In the bustling streets of urban India, a quiet revolution is underway. The familiar roar of petrol engines is gradually being replaced by the subtle hum of electric motors. Leading this transformation is a name deeply rooted in India’s transportation history – Bajaj. The company, once famous for its iconic Chetak scooter, has reimagined itself for the 21st century with the launch of the Bajaj Chetak 3501 Electric Scooter. This isn’t just another addition to the growing electric two-wheeler market; it’s a bold statement from one of India’s most trusted vehicle manufacturers.
As cities become more congested and air quality concerns rise, electric vehicles (EVs) are emerging as a compelling alternative to traditional petrol-powered options. But is the Bajaj Chetak 3501 the right choice for you? This comprehensive review dives into its design, performance, and real-world usability to help you decide if this scooter aligns with your transportation needs.
The Evolution of an Icon
From Heritage to Modernity
The original Bajaj Chetak wasn’t just a scooter; it was a cultural phenomenon. Produced from 1972 to 2006, the petrol-powered Chetak became a symbol of reliability and family transportation. Named after Maharana Pratap’s legendary horse, it was a prized possession, often passed down through generations.
When Bajaj revived the Chetak name for its electric scooter line in 2019, it wasn’t just cashing in on nostalgia. It was bridging India’s vehicular past with its future. The Chetak 3501 represents the third generation of this electric revival, combining lessons from earlier models with cutting-edge technology.
Design Philosophy: Respectful Innovation
The Chetak 3501’s design pays homage to its heritage while embracing modernity. Its rounded body panels and flowing lines echo the classic Chetak silhouette, but beneath the familiar exterior lies state-of-the-art technology.
Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, explains, “We wanted to honor the legacy while creating something forward-looking. The 3501 isn’t a recreation of the past; it’s our vision of how that heritage evolves into the future.”
Key design highlights include:
- A round LED headlamp, a modern twist on the classic design.
- Metal body panels for durability and a premium feel.
- A seamless blend of retro aesthetics with contemporary features.
Technical Specifications and Performance
Power and Range
The Chetak 3501 is powered by a brushless DC motor that delivers 4.2 kW of peak power (5.6 horsepower), with a top speed of 73 km/h (45 mph). While these figures may not thrill speed enthusiasts, they are ideal for urban commuting.
The scooter’s 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery offers a claimed range of 126 km (78 miles) in Eco mode and 95 km (59 miles) in Sport mode. This represents a 35% improvement over previous models, addressing the common concern of range anxiety.
Charging Infrastructure and Times
Charging the Chetak 3501 is convenient:
- A full charge takes approximately 5 hours using a standard 5-amp domestic socket.
- A quick-charge feature allows a 25% to 80% charge in under 2 hours.
Bajaj has also expanded its network of charging stations in major cities, with users able to locate and reserve charging slots via the Bajaj Chetak app.
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Ride Quality and Handling
The Chetak 3501 offers a comfortable and stable ride, thanks to its rigid frame and well-tuned suspension. Key features include:
- A trailing link front suspension and monoshock rear absorber for smooth handling.
- A combined braking system (CBS) for enhanced safety.
- A low center of gravity due to the floor-mounted battery, ensuring stability.
The scooter weighs 118 kg (260 lbs), making it slightly heavier than petrol counterparts but lighter than many electric alternatives.
Smart Features and Technology Integration
The Chetak 3501 is packed with tech-savvy features:
- A 7-inch full-color TFT display for real-time information.
- Connectivity with the Bajaj Chetak app for remote monitoring, trip planning, and service reminders.
- Two primary riding modes (Eco and Sport) and a customizable mode for personalized settings.
- Over-the-air software updates to keep the scooter up-to-date.
Practicality and Everyday Usage
The Chetak 3501 is designed for convenience:
- Storage: 18 liters of under-seat storage and a front glove compartment with a USB charging port.
- Comfort: A spacious, ergonomic seat and accessible seat height of 780mm.
- Weather Protection: Durable metal body panels and splash protection for urban conditions.
Economic Considerations
Initial Investment vs. Long-term Savings
Priced at ₹1,52,000 (approximately $1,850), the Chetak 3501 sits in the premium segment. However, its operating costs are significantly lower than petrol scooters:
- Fuel Savings: Operating costs are approximately ₹0.70 per km, compared to ₹2.20-₹2.50 for petrol scooters.
- Maintenance Savings: Fewer service requirements mean annual savings of ₹3,000-₹4,000.
The battery comes with a 5-year/50,000 km warranty, and replacement costs are expected to decrease as technology advances.
Environmental Impact
The Chetak 3501 offers more than zero tailpipe emissions:
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: Even with India’s current electricity mix, it produces 40% lower lifetime emissions than petrol scooters.
- Noise Pollution: Its quiet operation contributes to a calmer urban environment.
Who Is the Chetak 3501 For?
The Chetak 3501 is ideal for:
- Urban commuters traveling 30-80 km daily.
- Environmentally conscious buyers.
- Tech-savvy users who value connected features.
It may not suit those needing long-range travel or those without access to reliable charging.
Competitors and Alternatives
The Chetak 3501 faces competition from:
- Ather 450X: Sportier performance but higher priced.
- TVS iQube: More affordable but with slightly lower range.
- Ola S1 Pro: Better range but mixed reliability reports.
Compared to petrol alternatives like the Honda Activa, the Chetak 3501 offers long-term savings and environmental benefits.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Chetak 3501 Electric Scooter is a compelling blend of heritage and innovation. While it comes with a premium price tag, its lower operating costs, advanced features, and environmental benefits make it a strong contender in the electric two-wheeler market.
If you’re an urban commuter with access to reliable charging and value sustainability, the Chetak 3501 is worth considering. As India’s transportation landscape shifts toward electric mobility, the Chetak 3501 offers a glimpse into the future – one that’s both eco-friendly and deeply rooted in Indian heritage.
Hi, I’m Ravi Kumar – the founder of snsnn.in and the lead writer for the Automobile category. I’ve always had a deep passion for cars, bikes, and everything that moves on wheels. Through this blog, I share my personal experiences, in-depth research, and honest insights about the latest vehicle launches, reviews, and emerging auto technologies like electric vehicles (EVs).
With years of closely following the auto industry, I aim to provide content that’s not only informative but also trustworthy and easy to understand. I believe in writing articles that help readers make smart and confident decisions when it comes to choosing vehicles or staying updated with automotive trends.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply someone looking for reliable information before your next purchase, I’m here to make the complex world of automobiles simple and engaging for you.
