Bajaj Auto, a trailblazer in India’s burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) landscape, is on the cusp of unveiling an enhanced iteration of its flagship Chetak electric scooter. Since its revival in 2020, the Chetak has been the cornerstone of Bajaj’s EV ambitions, blending retro charm with modern eco-friendly performance to carve out a significant market share. What began as a nostalgic nod to the iconic 1970s model has evolved through multiple variants, differentiated primarily by battery capacities and feature sets. Now, with whispers of a major refresh, the Chetak is poised to reinforce its dominance in the competitive two-wheeler EV segment.
In a classic automotive spy shot scenario, enthusiasts and industry watchers have caught their first unguarded peek at the next-generation Chetak, courtesy of a heavily camouflaged test mule spotted on Indian roads. While Bajaj has yet to issue an official reveal, these images offer tantalizing hints of a design philosophy that honors the scooter’s heritage while injecting contemporary flair. At its core, the silhouette remains faithful to the current model’s elegant, upright profile – a deliberate choice that ensures the Chetak’s unmistakable identity endures.
A Refreshed Rear End with Integrated Lighting and Practical Tweaks
The most eye-catching alterations are concentrated at the rear, where Bajaj appears to have prioritized functionality and aesthetics in equal measure. The existing split LED tail lights have been reimagined as a sleek, unified unit that seamlessly incorporates brake lights and integrated LED turn signals. This not only streamlines the visual appeal but also enhances safety through better visibility. Subtle but noticeable revisions extend to the number plate holder, which sports a more refined mounting for a cleaner look. A new rear tire hugger – a practical addition to shield the wheel from road grime – makes its debut, underscoring Bajaj’s attention to everyday usability. Intriguingly, the charging port’s placement hints at flexibility: it could be tucked away behind a discreet flap at the rear or shifted forward to the apron for easier access, potentially catering to user preferences in urban charging scenarios.
Side and Seating Updates Amid Camouflage Mystery
The test mule’s side panels are shrouded in dense camouflage, making it challenging to discern precise changes. That said, the contours suggest a subtle evolution, possibly with smoother lines or revised paneling to improve aerodynamics or manufacturing efficiency without altering the scooter’s compact footprint. The rear grab rail, a staple for pillion comfort, looks largely unchanged, maintaining its sturdy, ergonomic form.One standout modification is the seat design, which now adopts a noticeably flatter profile. This could translate to improved weight distribution for the rider and passenger, potentially enhancing long-ride comfort and stability – a boon for city commuters who rely on the Chetak for daily errands.
Front Facade: Evolutionary, Not Revolutionary
Up front, familiarity reigns with the LED headlight and daytime running lights (DRLs) mirroring the outgoing model’s setup, preserving that signature premium glow. However, a small but symbolic tweak catches the eye: the embossed Chetak logo within the headlight housing has given way to the spelled-out “Chetak” wordmark, signaling a branding evolution that feels more assertive and modern.The turn indicators, previously housed on the apron for a minimalist vibe, have been relocated to the handlebar ends – a practical shift that aligns with conventional scooter ergonomics and could simplify signaling during tight maneuvers.
Tech and Chassis Shifts: Back to Basics?
Diving into the cockpit, this spied variant appears to forgo some of the premium touches found in higher-end current models. Keyless ignition is absent, and there’s no sign of the crisp TFT display that has become a hallmark of tech-forward EVs. In their place is a redesigned LCD instrument cluster – angular rather than the familiar circular layout – promising essential readouts like speed, range, and battery status in a more straightforward package. The switchgear has received a refresh, likely with improved tactile feedback for intuitive operation. Notably, the distinctive ORVM (outside rearview mirror) stalks, known for their stylish integration, are missing here, possibly indicating a base or mid-spec trim. More intriguingly, the Chetak’s much-lauded single-sided front suspension – a unique selling point across the lineup – seems to have been replaced with conventional twin telescopic forks upfront, paired with twin rear shocks. While not yet confirmed by Bajaj, this chassis reconfiguration could aim to reduce costs, simplify maintenance, or broaden appeal to budget-conscious buyers without sacrificing ride quality.
What Lies Ahead for the Chetak Legacy?
As Bajaj Auto continues to test this evolved Chetak, speculation abounds on its powertrain and performance tweaks. Will it retain the current 4kWh or larger battery options, or introduce fresh chemistries for extended range? Pricing, features, and launch timelines remain under wraps, but the scooter’s enduring popularity – with over 5 lakh units sold to date – suggests this update could propel it further into the heart of India’s EV revolution.
For now, these camouflaged glimpses paint a picture of a Chetak that’s wiser with age: refined, practical, and ready to tackle the electrified roads ahead. Stay tuned for official details as Bajaj peels back the wraps on what could be the next chapter in this electric icon’s storied journey.
