The Bajaj Chetak is a well-established product in the Indian automobile industry. This original scooter, manufactured by Bajaj Auto, has been a source of trust, an embodiment of fashion and comfort for various numbers of Indians since its start in 1972. Over the years, the Chetak has undergone numerous transformations, but its essence has remained intact. The re-launch of the Chetak as an electric scooter in 2020 signifies Bajaj Auto’s commitment to adapting to the evolving needs of the modern consumer while preserving the scooter’s timeless appeal.
A Glimpse into Bajaj Chetak’s Rich History
The Original Chetak (1972–2006)
The original Bajaj Chetak, first introduced in 1972, quickly became a household name. Named after the legendary horse of Maharana Pratap, the Chetak was designed to be a reliable and robust scooter for Indian families. The engine is a 150cc two-stroke engine producing 7.5BHP at 5500RPM and a torque of 10.8 Nm at 3500RPM, and this way, the engine gives maximum speed of 85km/h. The engine was coupled with a 4-speed manual transmission and a fuel-efficient consumption of 75 km/l, making the Bajaj Chetak one of the best scooter of its time in terms of fuel efficiency.
The Chetak’s popularity soared throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, thanks to its simple design, low maintenance, and affordability. It became the preferred mode of transport for many middle-class Indian families, cementing its status as a cultural icon.
Engine and Performance Evolution (2002–2006)
In 2002, Bajaj introduced a four-stroke engine for the Chetak, marking a significant evolution in its performance and efficiency. This engine had a displacement of 110 cc, providing a smoother and more fuel-efficient ride. While the top speed remained comparable to its earlier models, the four-stroke engine enhanced the scooter’s longevity and reduced emissions.
In spite of innovations, the production of original Chetak was stopped in 2006 because of the increasing need for motorcycles and the newly produced scooters that are more advanced. However, The Chetak, continued to live in the hearts of millions who had experienced its magic over the decades.
The Return of a Legend: Chetak Electric (2020–Present)
Rebirth as an Electric Scooter
In 2020, Bajaj Auto attracted people’s attention by revealing the close comeback of the Chetak—this time as an electric scooter. The move was a testament to Bajaj’s forward-thinking approach, recognizing the need for sustainable urban mobility solutions. The Bajaj Chetak Electric retained the nostalgic design cues of the original but introduced cutting-edge technology that aligned with the demands of modern urban commuters.
The Bajaj Chetak electric scooter is a very sophisticated and has first rate appearance as comes with its fabulous feature like a two-toned seat, body-colored rearview mirrors, a satin black grab rail, and matching pillion footrest castings. Many elements of the scooter, including the headlamp casing, blinkers, and central trim, are now painted black, giving the Chetak Electric a more sophisticated, urban look.
Electric Powertrain and Performance
The Bajaj Chetak Electric is powered by an electric motor that delivers an impressive range and performance for city commuting. With an ARAI-certified range of 108 km on a fully charged battery, the scooter offers a real-world range of around 90 km. This makes it a practical choice for daily commuters who need a reliable and cost-effective mode of transport.
Charging the Chetak Electric is quick and convenient. It takes around 4 hours to reach 100% charge, while 80% can be achieved in just 2.75 hours. The fast-charging capabilities ensure minimal downtime, making the Chetak Electric a hassle-free solution for urban mobility. Additionally, the Chetak can be charged to 25% in just 0.75 hours, providing enough range for short trips if you’re in a rush.
Design and Build Quality
The Chetak Electric is built on a Tubular Steel Under Bone frame, which provides strength and durability. The front suspension consists of a Single-sided Leading Link, while the rear features an Offset Mono Shock, ensuring a smooth and stable ride even on bumpy city roads. The scooter has drum brakes at the both the ends, which, although traditional, offer sufficient braking power for urban use.
In terms of dimensions, the Bajaj Chetak Electric is compact yet comfortable, with a wheelbase of 1230 mm and an overall length of 1770 mm, making it easy to movement in traffic. The premium build quality of the Chetak Electric is evident in its attention to detail, with high-quality materials used throughout the scooter.
Key Features of the 2023 Bajaj Chetak Electric Edition
Upgraded Design and Styling
The Bajaj Chetak Electric of the 2023 Edition carries a number of improvements that help it look and feel better. With its two-tone seat, body-colored mirrors and satin black grab bar, the scooter looks premium and stylish. The blacked-out features such as the headlamps and blinkers with metals add a dash of elegance and modernity to the old design.
These aesthetic upgrades, combined with the scooter’s clean, retro lines, make the Chetak Electric a head-turner on the streets. Bajaj has successfully blended the vintage charm of the original Chetak with the sleek and minimalist design language preferred by today’s urban riders.
Battery and Range
The Chetak Electric’s lithium-ion battery system ensures that it operates for a long time with a high level of efficiency. At 108 km, ARAI has certified the range of the vehicle, and in real-world situations, it is around 90 km, which provides the average person enough distance to drive their car in urban areas without charge.This range can be a significant advantage for those looking to reduce their fuel expenses and carbon footprint. Moreover, the battery is designed to last several years with minimal degradation, ensuring consistent performance over time.
Charging and Convenience
Charging the Chetak Electric is a breeze. The scooter can reach 100% charge in just 4 hours, making it convenient for overnight charging. The option to charge up to 80% in 2.75 hours provides very fast charging by which we can say that this will be very helpful for those who may run out of battery while they are still on the route. Also, the scooter’s 25% charge feature allows the owner to quickly charge the scooter for 0.75 hours in the charger, therefore, they are never more than reach with the power of the scooter.
Chetak Electric vs. Petrol Chetak: A Comparative Analysis
Performance and Efficiency
The original Bajaj Chetak was very reliable and fuel efficiency, as it offered up to 75 km/l of petrol. While this made it one of the most cost-effective scooters of its time, however the Chetak Electric takes efficiency to a whole new level with its electric motor. With minimal running costs, no need for petrol, and significantly reduced maintenance, the electric version outshines its petrol predecessor in terms of cost savings and environmental impact.
Environmental Benefits
The shift from petrol to electric power is also a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions. With zero tailpipe emissions, the Chetak Electric is an environmentally friendly option for urban commuting. In a world where cities are becoming increasingly conscious of their carbon footprint, the Chetak Electric offers a cleaner, greener alternative to traditional petrol-powered scooters.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Chetak has made a remarkable journey from being a symbol of Indian middle-class mobility to becoming a modern, environmentally friendly electric scooter. With the launch of the Chetak Electric, Bajaj has successfully retained the timeless charm of the original Chetak while adapting to the needs of today’s eco-conscious urban commuters. The 2023 edition brings further enhancements, offering a premium, stylish look and impressive performance.
In a world that is rapidly shifting towards electric mobility, the Bajaj Chetak Electric stands out as a perfect blend of heritage and innovation, offering riders a practical, reliable, and sustainable transportation solution. Whether you’re a long-time Chetak fan or a new-age commuter, the Chetak Electric promises to deliver an unparalleled riding experience that is both eco-friendly and nostalgic.