Bajaj Likely To Introduce Chetak First In Pune And Bangalore

[Update: Bajaj’s All-new Chetak Is Here In Electric Form!]

• Bajaj Auto is all set to take the wraps off its first electric scooter in India on October 16.
• It is likely to be priced around Rs 1 lakh and will go up against the Ather 450.
• Co-developed with Bosch, expect a good balance of performance and range.

Bajaj is all set to take the wraps off its first electric scooter, which is likely to be called the Chetak Chic, on October 16. Now, our sources have revealed that the scooter will be launched in phased manner in Pune and Bengaluru first followed by other major cities later. That said, the details of other cities are still under wraps, but we should get a clearer picture on the 16th.

It makes sound business sense to rollout an electric vehicle in phases as the EV segment as a whole, along with the infrastructure in India, are still in their nascent stages. Moreover, the EV segment isn’t exactly a mass-market space as the products still command a significant premium compared to their petrol-powered counterparts. So, launching a product in a phased manner will help the brand gain greater control over production and supply as it won’t be all about numbers.

Another aspect which helps Bajaj’s cause is the fact that Bengaluru is currently the only city which has witnessed accelerated development in terms of electric vehicle infrastructure. Pune may be a relatively smaller city than Bengaluru, but more importantly, it will offer easier logistics for the brand as its manufacturing plant is nearby. These two cities have a healthy two-wheeler market and the propensity of prospective customers to go green is also higher in these places than other Tier II cities. A phased launch will also give Bajaj leeway to setup swap stations in case the scooter comes with swappable batteries. Interestingly, Revolt and Ather have also decided to go with a phased launch as electric vehicles are heavily dependent on having a sound charging infrastructure.

Expect the Chetak Chic electric scooter to command a price tag of a little over Rs 1 lakh (on-road). When launched, it will go head-to-head with the Ather 450. As for other details and expectations about this upcoming scooter, head here.