Bajaj Chetak 35 Series: A Detailed Look at India’s Latest Electric Scooter
Bajaj Auto has launched the Chetak 35 Series, its latest electric scooter offering in India. This launch is generating significant buzz within the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market and is expected to be a key competitor to other popular electric scooters available in India. The new series boasts improved features, increased storage capacity, and enhanced comfort, aiming to attract a wider range of consumers.
Enhanced Design and Comfort
The most significant upgrade in the Chetak 35 Series is the extended wheelbase and seat length. This design change translates to substantially more legroom and knee space, enhancing rider comfort, especially during longer commutes. The underseat storage has also received a major boost, now offering a generous 35-liter capacity. The seat length has been increased by a notable 80mm.
Powertrain and Performance
The Chetak 35 Series is powered by a 4kW motor, fueled by a 3.5 kWh battery. This setup provides a claimed range of 153 km on a single charge, with a top speed of 73 km/h. The battery can be recharged from 0% to 80% within a convenient 3-hour timeframe, thanks to the integrated 950-watt onboard charger.
Smart Features and Technology
Bajaj has incorporated a range of smart features in the new Chetak. The inclusion of a 5-inch touchscreen digital display makes accessing crucial information such as speed, battery status, and navigation effortless. Furthermore, the scooter integrates advanced connectivity features including integrated navigation, call management, music control, and document storage. This smart technology enhances both convenience and safety for the rider.
Safety Features and Modernization
Safety is another area where the Chetak 35 Series excels. The scooter incorporates several safety features such as geo-fencing, theft alerts, accident detection, and overspeed alerts. The traditional mechanical switches have been upgraded to modern tactile switches, reflecting a commitment to both function and modern design.
Price and Availability
The Bajaj Chetak 35 Series is available in two variants initially, the Chetak 3501 and the Chetak 3502. The Chetak 3501 is priced at ₹1.27 lakh, while the Chetak 3502 is priced at ₹1.20 lakh (ex-showroom). These prices position the scooter competitively in the electric scooter market. These scooters are available for purchase on major online marketplaces such as Amazon and Flipkart. Deliveries are expected to commence later this month for the 3501 variant and in January 2025 for the 3502 variant. A third variant, the Chetak 3503, is expected to launch later as part of the series.
Manufacturing and Impact
The Chetak 35 Series is manufactured at Bajaj Auto’s Akurdi plant in Pune, underscoring the company’s commitment to domestic manufacturing. The legacy of the original Chetak scooter is honored through this new model’s production location, further building the brand’s reputation and legacy in India. This launch demonstrates Bajaj Auto’s commitment to innovation in the EV sector and signifies its contribution to the country’s sustainable mobility goals.