Most Affordable Bajaj Chetak - Now Launched
Bajaj Auto has introduced the Chetak 3503 at a price of ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most affordable variant in the Chetak electric scooter line-up to date. Priced nearly ₹20,000 below the Chetak 3501, the 3503 is now available across dealerships in India. Bookings have commenced, and deliveries are expected to begin shortly.
Focus on Urban Commuting Needs
The Chetak 3503 is aimed at buyers seeking a practical, reliable, and cost-effective electric scooter for daily urban travel. It is equipped with the same 3.5kWh lithium-ion battery as its more expensive siblings, offering a claimed range of 155 kilometres on a single charge. The battery placement under the floorboard helps maintain balance and enables a generous 35 litres of under-seat storage—enough to fit a full-face helmet and other essentials.
Performance and Charging
The scooter’s top speed is limited to 63 kmph, which is in line with typical city usage. While this is lower than the other variants in the Chetak 35 series, it caters well to short-distance riders and first-time EV users. The Chetak 3503 can be charged via a standard 5A household socket, with a 0 to 80% charging time of approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. This level of convenience is expected to appeal to urban users, especially those without access to dedicated EV charging infrastructure.
Feature Set and Cost Optimisation
To bring the price down, Bajaj has made a few strategic feature adjustments. The Chetak 3503 features a colour LCD instrument cluster with basic Bluetooth connectivity, replacing the more advanced touchscreen unit available in higher trims.
Sequential turn indicators have been replaced with standard ones, and the front braking setup uses a drum instead of a disc. Despite these changes, key features such as dual riding modes (Eco and Sport), hill-hold assist, and the all-metal body construction have been retained.
Design and Colour Options
The scooter maintains the familiar design language of the Chetak series. Buyers can choose from four colour options—Indigo Blue, Brooklyn Black, Cyber White, and Matt Grey—allowing for a degree of personalisation within the entry-level offering.
User Sentiment and Ownership Experience
Feedback from existing Chetak owners suggests that the scooter’s simple interface, silent performance, and dependable construction have resonated with users. The standard 5A socket charging is especially appreciated by those living in apartments or rented homes. Bajaj’s expansive service network is another advantage, addressing a common concern among new EV adopters about post-purchase support and maintenance.
Competitive Landscape
The Chetak 3503 enters a highly competitive electric scooter segment, facing off against rivals such as the Ather Rizta S, Ola S1 X+, and TVS iQube 3.4. While some alternatives may offer additional features or marginally better performance, Bajaj’s approach focuses on essential functionality, brand trust, and a strong after-sales network.
Expanding Access to Electric Mobility
With the Chetak 3503, Bajaj aims to bring electric mobility to a wider audience by offering a balanced mix of affordability and essential features. It preserves the core Chetak DNA while eliminating non-critical components to meet price expectations. For buyers looking for a no-frills, dependable electric scooter from a reputed manufacturer, the 3503 presents a compelling choice.