Reinforcing its presence in the electric scooter segment, Bajaj Auto has launched the Chetak 35 series of electric scooters in India. Unlike the predecessor, the new scooter is underpinned by a new platform and has become the most-loaded Chetak to date. It is available in three variants- 3501, 3502 and 3503. For now, the manufatcurer has revealed just the top two variant prices (3501 and 3502). The range-topping 3501 variant has an ex-showroom price of Rs 1.27 lakh. The mid-spec 3502 costs around 1.20 lakh, ex-sh.
2024 Bajaj Chetak: More About It
Consider the 35 series Chetak as a completely new electric scooter. It is built on a new frame and has a new battery, motor and controller. The design, however, looks like an evolution of the previous Chetak. This isn’t a boring-looking electric scooter. Notable highlights re sleek turn indicators, Blacked-out headlamp surrounds and a slim LED tail light. The wheelbase has gone up resulting in a roomier floor board and around 80mm of additional seating space.
New Chetak Features And Tech
The top-spec Chetak EV- 3501 (You’ll take some time getting used to these names) gets a bunch of interesting features. It comes with a new touchscreen TFT, smartphone connectivity, music control, integrated maps and location-based connected services like Geo-fencing. There is also the option to accept or reject calls with a simple tap. There is a stronger focus on safe, connected riding experience. This variant would stand competent when pitted against feature-rich rivals like Athers and Olas.
Improved Storage and Battery Placement
The battery pack on the new Chetak is a larger 3.5 kWh unit that sits under the floorboard. This placement improves weight distribution and in turn, overall vehicle dynamics. Another advantage is that this mounting frees up as much as 35 liters of under-seat storage! This is enough room for helmets and other essentials. Even the charger cable has its own compartment inside.
If you recollect, people had always hated the previous-generation Chetak for its lack of storage areas. The same proved to be a pain to live with for most owners, as most rivals had ample underseat storage on offer. Bajaj seems to have fixed this concern with the new model.
Specifications And Performance
The scooter now gets a new battery management system that has a strong focus on performance and efficiency. It is said to have a real-world range of 125 km and a claimed range of 153 km. Taking 3 hours and 25 minutes for an 80% refill, charging is faster as well. The vehicle uses a new 950W onboard quick charger.,
The new scooter gets a 4kW permanent magnet electric motor that can make it climv to a top speed of 73 kph and the acceleration is pretty quick as well. The chassis comes with the same monoshock setup at both ends, as before. The front wheel gets a disc brake while the rear does with drum. Two riding modes- Eco and Sports- are also available. There is even a reverse mode, that would help riders to reverse the vehicle without having to push it manually.
Bajaj’s Future Plans And Portfolio
Bajaj plans to diversify its electric two wheeler portfolio in India, to cater to customers of various demographics and interests. They will work towards introducing models that would appeal to people ranging from daily commuters to tech-savvy riders. The key rivals to Bajaj Chetak include models from Ola, Ather and Hero Vida. There are lesser known rivals as well.
