Bajaj Auto has rekindled the iconic Chetak brand, albeit in an electric avatar. The new scooter comes with a sheet metal body panels and a rigid chassis structure. Suspension duties are taken care of by a single-sided tubular single sided suspension and the front wheel gets a disc brake. The powertrain comes equipped with a unique single-sided cast aluminium swing arm, which houses the traction motor driving the wheel through a high-efficiency automated gear box.
In terms of design cues, the new Chetak comes with LED headlight with DRLs, soft-touch activated electronic switches and sequential scrolling LED blinkers. The quality of switchgear is at par and even better than many IC-engine equipped scooters available today in the market. A start/stop button greets the rider instead of a key hole, which is a nice safety touch.
The Chetak offers a fully-connected riding experience by virtue of being embedded with mobility solutions like data communication, security and user authentication that will enable customers to have a seamless ownership and riding experience. The Chetak mobile app gives the rider a comprehensive overview of all aspects of the vehicle and its ride history.
The electric unit powering the new Chetak is an IP67 rated high-tech Lithium Ion battery with NCA cells. The company claims that the battery can easily be charged using a standard household 5-15 amp electrical outlet. The on-board Intelligent Battery Management System (IBMS) controls charge and discharge seamlessly. A home-charging station is available at an additional price. The scooter comes with two drive modes (Eco, Sport) and a reverse assist mode. An intelligent braking module ensures regenerative braking. The set up converts braking heat into kinetic energy to maximise range.
The new Chetak will be rolled out of the Chakan plant of Bajaj, which is claimed to be a dust-free and temperature controlled facility, and will use the best materials and cutting edge robotic technology. The workforce producing this EV will comprise of 80% women.
