EXCLUSIVE: Is This The More Affordable Bajaj Electric Scooter?

A new electric scooter has been spotted testing in Pune. It is most likely a cost-effective stablemate of the Bajaj Chetak. One of the reasons why we think so is that it has been spied with a couple of TC number plate-equipped (temporarily registered) Chetaks – these are registered so by the OEM for testing purposes. The e-scooter looks visually smaller than its premium sibling. 

According to our source, the scooter was struggling to exceed 40-50kmph on an open highway. If that is indeed true, it is going to be a relatively affordable electric scooter from Bajaj. We think it will be as affordable as about Rs 80,000 (ex-showroom). Now here’s why.

Currently, the Bajaj Chetak 2903 - the cheapest Chetak - is priced at Rs 95,998 (ex-showroom). Considering the probability of subsidies likely being halved from April 2025, and will eventually be phased out, the current entry-level Chetak’s price could reach close to Rs 1,00,000 around the end of this year. If and when that happens, Bajaj will be left with nothing in the affordable electric scooter space as one lakh Rupees is a fairly large psychological barrier for buying a scooter. The spotted electric scooter here could be the brand’s saviour in the segment. Hence, we expect it to be launched soon, probably in about a year or so. Let’s get to what the scooter gets, irrespective of what it is. 

First and foremost, the looks. It is highly likely that the scooter has thick padding underneath the camoflague wrap to disguise the scooter’s true styling. Filtering that out would give it quite a small visual footprint. This is also evident with the small-ish floorboard that can barely accommodate the rider’s feet. That said, the front wheel looks like it’s a 12-inch unit, with a unique 3-spoke design. Mounted on the wheel is a disc brake, which should add to the ‘premium appeal’ of the scooter. 

Moving to the rear wheel, it has a hub-mounted motor. Considering the scooter’s speculated top speed, we can expect it to have about a 1.5kW motor. The bulk of body work could allow space for a rather big battery pack which can result in a long range. However, there are chances that the space could be used to offer increased storage for consumers. But, your guess is as good as ours here. Other equipment visible on the scooter is a telescopic fork with covers, dual rear shocks, a pillion grab rail, an apron hook, and an LED headlight and tail light. 

All of this and its expected price should put it squarely against the likes of the Ola S1 X, and the Okinawa Praise Pro.