The revision in FAME II has made all electric scooter manufacturers rethink their product lines and innovate to make the scooters more affordable. Ather has come up with the 450S, which sports a smaller battery pack while Ola has launched an array of affordable scooters alongside the updated S1 Pro Gen 2.
Now, Bajaj is at it with the Chetak EV, which has been snapped testing in India. The spied vehicle will be a more affordable version of the Chetak, which is currently priced at Rs 1.15 lakh onwards, ex-showroom. Here’s what we know so far about the upcoming Chetak EV.
Bajaj Chetak EV – Design
Looking at the picture, the more affordable version of the Chetak is expected to carry forward the same design as the current vehicle. The flowing timeless design is unique to the Chetak and the pictures do not show any changes to that.
However, what could see a change is the use of plastic panels instead of metal panels, which could help the company save costs. The all-metal body has been the company’s selling point, and a shift could mean that Bajaj is stepping away from what made the scooter unique. This is not confirmed, as we will get more updates closer to the launch.
Bajaj Chetak EV – Battery pack and motor
As per documents filed by Bajaj, the upcoming Chetak EV will use the same 2.9kWh battery pack which will be mated to a new hub-mounted motor. The Chetak’s selling point was how its electric motor was unique and superior compared to hub motors, and now the company has to step away from another USP to keep costs low.
The upcoming Chetal EV claims a range of 108km on a full charge while its claimed top speed is 63kmph as per an approval document filed by Bajaj.
Bajaj Chetak EV – Features and equipment
Going by the pictures, the upcoming more affordable Chetak will get LED lighting, alloy wheels, a disc brake up front, single-sided front suspension, and more. It is unclear if Bajaj will retain the same digital instrument console with phone connectivity on the new Chetak, as its primary competitors offer them.
Speaking of competition, the upcoming Chetak will compete against the Ather 450S, Ola S1 Air, TVS iQube, and other scooters in the segment. Stay tuned as we will bring you more updates as they surface.