The Indian two-wheeler market is buzzing again with the news that Bajaj Auto has resumed production of its popular electric scooter, the Bajaj Chetak, after a brief pause. The production halt was caused by the shortage of rare earth magnets, a crucial component in electric vehicles (EVs). With supply chain issues resolved, Bajaj is once again rolling out its premium electric scooter, much to the relief of customers and dealers.
This development not only ensures continuity for Bajaj Auto but also strengthens the brand’s presence in the competitive EV scooter segment. Let’s take a closer look at what this means for buyers, the scooter’s features, and Bajaj’s long-term EV strategy.
Why Did Bajaj Pause Production?
The production of the Bajaj Chetak was temporarily halted due to the shortage of rare earth magnets, which are essential for EV motors. These magnets are primarily sourced from limited global suppliers, and any disruption in the supply chain directly impacts production schedules.
As demand for EVs increases worldwide, the availability of such critical components has become a challenge for manufacturers. Bajaj Auto faced the brunt of this issue, but thanks to quick action and efficient supply chain management, the company managed to restart production in a short period.
Chetak: The Revival of a Legend
The Bajaj Chetak has always been an iconic name in Indian households. Its revival as an electric scooter marked Bajaj Auto’s entry into the EV space. The new-generation Chetak combines retro design with modern technology, making it a stylish and sustainable option for urban commuting.
Its steel body, circular LED headlamp, premium paint finish, and intuitive digital console appeal to both nostalgia-driven buyers and new-age EV enthusiasts.
Key Features of Bajaj Chetak
The Chetak isn’t just about looks—it offers modern features that cater to today’s riders:
- Retro-Modern Design – Classic scooter styling with a premium finish.
- Electric Powertrain – 4 kW motor with smooth acceleration and performance suitable for city rides.
- Range – Around 90–108 km on a single charge (depending on riding mode).
- Battery – IP67-rated lithium-ion battery with fast charging support.
- Ride Modes – Eco and Sport modes for efficiency and performance.
- Connected Tech – Smartphone integration, navigation assistance, and over-the-air updates.
- Build Quality – All-metal body for durability, unlike many fiber-based EVs.
Market Impact of Production Resumption
The production pause had created concerns among customers and dealers, leading to delivery delays. With production now resumed, Bajaj Auto can fulfill pending orders and expand supply to new cities.
This step is crucial as Bajaj competes with Ola Electric, TVS iQube, and Ather Energy, all of whom are aggressively growing their EV market share. By resuming production, Bajaj ensures that it remains a strong player in India’s fast-growing electric mobility segment.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Bajaj Chetak is positioned as a premium electric scooter, with prices starting at around ₹1.2 lakh to ₹1.5 lakh (ex-showroom) depending on the variant. While it is priced higher than some competitors, its build quality, reliability, and brand trust justify the cost for many buyers.
Additionally, the scooter’s low running cost and government subsidies under FAME II make it an attractive long-term investment for urban commuters.
Bajaj’s EV Strategy for the Future
Bajaj Auto has ambitious plans in the EV space. With the success of the Chetak, the company is exploring new variants and expanding its production capacity. The Chetak EV manufacturing facility in Pune is expected to scale up significantly to meet the growing demand.
Bajaj also aims to expand its Chetak dealership network across India, ensuring easier availability and service support. Furthermore, with advancements in EV battery technology and increasing charging infrastructure, Bajaj is positioning itself to be a leader in the sustainable mobility sector.
Customer Sentiment
Despite the temporary production pause, customer interest in the Bajaj Chetak remains high. Many buyers appreciate the scooter’s blend of style, durability, and modern features. The production resumption has restored confidence among customers, as it reassures them of timely deliveries and long-term brand commitment.
Conclusion
The resumption of Bajaj Chetak production is a positive development for both the company and EV enthusiasts in India. It highlights Bajaj Auto’s resilience in tackling supply chain challenges and its strong commitment to sustainable mobility.
With its stylish design, durable build, advanced features, and reliable performance, the Bajaj Chetak stands out as one of the most premium and practical electric scooters in India. Now that production is back on track, customers can once again look forward to owning this modern electric icon without delays.
