The Bajaj Chetak 3001 feels like déjà vu — that unmistakable Chetak charm from the ’70s, reborn in an age where quiet torque replaces exhaust smoke. This isn’t just nostalgia on two wheels; it’s Bajaj’s bold EV statement — a familiar silhouette carrying the pulse of modern city life. With a 3 kWh battery, 150 km range, and an expected price of ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom), the Chetak 3001 promises to hit that sweet spot between daily practicality and eco-smart commuting when it rolls out by mid-2026.
A Retro-Modern Design
The 3001 manages what most retro EVs struggle with — blending old-school soul with just enough tech flair.
- Dimensions: 1,890 mm long, 740 mm wide, 1,150 mm tall
- Wheelbase: 1,300 mm, ideal for snappy city turns
- Ground clearance: 150 mm — speed breakers won’t ruin your mood
- Kerb weight: 110 kg — feather-light for tight traffic
It keeps the rounded metal body and that signature Chetak curve, now detailed with chrome trim and LED headlamps. Available in colors like Pearl White, Metallic Silver, and a subtle Steel Grey, it looks timelessly elegant. The 12-inch steel wheels with tubeless tires maintain stability, while the 770 mm seat height caters perfectly to shorter riders — comfortable, confident, and convenient.
Simple, Cozy, and Everyday Practical
Slide into the Chetak 3001’s saddle, and it feels instantly familiar — upright bars, wide floorboard, cushioned seat. It’s commuter comfort done right.
- Under-seat storage can hold a half-face helmet or groceries.
- Semi-digital instrument console displays speed, battery percentage, and range.
- Bluetooth connectivity allows call alerts and navigation.
- USB charging port for phones or gadgets.
There’s no over-the-top futuristic overload — just a smart, easy-to-read layout. It’s exactly what a city scooter should be: simple, intuitive, and efficient.
Smooth Electric Power for Urban Life
The Chetak 3001 runs on a 3 kWh lithium-ion battery paired with a 3 kW hub-mounted motor, tuned for quick, silent acceleration.
- Top speed: 60 km/h
- 0–60 km/h: 8 seconds
- Range: Claimed 150 km (real-world 120–130 km)
- Charging cost: ₹0.5–₹1 per km
It’s whisper-quiet but torquey enough for quick overtakes and traffic sprints. The telescopic front forks and twin-shock rear setup absorb rough patches confidently. Ride quality is smooth, NVH levels are near-silent, and balance feels natural — perfect for weaving through autos or carrying a pillion home from college.
Safety and Structure
Bajaj hasn’t skimped on safety, keeping the urban rider and family user in mind.
- Dual disc brakes with CBS (Combined Braking System)
- Side-stand cut-off to prevent accidental starts
- Rear parking sensors and LED tail-lamps for night visibility
- Strong frame, tuned for both city potholes and mild rural paths
It’s not packed with advanced ADAS trickery — but it’s predictable, stable, and robustly built, exactly what most buyers want at this price point.
Charging and Ownership
Charging remains the only limitation. A full charge is expected to take 5–6 hours on a standard plug, with no confirmed fast-charging option yet. However, for city use, overnight charging fits naturally into daily routines.
Ownership costs are where the Chetak 3001 shines:
- Running cost: ₹25–₹30 per full charge (~150 km)
- Warranty: 3-year / unlimited km (expected)
- Service cost: ₹2,000–₹3,000 yearly
- Resale value: estimated 70% after two years
Price and Availability
Expected launch: Mid-2026
- Price: ₹1.10 lakh ex-showroom
- On-road Delhi: ~₹1.20 lakh
- Finance options: EMIs from ₹2,000/month, cashback up to ₹20,000 during festive season
- Availability: Bajaj dealerships and EV partners nationwide
For what it offers — design, reliability, range — it’s a sharp value play against TVS iQube, Ather 450S, and Ola S1 Air.
What Riders Are Saying
Early buzz from test mules and internal previews paints a positive picture. Riders love its simplicity, silent motor, and heritage feel. One Delhi commuter called it, “Chetak’s soul with electric magic.” Critics do point out the lack of fast charging and modest top speed, but Bajaj’s nationwide service network and build quality keep optimism high.
Against the iQube’s modern feel or S1 Pro’s tech stack, the Chetak 3001 scores on affordability and refinement — it’s built for the real India, not just EV enthusiasts.
Quick Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery | 3 kWh lithium-ion |
| Motor | 3 kW hub motor |
| Range | 150 km (claimed), 120–130 km real-world |
| Top Speed | 60 km/h |
| Charging Time | 5–6 hours |
| Brakes | Dual disc with CBS |
| Price | ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Launch | Mid-2026 |
Final Word
The Bajaj Chetak 3001 is the kind of electric scooter that doesn’t try too hard — it just makes sense. It’s not about flashy performance numbers or smartphone bragging rights; it’s about reliability, range, and a nostalgic touch of class.
If you’re a commuter, a student, or a first-time EV buyer wanting that perfect mix of tradition and tech, this could be the one that brings back the Chetak legacy — silently, cleanly, and confidently.
