Bajaj Chetak EV Review: Piaggio Vespa Style With A Modern Electric-heart The Chetak used to be a buzzword for urban mobility in India.
Decades later, Bajaj has resurrected the iconic moniker in an all-new electric form — the Chetak EV.
Retro, solid build and practical electric performance… the Chetak EV promises “yesterday and tomorrow presented in a form that is custom made for the ages.
But does it live up to expectations in a world crowded with new-age electric scooters? Let’s take a closer look.
Design A Nod to the Past, a Future Built In Michael Blast gave the 1970s-inspired Superstore scooter its ogle-worthy curves
The first thing that strikes you about the Chetak EV is how timeless it is.
Bajaj have done a good job of keeping the retro looking scooter’s classic lines, rounded panels and elegant proportion.
The feel too is premium thanks to its full metal body — a rarity in a segment dominated by plastic-bodied adversaries.
Its LED headlamp with a horseshoe-shaped DRL, stream flowing side panels and signature Chetak badging lends it a classy appeal.
It comes in a series of smart colors, and looks both retro and futuristic in the same moment, which is great for anyone wanting style without flash.
Performance and Range
The Chetak EV derives its power from a 3.8 kW electric motor mated to a 3 kWh battery pack.
The engine delivers some 16 Nm, enough for a smooth acceleration in the city.
The scooter feels well put together and quiet on the road, with instant torque available off the line that will have you pulling away with gusto — ideal for swift overtakes and saving on the gap between oncoming traffic.
The Chetak EV states a real-world range of 90-100 km on a full charge in Eco mode, though Sport mode dials back the range a bit for sharper performance.
It takes around 4 to 5 hours when charged from a regular 5A socket, a good time for an overnight top-up.
Features and Comfort
The cockpit of Chetak EV comes clean looking and functional.
A digital instrument cluster shows vital info such as battery status, range and ride mode.
It offers Bluetooth capabilities for the receipt of notifications and ride stats from a mobile app.
The practicality is complemented by keyless start, reverse assist and regenerative braking.
The underseat storage can take small bags or a half face helmet and there is also a glovebox offering more utility and even a bag hook.
The ride quality is plush enough, as the trailing-link front suspension and nicely tuned rear monoshock both iron out bumps effectively.
Pros
High-end build: The all metallic body and heavy build makes the Chetak feel firmly put together.
Stylish Design: With a classic design and some modern flourishes, the Chetak looks cool without grabbing too much attention.
Super smooth and quiet ride: Instant torque and muted power delivery make city rides pleasant.
Good real-world range: Practical daily range of 90-100 km.
Low maintenance: With less moving parts, maintenance and running costs are lower when compared with petrol scooters.
Cons
Higher price: The Chetak EV costs more than many other electric scooters with comparable range and horsepower.
Scant charging infrastructure: Unless you’re in a major city, you may struggle to find public charging stations.
Low-key performance: It’s OK around town but enthusiasts will find it dull at higher speeds.
Boot space could be better: Underseat storage isn’t as generous as some rivals.
Availability issues: Sales network of Chetak EV is still being built, so it could have limited availability in smaller towns.
Bajaj Chetak EV: Final Word
Bajaj Chetak EV is a mix of timeless design, robust build and uncomplicated electric performance.
It’s the best electric scooter for riders who need a sturdier, more powerful scooter for daily urban commuting and want a little extra invested in style.
It has a few quirks, and it may not be the fastest, or the best value, but with its charm and practical nature, the Chetak is one of the most appealing electric scooters available.
If you are ready to join the electric revolution/Not wishing to look the same as all the rest/The clock ticks (ah-uh), your time is running out and about/The Chetak EV belongs on your shortlist.