Bajaj Chetak 2025 : launched in December 2024, redefines electric scooters with its 35 series, blending retro charm with cutting-edge technology.
Built on a new platform, the Chetak 35 series comprising variants 3501, 3502, and 3503 introduces a 3.5 kWh battery, a 153 km range, and a host of smart features.
With a redesigned chassis, enhanced storage, and a touchscreen TFT display, it’s poised to dominate India’s electric scooter market.
This article explores the Chetak’s evolution, upgrades, pricing, and why it’s a compelling choice for urban riders.
Legacy of the Chetak Name
Bajaj’s Chetak, a household name since the 1970s, transitioned from a petrol icon to an electric marvel in 2020.
The 2025 35 series builds on this legacy, combining nostalgic design with modern EV tech. Launched on December 20, 2024, it reflects Bajaj’s ambition to lead the premium electric scooter segment, leveraging its record 260,000 units sold in FY2025.
From Petrol to Electric
The original Chetak was India’s beloved scooter, known for reliability. The electric revival in 2020 retained its retro silhouette while introducing eco-friendly performance.
The 2025 model evolves further, with a new chassis and advanced features, maintaining the classic look while addressing modern commuting needs. Its metal body and sleek lines evoke nostalgia, appealing to both loyalists and new riders.
Market Momentum
Bajaj’s Chetak has surged in popularity, becoming India’s top-selling electric scooter in December 2024. With 75,999 units sold in the first nine months of FY2024 (up 188% YoY).
The 35 series capitalizes on this growth. Its expanded dealership network and production capacity ensure accessibility, positioning it as a market leader.
- Historic Sales: Over 3 lakh Chetaks sold since 2020, with 28,983 units in March 2025 alone.
- Network Growth: Available at over 200 dealerships, up from just Pune and Bengaluru initially.
- Consumer Trust: Retro-modern design and premium build boost brand confidence.
- Production Scale: New Chennai facility supports increased demand for 2025 models.
Redesigned Styling and Build
The 2025 Chetak retains its retro-inspired design but introduces subtle refinements. Its metal body ensures durability, while sleeker LED tail lamps and new color options like Pista Green and Matte Scarlet Red enhance appeal.
The longer wheelbase and extended seat improve rider comfort, making it a stylish yet practical urban scooter.
Exterior Enhancements
The Chetak 35 series features a premium metal body, LED lighting, and sequential blinkers on the 3501 variant.
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The 25mm longer wheelbase adds stability, and redesigned tail lamps offer a modern touch. Available in vibrant colors like Hazelnut and Indigo Metallic, it balances elegance with functionality for city commuting.
Build Quality
Bajaj’s focus on durability shines through with the Chetak’s monocoque chassis and IP67-rated battery.
The 3501 and 3502 variants use alloy wheels, while the 3503 opts for cost-effective steel wheels. The robust build, paired with a Combined Braking System (CBS), ensures safety and longevity, even in varied weather conditions.
- Metal Body: Offers premium feel and durability compared to plastic rivals.
- LED Lighting: Comprehensive system with sequential blinkers for a modern look.
- Color Variety: Eight options across variants, including Brooklyn Black and Cyber White.
- Chassis Upgrade: Lightweight design improves handling and agility.
Battery and Range Breakthrough
The Chetak 35 series boasts a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering a class-leading 153 km range (IDC-certified).
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Relocated to the floorboard, it lowers the center of gravity for better stability. The 950W onboard charger achieves 0–80% charge in three hours, making it ideal for urban use.
Battery Innovation
The battery’s new floorboard placement enhances weight distribution and frees up 35 liters of under-seat storage.
Enhanced cooling and iFuse technology ensure circuit safety, while the reinforced casing adds durability. The 4.2 kW (5.6 bhp) motor offers smooth acceleration, reaching 73 kmph in Sport mode.
Real-World Performance
The claimed 153 km range translates to about 125 km in real-world conditions, sufficient for city commutes. Eco and Sport modes cater to efficiency or performance needs.
The fast-charging system minimizes downtime, though smaller towns may face charging infrastructure challenges.
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- Extended Range: 153 km IDC range, up from 126 km in previous models.
- Quick Charging: 0–80% in three hours with a 950W onboard charger.
- Motor Efficiency: Lighter 4.2 kW motor with improved cooling for reliability.
- Storage Gain: 35L boot space holds two helmets, addressing past limitations.
Pricing and Variants
The Chetak 35 series starts at ₹1.09 lakh for the 3503, ₹1.20 lakh for the 3502, and ₹1.27 lakh for the 3501 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru).
Subsidies like FAME II may lower costs by ₹20,000–₹50,000, making it competitive with rivals like the TVS iQube.
Variant Breakdown
The 3503 is the entry-level model with a color LCD display, steel wheels, and slower charging. The 3502 offers a 5-inch non-touch TFT and off-board charger.
while the 3501 includes a touchscreen TFT, sequential blinkers, and premium features. All variants share the 3.5 kWh battery and 153 km range.
- Chetak 3503: ₹1.09 lakh, basic features, 63 kmph top speed.
- Chetak 3502: ₹1.20 lakh, mid-spec with non-touch TFT.
- Chetak 3501: ₹1.27 lakh, premium with touchscreen and TecPac options.
- Warranty: 3 years or 50,000 km, with optional extended coverage.
Value Proposition
Priced competitively, the Chetak offers low running costs (electricity and minimal maintenance) and a premium build.
The 3501’s advanced features justify its higher cost, while the 3503 targets budget buyers. Subsidies and Bajaj’s 200+ dealerships enhance accessibility, though service quality varies.
Competitive Landscape
The Chetak 35 series rivals the TVS iQube, Ather Rizta, Ola S1, and Hero Vida V1. Its 153 km range and premium features outshine many, but competitors like the iQube offer higher top speeds (75 kmph). Bajaj’s retro design and storage capacity give it a unique edge.
Key Competitors
The TVS iQube (₹1.07 lakh) offers a 75 km range but faster speeds. The Ather Rizta prioritizes tech but is pricier.
Ola S1 focuses on affordability, while Vida V1 emphasizes safety. The Chetak’s metal body and storage make it a practical choice for families.
- TVS iQube: ₹1.07 lakh, 75 kmph, 75 km range, tech-focused.
- Ather Rizta: Higher price, advanced connectivity, smaller storage.
- Ola S1: Affordable but less premium build quality.
- Hero Vida V1: Safety features, competitive range, less nostalgic appeal.
Market Differentiation
The Chetak’s retro-modern design, 35L boot, and 153 km range set it apart. The 3501’s touchscreen TFT with navigation and music control rivals premium scooters, while the 3503’s ₹1.09 lakh price undercuts many. Bajaj’s brand trust and service network further strengthen its position.
Technical Specifications
The Chetak 35 series features a 4.2 kW motor, 3.5 kWh battery, and a monoshock suspension setup.
The front disc and rear drum brakes, paired with CBS, ensure safe stopping. The redesigned chassis improves handling, while the 950W charger enhances convenience.
Powertrain Details
The 4.2 kW motor delivers 5.6 bhp and 16 Nm, reaching 73 kmph (63 kmph for 3503). The floorboard-mounted battery improves stability, and the belt drive ensures smooth power delivery.
Eco and Sport modes offer flexibility, with consistent performance even at low battery levels.
- Motor Power: 4.2 kW, 5.6 bhp, 16 Nm torque for smooth acceleration.
- Battery: 3.5 kWh, IP67-rated, with enhanced cooling.
- Top Speed: 73 kmph (3501/3502), 63 kmph (3503).
- Modes: Eco and Sport for varied riding needs.
Chassis and Suspension
The lightweight monocoque chassis enhances agility, with a 25mm longer wheelbase for stability. The monoshock suspension at both ends absorbs city bumps.
While the front disc and rear drum brakes provide reliable stopping power. The low center of gravity aids cornering and low-speed maneuvers.
Comfort and Practicality
The Chetak’s 80mm longer seat and roomier floorboard improve rider and pillion comfort. The 35L under-seat storage holds two helmets, a significant upgrade.
Features like reverse mode and a smart key fob enhance usability, making it ideal for daily commutes.
Rider Ergonomics
The upright riding position and low seat height suit varied riders. The extended seat offers better pillion support, while the wider floorboard adds legroom.
The lightweight chassis ensures easy handling in traffic, though long rides may feel less comfortable due to the compact design.
- Seat Length: 80mm longer for improved comfort.
- Floorboard Space: 25mm longer wheelbase adds legroom.
- Storage: 35L boot for helmets, laptops, or groceries.
- Handling: Low center of gravity enhances city maneuverability.
Smart Features
The 3501’s touchscreen TFT offers navigation, music control, and call alerts via the Chetak app. Features like geo-fencing, live tracking, and accident detection (with TecPac) add safety. The 3502 has a non-touch TFT, while the 3503 uses a color LCD for cost savings.
Why Buy the Chetak 2025?
The Chetak 35 series appeals to urban riders seeking style, practicality, and eco-friendly performance.
Its 153 km range, 35L storage, and premium features make it a top contender. Bajaj’s service network and subsidies enhance value, though service quality and charging infrastructure remain concerns.
Key Advantages
The Chetak retro design, long range, and storage capacity suit families and commuters. The 3501’s tech and the 3503’s affordability cater to diverse needs.
Low running costs and a 3-year warranty add appeal, while Bajaj’s market leadership ensures reliability.
- Affordability: 3503 at ₹1.09 lakh, competitive with subsidies.
- Practicality: 35L storage and reverse mode for tight spaces.
- Tech Edge: Touchscreen TFT with navigation and connectivity.
- Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions, low maintenance costs.
Potential Drawbacks
Service issues, like delayed repairs and poor showroom support, frustrate some users. The 153 km range may not suit long-distance riders, and charging infrastructure in smaller cities lags. The 3503’s basic features may disappoint tech-savvy buyers.
New Features and Tech
The 2025 Chetak introduces a touchscreen TFT (3501), 35L storage, and a 3.5 kWh battery. The Chetak app enables live tracking, geo-fencing, and music control (with TecPac).
Reverse mode, self-canceling blinkers, and accident detection elevate safety and convenience, setting a new standard.
Smart Dashboard
The 3501 TFT touchscreen offers navigation, call alerts, and music control, rivaling premium scooters.
The 3502’s non-touch TFT and 3503’s LCD are less advanced but functional. TecPac unlocks features like sequential blinkers and Sport mode, enhancing the riding experience.
- Touchscreen TFT: Navigation, music, and call alerts on 3501.
- TecPac Features: Geo-fencing, live tracking, accident detection.
- Reverse Mode: Eases parking in tight spaces.
- Self-Canceling Blinkers: Adds convenience for city riding.
Safety Enhancements
The CBS, IP67-rated battery, and electronic temperature control ensure safety. TecPac’s accident detection and anti-theft notifications add peace of mind.
The reinforced battery casing and iFuse technology protect against failures, making the Chetak reliable in diverse conditions.
Sustainability and Appeal
The Chetak’s zero-emission powertrain reduces urban pollution, while its efficient battery minimizes production impact.
Targeting eco-conscious commuters and families, its retro design and practical features appeal broadly. Bajaj’s sales success reflects its resonance with modern riders.
Environmental Impact
The electric Chetak eliminates tailpipe emissions, supporting India’s green mobility goals. Its 3.5 kWh battery balances efficiency and performance, reducing energy waste.
Low maintenance and home charging further lower its environmental footprint, appealing to sustainable commuters.
- Zero Emissions: Reduces air pollution in congested cities.
- Efficient Battery: 3.5 kWh pack optimizes energy use.
- Low Maintenance: Fewer parts than ICE scooters, less waste.
- Home Charging: Convenient and eco-friendly power solution.
Target Audience
The Chetak targets young professionals, families, and eco-conscious riders. Its retro styling attracts nostalgia lovers, while the 35L storage and 153 km range suit practical commuters.
The premium 3501 appeals to tech enthusiasts, and the affordable 3503 draws budget buyers.
Launch Timeline and Market Buzz
Launched on December 20, 2024, the Chetak 35 series opened bookings immediately, with 3501 deliveries starting in late December and 3502 in January 2025. Its EICMA 2024 reveal and spy shots generated hype, with posts on X praising its range and storage.
Rollout Plan
Bajaj prioritizes urban markets with charging infrastructure, expanding to smaller cities later. Over 200 dealerships offer test rides, and online bookings via Flipkart boost accessibility. The festive season launch maximized visibility, driving strong initial sales.
- Delivery Schedule: 3501 in December 2024, 3502 in January 2025.
- Dealership Reach: Over 200 outlets nationwide for sales and service.
- Online Sales: Flipkart sold one Chetak every two minutes during Black Friday.
- Festive Timing: December launch capitalized on high consumer spending.
Consumer Sentiment
Posts on X highlight excitement for the 153 km range and 35L boot, with the 3503’s ₹1.09 lakh price earning praise.
However, some users report service issues, like delayed repairs, tempering enthusiasm. The Chetak’s premium features and sales momentum fuel positive buzz.
Market Impact and Future Prospects
The Chetak 35 series strengthens Bajaj’s lead in India’s electric scooter market, challenging rivals with its range and features.
Its success could drive charging infrastructure growth and inspire competitors to enhance storage and tech. Future variants may target longer ranges or premium segments.
Industry Influence
As India’s top-selling electric scooter, the Chetak’s 153 km range and 35L storage set benchmarks. Its affordable 3503 variant pressures rivals to lower prices.
while the 3501’s tech raises expectations. Increased demand could accelerate charging network expansion, benefiting the EV ecosystem.
- Market Leadership: No. 1 in December 2024, with 260,000 units sold in FY2025.
- Price Pressure: 3503’s ₹1.09 lakh challenges competitors’ pricing.
- Tech Standard: Touchscreen TFT and TecPac set a premium benchmark.
- Infrastructure Growth: Rising sales may spur charging station development.
Future Potential
Bajaj’s scalable platform could yield longer-range or sportier Chetaks by 2027. The Chennai plant supports future models, and software updates via TecPac ensure longevity.
If service quality improves, the Chetak could dominate globally, leveraging Bajaj’s export network.
Conclusion of Bajaj Chetak 35 series
Bajaj Chetak 35 series is a shocking upgrade, blending retro charm with modern EV prowess. Its 153 km range, 35L storage, and touchscreen TFT (on 3501) make it a standout for urban commuters.
Priced from ₹1.09 lakh, it offers affordability and premium features, backed by Bajaj’s market dominance. Despite service concerns.
The Chetak’s practicality and eco-friendly performance position it as India’s top electric scooter. For riders seeking style, tech, and value, the 2025 Chetak is an electrifying choice.