The Bajaj Chetak 2025, launched in December 2024, redefines electric scooters in India with its iconic retro design, class-leading 155 km range, and budget-friendly price starting at ₹99,990 (ex-showroom). Blending affordability, style, and modern tech, the Chetak 35 series (3501, 3502, 3503) and Chetak 3001 offer sustainable mobility for urban commuters and eco-conscious riders.
this scooter competes with the TVS iQube and Ola S1 Pro, delivering premium features like a TFT touchscreen, hill hold assist, and a robust metal body. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore its design, performance, range, features, and why it’s a top pick for Indian buyers. Let’s dive into the Bajaj Chetak 2025’s electrifying appeal
Table of Contents
Timeless Design with Modern Flair
The Bajaj Chetak 2025 retains its iconic retro charm, inspired by the classic Chetak, with a modern twist. Its all-metal monocoque chassis, sweeping curves, and round LED headlamp with DRLs evoke nostalgia while ensuring durability. Measuring 1,894 mm long, 725 mm wide, and 1,280 mm tall with a 160 mm ground clearance, it’s compact yet sturdy for Indian roads. The IP67-rated body resists dust and water, ideal for monsoons in Mumbai. Available in vibrant colors like Pista Green, Indigo Metallic, Scarlet Red, Brooklyn Black, and Cyber White, it outshines the Ola S1 Pro’s plainer palette. The 12-inch alloy wheels and dark grey trims (replacing brushed aluminum) add a sleek, contemporary edge, though some users note the seat feels small for taller riders.
The 35L under-seat storage, the largest in its class, fits a helmet, laptop, or groceries, surpassing the TVS iQube’s 32L boot. The flat floorboard and retractable bag hook enhance practicality for daily commutes in Delhi. The premium 3501 variant features a single-piece seat and metallic grey accents, while the base 3503 opts for a simpler finish. Compared to the Ather 450X’s angular design, the Chetak’s curvy silhouette blends heritage and style, making it a head-turner for young professionals and families.
Efficient Performance and Smooth Handling
The Chetak 2025 is powered by a 4.2 kW (peak) electric motor delivering 27 Nm of torque, paired with a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery in the 35 series (3.0 kWh in 3001). It achieves a top speed of 73 km/h (3501/3502) or 63 km/h (3503/3001), ideal for city traffic but limiting for highway overtakes compared to the Ola S1 Pro’s 125 km/h. The Eco and Sport modes adjust throttle response, with an intelligent system switching to Sport when the throttle exceeds 85% in Eco mode, ensuring seamless power delivery. The reverse mode and tight turning radius make parking in tight Bengaluru lanes effortless.
The tubular steel frame and floorboard-mounted battery lower the center of gravity, offering stability at high speeds. The front single-sided leading link and rear monoshock suspension absorb potholes well, though the 3503’s drum brakes lack the 3501’s front disc brake bite. The Combined Braking System (CBS) enhances stopping power, but the absence of ABS is a drawback compared to the Ather 450X. With a 134 kg kerb weight and 760 mm seat height, it’s manageable for women and new riders. For daily commuters, the Chetak delivers smooth, reliable performance with maintenance costs of ~₹2,500–3,500/year.
Class-Leading Range and Charging
The Chetak 2025 shines with an IDC-claimed range of 155 km (3501/3503) or 127 km (3001), with real-world figures of ~100–120 km in mixed conditions, outpacing the TVS iQube’s 94–123 km. The 3.5 kWh battery (3501/3503) charges from 0–80% in 3 hours 25 minutes using a 950W onboard charger, while the 3001’s 3.0 kWh pack takes 3 hours 50 minutes with a 750W charger. At ₹6.47/kWh, a full charge costs ~₹20–25, saving ~₹30,000/year compared to a 50 km/l petrol scooter at ₹100/liter. Cold weather may reduce range by 10–15%, but sunny conditions yield closer to 130 km.
The floorboard battery placement frees up storage, unlike older models, and supports urban commuters in Chennai or rural riders with sparse charging stations. Compared to the Ola S1 Pro’s 176–242 km range, the Chetak’s range is practical for most daily needs, and its faster charging time beats the Ola’s 6 hours. With Bajaj’s 3,800+ service centers, battery maintenance is hassle-free, making the Chetak a cost-effective choice.
Smart Features for Connectivity
The Chetak 2025 is packed with tech, especially in the 3501 variant. The 5-inch TFT touchscreen (3501) supports navigation, call/music controls, and SMS alerts via the Chetak app (Android/iOS). The 3502 features a color TFT without full navigation, while the 3503 has a reverse-color LCD. The TecPac (₹4,000) unlocks advanced features like live tracking, geo-fencing, over-speed alerts, and accident detection. Standard features include:
- Hill Hold Assist: Prevents rollback on slopes.
- Keyless Access: Unlock/start via a sleek fob.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Music/call controls (3501/3502).
- LED Lighting: Headlamps, DRLs, and sequential indicators.
The 35L storage and USB charger enhance practicality, though the 3503 misses the onboard charger and touchscreen. Compared to the Ather 450X’s 7-inch display, the Chetak’s interface is user-friendly but less vibrant. For tech-savvy riders in Hyderabad, the 3501’s connectivity elevates daily commutes, though some users report app glitches with the TecPac.
Top-Notch Safety and Build
Safety is a highlight, with the Chetak’s all-metal body and IP67 rating ensuring durability on rough roads. The 3501 features a front disc brake, while the 3503/3001 use drum brakes with CBS for balanced stopping. Standard safety features include hill hold, reverse mode, and anti-theft alerts. The 3501’s collision detection triggers emergency notifications, a feature absent in the Ola S1 X. The 160 mm ground clearance handles urban speed bumps, though rural gravel may challenge smaller wheels. Bajaj’s 3-year/50,000 km warranty (extendable to 5 years/70,000 km) adds peace of mind, though some users report inconsistent service quality.
Pricing and Financing
The Chetak 2025 starts at ₹99,990 (3001), ₹1.10 lakh (3503), ₹1.20 lakh (3502), and ₹1.27 lakh (3501) ex-showroom, with on-road prices in Delhi ranging from ₹1.05–₹1.35 lakh. Festive offers include ₹5,000 cashback or free accessories worth ₹10,000, subject to availability. EMIs start at ₹2,718/month (36 months, 11.99% interest) via Bajaj Finserv, with zero down payment options. Deliveries take 1–8 weeks, with high-demand variants facing delays. Bookings are open on chetak.com, Amazon, and 3,800+ dealerships.
Competitive Edge
The Chetak 2025 rivals the TVS iQube (₹94,434, 94–123 km), Ola S1 Pro (₹1.16 lakh, 176–242 km), and Ather 450X (₹1.49 lakh, 116 km). Its 155 km range and 35L storage outshine the iQube, while the ₹99,990 price undercuts the Ola’s premium tag. The Ather’s larger display and ABS are advantages, but the Chetak’s metal body and lower maintenance costs (~₹2,500/year) offer better value. The lack of ABS and limited top speed (63–73 km/h) are drawbacks, but Bajaj’s service network ensures reliability.
Why It’s Perfect for Indian Buyers
The Chetak 2025 is tailored for India’s urban and semi-urban needs. Its 155 km range and ~₹25/charge cost suit long commutes in Kolkata or rural rides with limited charging. The retro design and vibrant colors appeal to young riders, while the 35L storage and flat floorboard cater to families and gig workers. The IP67 rating handles monsoons, and smart features like the TFT display and app connectivity enhance urban lifestyles. At ₹99,990 with low EMIs, it’s an affordable alternative to petrol scooters like the Honda Activa, though a higher top speed would boost highway appeal. Bajaj’s trusted service makes it a reliable choice.
Final Verdict
The Bajaj Chetak 2025, starting at ₹99,990, is a stellar electric scooter blending retro charm, affordability, and innovation. Its 155 km range, 35L storage, and smart features like a TFT touchscreen and hill hold assist outshine rivals like the TVS iQube and Ola S1 Pro. The robust metal body, IP67 rating, and low running costs (~₹25/charge) ensure value, though the lack of ABS and 63–73 km/h top speed are minor cons. For eco-conscious commuters, students, and families seeking style and savings, the Chetak 2025 is a top pick. Book now on chetak.com or Amazon to ride this electric icon
Important Note
The ₹99,990–₹1.27 lakh (ex-showroom) pricing and ₹2,718/month EMI for the Bajaj Chetak 2025 are based on December 2024 data, with on-road prices varying (e.g., ₹1.05–₹1.35 lakh in Delhi). The 127–155 km range is IDC-claimed; real-world figures are ~100–120 km. Festive offers, including ₹5,000 cashback or free accessories, are subject to availability. Deliveries take 1–8 weeks, with potential delays for high-demand variants. Verify details at www.chetak.com, Amazon, or Bajaj dealerships.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is based on industry sources, Bajaj announcements, and user feedback as of August 2025. Actual specifications, pricing, and features may vary by region, dealer, or upon official updates. Always confirm details with official Bajaj sources or authorized dealerships before purchasing. The author and publisher are not responsible for discrepancies or changes in pricing, availability, or specifications.
