The iconic Bajaj Chetak has reinvented itself yet again. After captivating the hearts of millions over decades, the legendary scooter brand has unveiled its most ambitious electric avatar – the Chetak 3501. This isn’t just another addition to the electric two-wheeler market; it’s a powerful statement of intent from one of India’s most trusted automotive manufacturers.
Launched amid much fanfare in Mumbai yesterday, the new Chetak generated immediate buzz among automobile enthusiasts and eco-conscious commuters alike. The excitement is hardly surprising, considering the impressive 153 km range on a single charge that promises to address the persistent range anxiety plaguing electric vehicle adoption.
Revolutionary Design Meets Heritage
The Chetak 3501 strikes a delicate balance between nostalgia and futurism. Bajaj has wisely retained certain design elements that made the original Chetak a household name. The characteristic round headlamp and smooth flowing lines evoke instant recognition.
Yet, this is unquestionably a scooter built for tomorrow. The sleek LED lighting system wraps elegantly around the front fascia, creating a distinctive light signature visible from afar. Every curve and contour serves a purpose beyond mere aesthetics.
The body panels, crafted from lightweight yet durable materials, contribute to both efficiency and longevity. Available in six premium colorways – Indigo Blue, Hazelnut Brown, Cyber White, Brooklyn Black, Vermillion Red, and Sage Green – the Chetak 3501 offers personalization options for diverse tastes.
Premium Build Quality
Step closer and the attention to detail becomes evident. The fit and finish rival premium European scooters costing twice as much. No visible screws or inconsistent panel gaps mar the clean design.
The seat, upholstered in weather-resistant leatherette, provides comfort during extended rides. Chrome accents appear sparingly but effectively, highlighting key areas without appearing gaudy or excessive.
Performance That Exceeds Expectations
Numbers tell only part of the story, but they’re impressive nonetheless. The 5.4kW electric motor delivers instant torque characteristic of electric propulsion. Acceleration from 0-40 km/h takes just 3.8 seconds – perfect for urban traffic conditions.
The Chetak 3501 doesn’t compromise on top speed either. With a maximum velocity of 85 km/h, it keeps pace with conventional combustion scooters. Three riding modes – Eco, Sport, and Hyper – allow riders to prioritize range or performance based on their needs.
Battery Technology
At the heart of the Chetak 3501 sits a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack featuring advanced thermal management. Bajaj claims this battery retains over 80% capacity even after 1,000 complete charge cycles, translating to approximately seven years of typical usage.
Charging options offer flexibility for various scenarios. The standard home charger replenishes the battery from 0-100% in approximately 4 hours. An optional fast charger cuts this time to just 90 minutes for 80% capacity.
The battery itself is positioned centrally and low in the chassis, contributing to the scooter’s exceptional stability and handling characteristics. IP67 rating ensures weather resistance against dust and water ingress.
Range and Efficiency
The headline 153 km range deserves context. This figure applies to Eco mode under ideal conditions. Real-world testing suggests 135-140 km in mixed riding conditions – still impressive for the segment.
Regenerative braking technology recovers energy during deceleration, feeding it back to the battery. The system adapts intelligently based on riding patterns, maximizing efficiency without sacrificing the natural feel of the ride.
Technology Integration
Modern consumers expect connectivity, and the Chetak 3501 delivers comprehensively. The 7-inch TFT display serves as the command center, providing essential information in a visually appealing interface.
The companion smartphone app enables remote monitoring of charge status, ride statistics, and service alerts. It also facilitates navigation with turn-by-turn directions displayed on the scooter’s screen.
Smart Features
Geofencing capability allows owners to set virtual boundaries, receiving alerts if the scooter moves beyond designated areas. This proves particularly useful for parents lending the scooter to teenage children.
The tamper alert system notifies owners of unauthorized access attempts. If movement is detected while the scooter is locked, the built-in GPS tracking activates automatically.
Over-the-air updates ensure the software remains current throughout the scooter’s lifespan. Bajaj promises quarterly updates, adding new features and refinements based on user feedback.
Comfort and Practicality
Electric mobility must address practical considerations to achieve mainstream acceptance. The Chetak 3501 excels here with thoughtful features enhancing daily usability.
Storage capacity impresses with a 26-liter under-seat compartment easily accommodating a full-face helmet plus additional items. A small front glove box includes a USB charging port for smartphones.
Rider Experience
The ergonomics suit riders of various heights. The seat height of 780mm proves accessible for most Indian adults. The flat floorboard provides ample foot space even for taller riders.
Suspension components deliver a plush ride over typical urban road imperfections. The front telescopic fork offers 100mm travel, while the rear monoshock adjusts automatically based on load.
Braking performance inspires confidence with a front disc and rear drum setup enhanced by a combined braking system. The regenerative braking system works in harmony with conventional friction brakes.
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Pricing and Market Positioning
Bajaj has positioned the Chetak 3501 as a premium offering, yet within reach of aspirational buyers. The price range begins at ₹1.25 lakh for the base variant, extending to ₹1.52 lakh for the fully-loaded model (ex-showroom).
While this exceeds typical ICE scooter prices, the long-term economics favor the Chetak 3501. Operating costs average just ₹0.40 per kilometer – approximately one-fifth that of petrol alternatives.
Ownership Experience
The warranty package includes 3 years/50,000 km coverage for the vehicle and 8 years/80,000 km for the battery pack. Bajaj’s extensive service network provides reassurance even in smaller cities and towns.
Scheduled maintenance requirements are minimal compared to combustion counterparts. With virtually no fluids to change and fewer moving parts, service intervals extend to 12 months or 12,000 km.
Environmental Impact
Beyond performance and features, the ecological benefits merit consideration. Zero tailpipe emissions contribute to cleaner urban air quality. The manufacturing process incorporates sustainability practices, minimizing the carbon footprint.
Bajaj partners with authorized recycling facilities, ensuring proper battery disposal at end-of-life. The company even offers discounts on new purchases when owners return old batteries.
Detailed Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor Type | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor |
| Motor Power | 5.4 kW peak / 3.8 kW continuous |
| Battery Capacity | 3.5 kWh Lithium-ion |
| Range | 153 km (Eco mode) |
| Top Speed | 85 km/h |
| Acceleration | 0-40 km/h in 3.8 seconds |
| Charging Time | 4 hours (standard) / 90 minutes (fast charger, 80%) |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic fork, 100mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock with automatic preload adjustment |
| Front Brake | 240mm disc with CBS |
| Rear Brake | 130mm drum with CBS |
| Tire Size (Front) | 100/80-12 |
| Tire Size (Rear) | 110/80-12 |
| Ground Clearance | 155mm |
| Seat Height | 780mm |
| Underseat Storage | 26 liters |
| Display | 7-inch TFT color display |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, GPS |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 1890mm × 705mm × 1150mm |
| Kerb Weight | 132 kg |
How It Compares
The electric two-wheeler landscape grows increasingly competitive. The Chetak 3501 positions itself confidently against rivals like the Ather 450X, TVS iQube, and Ola S1 Pro.
Where the Ather excels in sportiness and the Ola in raw performance figures, the Chetak 3501 emphasizes balance. It delivers competitive specifications without compromising the refinement and reliability Bajaj customers expect.
Build quality represents perhaps the most significant differentiator. The Chetak 3501 feels built to last – an important consideration given the substantial investment these vehicles represent.
Target Audience
The ideal Chetak 3501 customer values quality over flashiness. They seek practical transportation with minimal environmental impact. They appreciate technology but prioritize reliability over gimmicks.
Urban professionals form the core demographic – individuals commuting 15-20 kilometers daily who can charge conveniently overnight. The secondary market includes environmentally conscious families seeking a second vehicle for errands and short trips.
Early User Feedback
Initial owner responses highlight several consistent themes. The ride quality receives universal praise, particularly the smooth power delivery and silent operation. The real-world range closely matches advertised figures – refreshing in a segment prone to exaggeration.
Minor criticisms center around the app interface’s occasional sluggishness and limited color options for certain variants. Bajaj has acknowledged these concerns and promised refinements in upcoming updates.
Future Roadmap
Company representatives hinted at an expanding Chetak ecosystem. A more affordable variant targeting college students and first-time buyers is reportedly under development for release next year.
The charging infrastructure remains crucial for widespread adoption. Bajaj has committed to installing charging stations across metropolitan areas, beginning with 200 locations in the first phase.
A Worthy Evolution
The Chetak 3501 represents more than just another electric scooter. It carries forward a legacy spanning generations while embracing technological innovation. The thoughtful balance of performance, practicality, and pricing positions it as a compelling option for modern commuters.
Range anxiety – the persistent barrier to electric vehicle adoption – feels largely addressed through the impressive battery capacity and efficiency. The comprehensive warranty package provides additional peace of mind for potential buyers hesitant about emerging technology.
With the Chetak 3501, Bajaj demonstrates that electric mobility needn’t sacrifice the qualities that made their vehicles household names. It’s a worthy evolution of an iconic brand – familiar yet forward-looking, practical yet exciting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the actual range of Bajaj Chetak 3501 in city traffic?
A: In typical urban conditions with moderate traffic, most users report 135-140 kilometers on a single charge.
Q: How much does it cost to fully charge the Chetak 3501?
A: At average domestic electricity rates, a complete charge costs approximately ₹18-22, translating to roughly ₹0.15 per kilometer.
Q: Can I charge the Chetak 3501 using a regular home power outlet?
A: Yes, the standard charger connects to any conventional 5A socket found in Indian homes.
Q: Does the Chetak 3501 perform well on inclines?
A: The motor delivers sufficient torque to handle moderate gradients of up to 15 degrees without significant speed reduction.
Q: How does extreme weather affect battery performance?
A: The thermal management system maintains optimal battery temperature between 20-35°C, minimizing range fluctuations across seasons.
Q: Is the Bajaj Chetak 3501 eligible for government subsidies?
A: Yes, it qualifies for FAME II subsidies where applicable, reducing the effective purchase price.
Q: What happens if the battery is completely drained while riding?
A: The system provides multiple low-charge warnings. If completely depleted, the battery preserves enough power for essential functions while preventing further movement.