Bajaj Auto is preparing to launch an affordable variant of the Chetak electric scooter. The company is actively expanding its electric two-wheeler lineup, with a special focus on the Chetak model. The recently seen prototype of the Chetak e-scooter reveals that the company is developing a more budget-friendly variant. The images clearly show that the prototype of the Chetak e-scooter has undergone a significant change with the inclusion of a hub-mounted electric motor.
In contrast to the current Chetak model, this new variant has the rear wheel completely enclosed within a plastic shroud. However, this affordable model still utilizes a dual-sided swingarm and is being tested with a mid-mounted motor and multi-spoke alloy wheels. It remains to be seen whether the production-ready variant will be the same or if there will be some modifications.
The decision to introduce a more affordable variant of the Chetak is in response to the demand for cost-effective options in the electric vehicle market. The aim of this strategy is to increase sales in the electric vehicle segment while maintaining profitability. It is expected that the price of the new, more affordable version of the Chetak will be less than 1 lakh rupees, while the current variant is priced at 1.15 lakh rupees (ex-showroom).
Bajaj Auto had previously announced its plans to introduce a new electric two-wheeler every year for the next 3-4 years. These new Bajaj electric vehicles, including the Chetak sub-brand, will offer different powertrain architectures to cater to various segments. The company is focusing on strengthening the supply chain and distribution to enhance software, technology, product quality, and customer experience at its dedicated EV production facility in Pune.
Bajaj’s plan for the upcoming fiscal year is to increase its annual EV production capacity from the current 8,000-9,000 units to 50,000 units. The company’s new EV-dedicated Accordi plant in Pune, which requires an investment of 300 crores, is ready to produce 2.50 lakh units annually.
At the beginning of this year, Bajaj introduced a new premium version of the Chetak, available in three color options: satin black, matte granite gray, and matte Caribbean blue. This model features a large color LCD console, a new dual-tone seat, a satin black grab rail, body-colored rearview mirrors, and matching cast-aluminum footrests.
Summery:
– Bajaj Auto is preparing to launch an affordable variant of the Chetak electric scooter.
– The new variant of Chetak will have a significant change with a hub-mounted electric motor.
– It will have a fully enclosed rear wheel inside a plastic shroud, unlike the current model.
– The aim is to increase sales in the electric vehicle market while maintaining profitability.
– The price of the new variant is expected to be less than ₹1 lakh, compared to the current variant priced at ₹1.15 lakh.
– Bajaj Auto plans to launch a new electric vehicle every year for the next 3-4 years.
– The company aims to strengthen the supply chain and distribution for software, technology, and product quality.
– Bajaj plans to increase its annual EV production capacity from 8,000-9,000 units to 50,000 units.
– The new EV-dedicated plant in Pune is ready to produce 2.5 lakh units annually.
– Bajaj recently launched a premium version of the Chetak with new features and color options.
