Bajaj Auto has unveiled its latest addition to the electric scooter segment—the Chetak 3001—priced at Rs. 99,990 (ex-showroom). Positioned as an upgraded successor to the Chetak 2903, this model comes with notable improvements including a larger 3.0 kWh battery, extended range of 127 km, significantly increased under-seat storage of 35 liters, and a modern suite of connected features. Built on the Chetak 35 Series platform, the 3001 retains the retro aesthetic of its predecessors while addressing practical demands like ride stability and convenience. Bookings have opened, with deliveries expected to begin by the end of June.
Bajaj’s Aggressive Push in the EV Market
Bajaj Auto continues to expand its electric two-wheeler portfolio with strategic precision, reinforcing its Chetak sub-brand as a premium-yet-accessible option in India’s evolving e-mobility space. The new Chetak 3001, announced just two months after the launch of the higher-end Chetak 3503, is part of Bajaj’s broader push to offer electric scooters across price segments.
The Chetak 3001 is targeted at entry-level consumers seeking enhanced functionality without sacrificing aesthetics or performance. Built on the advanced 35 Series platform, it is priced marginally higher than its predecessor, the Chetak 2903, which retailed at Rs. 98,498. The minimal price increase underscores Bajaj's value-driven strategy in a competitive electric two-wheeler market.
Key Technical Upgrades and Performance
One of the most significant enhancements in the Chetak 3001 is the switch to a floor-mounted 3.0 kWh lithium-ion battery, a modest upgrade over the 2.9 kWh battery in the previous model. This change has increased the scooter’s claimed range to 127 km on a full charge, up from the 121 km of the Chetak 2903.
The battery placement also contributes to better weight distribution and ride dynamics, lowering the center of gravity and improving overall stability. Charging remains efficient with the inclusion of a standard 750W AC charger, which brings the vehicle from 0% to 80% charge in approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes—among the best-in-class for its category.
Enhanced Storage and Build Quality
A notable advantage of the new platform is the expanded under-seat storage. The Chetak 3001 offers a capacious 35-liter boot, a substantial increase from the 21 liters found in the earlier variant. This improvement significantly enhances the scooter’s practicality for daily use, especially in urban settings where carrying capacity can be a key factor in purchase decisions.
True to the Chetak brand’s DNA, the scooter maintains its metal body construction, offering a more robust build than most plastic-bodied competitors. This classic design continues to be a selling point for consumers who appreciate the vintage-meets-modern look.
Smart Features and Connectivity
The Chetak 3001 is far from just a cosmetic or structural upgrade. It introduces a suite of smart features that align with contemporary urban mobility demands. These include:
- Digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity
- Call accept/reject functionality
- Music playback control
- Hill hold assist, reverse light, and auto-flashing stop lights
- Guide-me-home lighting feature for improved night-time visibility
Users seeking an even more feature-rich experience can opt for the TecPac add-on, which unlocks additional digital functionalities and system analytics.
Market Positioning and Availability
Available in three vibrant colors—Red, Blue, and Yellow—the Chetak 3001 is now open for bookings across all Bajaj showrooms. Deliveries are set to commence by the end of June 2025, aligning with the brand’s strategy to capture the early monsoon demand cycle.
By offering premium features at a price just under the Rs. 1 lakh psychological threshold, Bajaj is targeting a sweet spot in the mid-entry electric scooter segment. The Chetak 3001 bridges the gap between affordability and aspiration, without diluting the brand’s quality ethos.
Final Thoughts: Strategic Implications
With the launch of the Chetak 3001, Bajaj Auto is demonstrating not only its manufacturing agility but also its nuanced understanding of consumer sentiment in India’s EV market. Rather than flooding the market with expensive flagships, Bajaj is carefully calibrating its offerings to build long-term brand loyalty among budget-conscious urban commuters.
This release further signals Bajaj's intent to dominate the sub-Rs. 1.5 lakh e-scooter category through smart engineering, modular design platforms, and a layered pricing model. As India’s EV adoption accelerates, such offerings could help Bajaj solidify its position as a leader not just in internal combustion vehicles—but in the future of sustainable mobility.
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