2026 Bajaj Chetak: New Affordable Electric Scooter Launching on January 14
Bajaj Auto has officially confirmed the launch of a new variant of the iconic Chetak electric scooter on January 14, 2026. This move marks a strategic shift for the brand as it aims to capture the high-growth, mass-market electric vehicle (EV) segment by offering a more pocket-friendly alternative to its current premium lineup.
Key Specifications and Expected Changes
The upcoming 2026 model is designed to be a “back-to-the-roots” variant, prioritizing affordability without compromising the brand’s reputation for reliability. To keep costs under check, several structural and mechanical changes have been implemented:
- Chassis and Body: Moving away from the signature full-metal body, this model is expected to use lighter reinforced fiber or composite panels to reduce overall weight and production costs.
- Powertrain: The scooter will likely transition from an expensive mid-drive setup to a hub-mounted motor, simplifying the drivetrain.
- Dimensions: Spy shots indicate a slightly smaller footprint compared to the standard Chetak, making it more maneuverable in dense urban traffic.
- Technology: High-end TFT touchscreens will be replaced by a functional LCD digital instrument cluster.
- Estimated Price: The new variant is expected to retail between Rs 80,000 and Rs 90,000 (ex-showroom), making it a direct competitor in the sub-1 lakh segment.
The Competitive Landscape: Rivals for 2026
The 2026 Bajaj Chetak enters a crowded market filled with established players and aggressive startups. Its primary goal is to fend off competition from both budget and performance-oriented electric scooters:
| Brand | Primary Rival Model(s) | Key Competitive Edge |
| TVS | Orbiter & iQube (2.2kWh) | The Orbiter offers a segment-first 14-inch front wheel and a 158 km IDC range. |
| Ola Electric | S1 X & S1 Pro (Gen 3) | Ola leads in software integration and has a massive range of up to 176 km for its higher trims. |
| Ather Energy | 450S & Rizta | Known for superior ride handling and a robust public fast-charging network. |
| Hero Vida | VX2 Range | Offers removable battery technology and a competitive price point starting around Rs 85,000. |
| Simple Energy | Simple One | Boasts a massive claimed range of up to 190 km and high-torque performance. |
| River | Indie | Dubbed the “SUV of scooters,” it offers 43 liters of total storage space and rugged build quality. |
Why This Launch Matters
By stripping back some of the premium “bells and whistles,” Bajaj is targeting the traditional commuter who values low maintenance and brand trust over futuristic tech. The reduction in weight is particularly critical, as it allows for better battery efficiency, potentially pushing the real-world range closer to the 100km mark even with a smaller, more cost-effective battery pack.
FAQs
1. When is the new Bajaj Chetak 2026 model launching? The official launch date is set for January 14, 2026.
2. What is the expected price of the new Chetak variant? It is expected to be priced in the Rs 80,000 to Rs 90,000 range (ex-showroom), positioning it below the current premium models.
3. Will the new Chetak have a metal body? Reports suggest Bajaj will move away from its signature full-metal body in favor of lighter materials like fiber or plastic to reduce costs and weight.
4. What are the main rivals for this budget electric scooter? The primary competitors include the TVS Orbiter, Ola S1 X, Hero Vida VX2, and entry-level variants of the Ather Rizta.
5. What type of motor will the 2026 variant use? To ensure affordability, the new model is expected to use a hub-mounted motor instead of a mid-drive motor.
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