Bajaj New Electric Chetak Is Coming – If you’ve been waiting to switch to an electric scooter but found the prices a bit too high, Bajaj might have exactly what you need. Mark your calendars for January 14, 2026, because Bajaj is about to pull the wraps off a brand-new version of the Chetak.
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This isn’t just a small update; it’s a strategic shift. After selling nearly 2.7 lakh scooters in 2025, Bajaj realized that to really win the market, they need something that fits the budget of a regular Indian family. This upcoming model is expected to be the most affordable Chetak yet.
So, What’s Actually New on This Chetak Scooter?
The teaser shows one clear change: the rear end. The current Chetak has those vertical, stacked tail lights. The new model does away with that for a single, sleek horizontal LED light bar that stretches across the back. It’s a cleaner, simpler look. The turn signals are at each end, and the ‘Chetak’ name is proudly placed above it.
Now, I’ve seen the spy shots from a few months back, and they tell us more. The overall shape is still the friendly, rounded Chetak we know. But the headlight is a simple oval LED, the seat is a long, flat bench, and the display looks like a basic LCD screen, not the fancy TFT one. They’re clearly keeping things simple.
The Real Change is Under the Skin
Here’s where the cost-saving happens, and it’s smart. Right now, Chetak scooters use what’s called a ‘mid-mounted’ motor, placed under the seat. The new scooter is expected to switch to a hub-mounted motor.
Let me break that down in plain English. A hub motor is built right into the rear wheel. This means Bajaj can remove a bunch of parts—like the chain or belt drive system. Fewer parts mean a lower cost to build, and that saving gets passed on to you. It’s a very practical move for a scooter meant for daily city rides.
They’ll pair this with simple telescopic forks at the front, twin shocks at the back, and brakes that are likely a front disc and a rear drum. It’ll roll on 12-inch wheels. Nothing too fancy, just what works.
Comparing the Bajaj New Electric Chetak vs. Existing Range
| Feature | Premium Chetak (35 Series) | Upcoming 2026 Chetak |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Type | Mid-Mounted (PMSM) | Hub-Mounted (BLDC) |
| Display | 5-inch TFT / Touchscreen | Digital LCD Cluster |
| Body Material | All-Metal | Metal (with Fibre Accents) |
| Starting Price | ₹1.15 Lakh+ | Expected < ₹90,000 |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock | Twin Shock Absorbers |
Why This Launch is a “Game Changer” for 2026
For years, the Bajaj Chetak was viewed as the “Vespa of EVs“—beautiful and sturdy, but priced out of reach for many middle-class commuters. By targeting a price point under ₹90,000 (ex-showroom), Bajaj is removing the biggest barrier to entry.
The “Metal Body” Advantage: Unlike most budget rivals that rely heavily on plastic panels to save costs, Bajaj is expected to stick with its signature metal body. In a market where “sturdiness” is a key psychological factor for Indian buyers, a metal-bodied scooter at a plastic-bodied price could be a knockout punch for the competition.
Why This Launch Matters for You
For a long time, the Bajaj Chetak EV was seen as a “premium” choice. By launching this new version, Bajaj is targeting the first-time EV buyer. Whether you are a student, a daily commuter, or someone looking for a second vehicle for the home, this model aims to offer the prestige of the Chetak brand at a price that doesn’t hurt the wallet.
| Features | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | January 14, 2026 |
| Estimated Price | Around ₹85,000 – ₹95,000 |
| Best For | City commuting and daily errands |
| Key Strength | Strong metal body and trusted brand name |
My Expert Take: Is it Worth the Wait?
In my opinion, this is the smartest move Bajaj has made in years. While other companies are busy adding “smart features” like music and apps, Bajaj is focusing on durability and price.
If you want a fancy gadget on wheels, this might not be it. But if you want a sturdy, reliable electric scooter from a brand that has been around for decades, this Bajaj New Electric Chetak is definitely worth waiting a few more days for.
What do you think? Would you prefer a metal-bodied scooter with fewer features, or a plastic one with a big touchscreen?
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Sources :- Bajaj Chetak & Gaadiwaadi.com
