The Electric Vehicle (EV) revolution is in full swing in India, with two-wheelers like scooters reigning supreme. According to some estimates, approximately 15 million electric two-wheelers are sold in India in a year.
Among the leading players in the electric scooter segment is the Bajaj Chetak. The brand has made a significant impact with its latest offerings, the Chetak 3501 and Chetak 3502. These models are strong contenders for the best EV scooter in India as they are stylish, and powerful, as well as offer great value for money.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the features and pricing of the Chetak 3501 and 3502, along with key factors to consider when choosing the best EV scooter in India.
Why Choose an EV Scooter?
Before discussing the specifics of the best EV scooter in India, let’s understand why electric scooters are becoming the go-to choice for commuters:
- Cost Efficiency: EVs are cheaper to run compared to petrol scooters due to lower fuel and maintenance costs.
- Environmental Benefits: Zero emissions contribute to a cleaner environment.
- Government Incentives: Various state and central subsidies make EVs more affordable.
- Convenience: With home charging options, the best EV scooter in India can help users avoid frequent petrol station visits.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the Chetak 3501 and 3502.
Chetak 3501 and 3502: Key Features
Both the Chetak 3501 and 3502 offer a host of advanced features that set them apart in the electric scooter market.
Bajaj Chetak 3501
Performance & Battery
- Range: The Chetak 3501 and 3502 boast an impressive range of up to 153 km (ARAI-certified). This ensures riders can travel long distances on a single charge, making these scooters ideal for daily commutes as well as extended rides. The longer range also helps reduce range anxiety, a common concern among EV users.
- Top Speed: With a top speed of 73 km/h, these scooters offer a balance between efficiency and performance. This speed is suitable for city commuting, ensuring smooth navigation through traffic while adhering to speed limits on urban roads.
- Battery Capacity: Both models come equipped with a 3.5 kWh battery, providing sufficient power for extended usage. The battery is designed for longevity and consistent performance.
- Charging Time: The Chetak 3501 charges from 0-80% in 3 hours, whereas the Chetak 3502 takes 3 hours 25 minutes. This quick charging feature ensures minimal downtime. You as a user can thus get back on the road swiftly after a recharge.
- Water Resistance: With IP67-rated water resistance, these scooters are built to withstand different weather conditions. Worried about rain or water splashes? The Chetak 3501 and 3502 ensure reliable operation in every environment.
Build & Design
- Metal Body: The Chetak 3501 and 3502 feature a solid steel body, offering durability and enhanced protection. Unlike plastic-bodied scooters, the metal frame provides better stability, safety, and a premium feel.
- Colours:
- Chetak 3501 is available in Brooklyn Black, Hazelnut, Indigo Metallic, Matte Scarlet Red, and Pista Green, offering a range of stylish choices.
- Chetak 3502 is available in Brooklyn Black, Moon White, Matte Coarse Grey, and Indigo Metallic, catering to users who prefer classic and modern tones.
Braking & Safety
- Front Brake: The scooters come with a disc brake in the front, providing efficient stopping power and enhanced control, especially during sudden braking scenarios.
- Rear Brake: A drum brake at the rear complements the front disc brake, ensuring a balanced and smooth braking experience.
- Auto Hazard Light: In case of emergency braking, the auto hazard light is activated to alert nearby vehicles.
- Reverse Mode: The reverse mode makes manoeuvring in tight spaces easy, allowing users to back up effortlessly in parking lots or congested areas.
Bajaj Chetak 3502
Technology & Smart Features
- TFT Display: The Chetak 3501 features a touch-enabled 5.5”h TFT display, while the Chetak 3502 comes with a standard TFT screen. This display offers clear visibility of riding statistics and navigation assistance.
- App Connectivity: The scooters support Android and iOS connectivity, allowing users to track vehicle data, battery status, and security features via a smartphone app.
- Navigation: Users can unlock navigation assistance with a lifetime connectivity add-on, ensuring a seamless and guided riding experience.
- Over-Speed Alert & Accident Detection (TecPac): The scooters provide alerts when exceeding a predefined speed limit and come with accident detection features.
- Geo-Fencing & Remote Immobilisation (TecPac): These features enable users to set virtual boundaries for their scooter and remotely immobilise it in case of theft or unauthorised movement.
- Trip Data & Analytics: The app provides detailed trip analytics, helping users optimise their riding patterns and monitor performance.
- Music Control (TecPac): Users can control music playback with additional ride mode features, enhancing the riding experience.
- Hill Hold & Sequential Blinkers (TecPac): The hill hold feature prevents the scooter from rolling back on an incline. Further, the sequential blinkers in Chetak 3501 add a stylish and modern touch to signalling.
- Guide-Me-Home Lights (TecPac): This feature ensures better visibility when parking or walking away from the scooter at night, providing added convenience and safety.
Warranty & Support
- Standard Warranty: Both models come with a 3-year warranty or 50,000 km coverage, ensuring peace of mind for users.
- Extended Warranty: Riders can opt for an extended warranty of up to 5 years or 70,000 km, further securing their investment.
- 24×7 Roadside Assistance: The scooters come with round-the-clock roadside assistance, ensuring help is available in case of breakdowns or emergencies.
Both the Chetak 3501 and 3502 offer a host of advanced features that set them apart in the electric scooter market.
Pricing of Chetak 3501 and 3502
The exact pricing of the best EV scooter in India varies depending on the region and dealership offers. However, the effective ex-showroom price of these models starts at competitive rates. The Chetak 3501 is available at prices starting from ₹1,27,243 and Chetak 3502 starts at ₹1,19,999. In addition, Bajaj offers flexible financing options to buy the best EV scooter in India.
Choosing Between Chetak 3501 and 3502- Your Guide to Buy the Best EV Scooter in India
While both models share many core features, here are some key differences:
- Chetak 3501 comes with a touch-enabled TFT display and supports on-board charging. On the other hand, the Chetak 3502 has a standard TFT display and supports off-board charging.
- The charging time for 3502 is slightly longer than 3501.
- Colour options differ slightly between the two models.
- Chetak 3501 offers some additional features like sequential blinkers and music control in the TecPac version.
Experience the Future of Mobility with the Best EV Scooter in India
With government incentives, reduced running costs, and increasing charging infrastructure, there has never been a better time to switch to an electric scooter. In fact, it is estimated that the EV scooter market may reach 22 million units by the year 2031.
Whether you choose the Chetak 3501 or Chetak 3502, you can get your hands on the best EV scooter in India that has a stylish design, long-range capabilities, smart connectivity, and durable build.
