braking system that recovers energy while slowing down.
The scooter feels stable on city roads, with responsive acceleration that makes overtaking and traffic navigation hassle-free. Its suspension setup absorbs bumps well, ensuring a comfortable ride even on uneven roads.
Battery and Range
The Bajaj Chetak comes equipped with a fixed lithium-ion battery pack designed for long life and reliability.
- Certified range of up to 108 km per charge (Eco mode).
- Practical real-world range of 85–95 km, depending on riding conditions.
- Battery life rated for up to 70,000 km or 7 years of use.
- IP67-rated battery pack, making it resistant to dust and water.
This makes the scooter suitable for daily commuting, short trips, and urban errands without frequent charging concerns.
Charging Capabilities
Charging the Bajaj Chetak is simple and convenient.
- A standard household 5A socket can be used to recharge.
- It takes around 5 hours for a full charge.
- A quick 25% charge can be achieved in just 1 hour, which is handy for quick top-ups.
Unlike petrol scooters, the Chetak reduces dependency on fuel stations, and owners can conveniently charge it overnight at home.
Technology and Smart Features
Bajaj has equipped the Chetak with smart features that enhance convenience and connectivity.
- Bluetooth-enabled digital instrument cluster with smartphone pairing.
- Real-time battery and range monitoring.
- Geo-fencing and location tracking for security.
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates for system improvements.
- Keyless ignition for modern convenience.
These features make the Bajaj Chetak not just a scooter but a connected EV designed for the digital age.
Safety and Build Quality
Safety has always been a top priority for Bajaj, and the Chetak reflects that commitment.
- Strong all-metal body, unlike most plastic-bodied electric scooters.
- Disc brake at the front and drum brake at the rear for balanced braking.
- Tubeless tires for added reliability.
- Combined Braking System (CBS) for safer stopping.
The metal construction ensures durability, making the scooter resistant to wear and tear over years of use.
Pricing and Variants
The Bajaj Chetak is priced competitively in the Indian EV market. Depending on the city and subsidies available, the price usually ranges between ₹1.3 lakh and ₹1.6 lakh (on-road).
Bajaj offers the scooter in two trims:
- Premium Variant – with stylish paint schemes and advanced features.
- Urbane Variant – a more affordable option with slightly fewer features.
Considering its build quality, heritage branding, and technology, the Bajaj Chetak offers excellent value for money.
Why Choose the Bajaj Chetak?
- Iconic retro design with modern electric technology.
- Premium all-metal body construction.
- Practical range suitable for city commutes.
- Smart features with app connectivity.
- Strong brand legacy and after-sales support.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Chetak Electric Scooter represents a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. With its stylish retro design, advanced EV technology, reliable performance, and strong build quality, it appeals to both young professionals and older generations who remember the classic Chetak.
As India transitions toward sustainable mobility, the Chetak stands out as a premium yet practical electric scooter. It not only honors its legendary past but also embraces the future of eco-friendly commuting.
For anyone considering an electric scooter in 2025, the Bajaj Chetak Electric deserves a spot at the top of the list. It is more than just a scooter—it is a symbol of heritage, progress, and sustainability.