In the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape, the Bajaj Chetak has carved out a significant niche for itself as a popular and affordable electric scooter option in India.
As the industry eagerly awaits the next iteration of this iconic model, Bajaj Auto has announced the launch of the all-new Chetak EV, set to debut on December 20, 2024.
Refined Design, Enhanced Practicality
The upcoming Chetak EV is poised to build upon the success of its predecessor, introducing a range of refinements and improvements. While the overall silhouette is expected to remain largely similar, Bajaj has hinted at subtle design changes to give the scooter a fresh and modern appearance.
One of the key upgrades is the relocation of the battery pack from the under-seat storage area to the floorboard. This strategic move not only frees up more usable space beneath the seat but also allows for the integration of a larger battery pack, potentially enhancing the Chetak’s range.
Bajaj has also promised “notable improvements” in the under-seat storage capacity, addressing a common pain point with the current Chetak model. This increased practicality is sure to appeal to urban commuters who rely on their electric scooters for daily transportation.
Performance and Range Enhancements
The 2024 Bajaj Chetak EV is expected to deliver a more spirited performance compared to the outgoing model. Industry sources suggest that the new scooter will boast a top speed of 73 km/h (45 mph), a significant increase from the current model’s top speed.
In terms of range, the Chetak EV is slated to offer up to 127 km (80 miles) of riding distance on a single charge, a notable improvement over the existing model’s claimed range of 123-137 km. This enhanced range, coupled with the faster charging capabilities, will provide users with greater peace of mind and flexibility in their daily commutes.
Technological Advancements
Bajaj has not only focused on the Chetak’s physical attributes but has also incorporated a host of technological upgrades to keep the scooter competitive in the rapidly evolving electric two-wheeler market.
The most significant addition is the new 5-inch TFT display, which brings a touch of modernity and premium appeal to the Chetak’s user interface. This display is expected to offer features like turn-by-turn navigation, music controls, and smartphone connectivity through Bajaj’s TecPac suite of connected services.
Other notable features include self-canceling turn indicators, electronic locks, and the option to add hill hold control and reverse mode functionality through the TecPac package.
Pricing and Availability
Bajaj has not yet officially revealed the pricing for the 2024 Chetak EV, but industry experts anticipate a slight increase over the current model’s price range of ₹96,000 to ₹1.29 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
The next-generation Chetak is slated to hit the market in the latter half of December 2024, with Bajaj initially focusing on major urban centers before expanding the availability to tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
Bajaj Chetak EV : Raising the Bar in the Electric Scooter Segment
The upcoming Bajaj Chetak EV represents a significant step forward for the brand, as it seeks to solidify its position in the rapidly evolving electric two-wheeler market. By addressing key areas of improvement, such as practicality, performance, and technology, Bajaj is poised to offer a more compelling and well-rounded electric scooter experience to its customers.
As the electric vehicle revolution continues to gain momentum in India, the 2024 Chetak EV is set to play a crucial role in driving adoption and setting new benchmarks for affordability, efficiency, and user-centric features in the electric scooter segment.
With its blend of design refinements, enhanced capabilities, and Bajaj’s trusted brand reputation, the next-generation Chetak is primed to cement its status as a leading contender in the Indian electric mobility landscape.