Electric scooter enthusiasts are buzzing as Bajaj Chetak launch date January 14, new Chetak EV 2026, affordable electric scooter India, Bajaj Chetak price under 1 lakh, and TVS Orbiter rival surge in trending searches, with Bajaj Auto officially confirming a fresh, budget-friendly Chetak electric scooter variant hitting the market on January 14, 2026.
Bajaj Auto has sent out “Block Your Date” invites teasing the upcoming model’s rear profile, captioned “Get Ready to Vibe,” building massive anticipation just days into the new year.
This isn’t a complete overhaul but a smartly positioned entry-level addition to the iconic Chetak lineup, aimed at making premium retro styling accessible to more buyers.
The new Chetak variant retains the beloved neo-retro design that echoes the classic scooter heritage, complete with rounded lines and chrome accents. Key updates include a sleek horizontal single-piece LED taillight cluster replacing the current split setup, with integrated indicators and prominent Chetak branding above it.
Spy shots from late 2025 reveal a slightly more compact body for better urban maneuverability, a flat seat, and repositioned front indicators on the handlebar cowl.
Under the skin, expect cost-effective changes like a hub-mounted electric motor instead of the mid-mounted unit in premium models, paired with telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. It rolls on 12-inch alloy wheels, with a front disc brake and rear drum for reliable stopping power.
The instrument cluster shifts to a simpler rectangular LCD screen, ditching the round TFT displays of higher trims.
Battery options are likely to mirror the existing lineup—3kWh for around 127km range and 3.5kWh pushing up to 153km—though the hub motor and lighter materials (possibly fiber panels over full metal) could optimize efficiency further. Top speed should hover around 63-70km/h, ideal for city commutes.
Pricing is the big hook: Sources peg this variant at Rs 80,000-90,000 (ex-showroom), significantly undercutting the current Chetak’s starting point of Rs 99,990. This positions it as a direct rival to the TVS Orbiter, base Vida VX2, and other sub-1 lakh EVs, offering trusted brand reliability without the premium tag.
Bajaj’s move comes after a strong 2025, where Chetak sales crossed 270,000 units, grabbing 21% market share in India’s booming EV two-wheeler segment. The company boasts 390 exclusive Chetak stores and over 4,000 sales points nationwide, ensuring wide availability and service support—a key edge over newer startups.
Industry watchers praise the strategy. “Bajaj is democratizing the Chetak experience, blending nostalgia with everyday affordability,” said one analyst from ZigWheels. “This could mirror TVS’s iQube-Orbiter playbook, capturing volume in the mass-market EV space.”
Social media is ablaze with excitement. Enthusiasts on forums like Team-BHP and X are sharing teasers, with comments like “Finally, a Chetak I can afford without compromises!” and “Hub motor for lower maintenance—smart move, Bajaj.” Early riders speculate on improved real-world range in traffic-heavy conditions.
For U.S. readers eyeing global EV trends, this launch highlights how mature markets like India are driving affordable electrification. While Chetak isn’t sold stateside, similar budget EVs could influence American brands pushing urban mobility solutions amid rising fuel costs and emissions regs. It ties into broader lifestyle shifts toward sustainable commuting, potentially inspiring cheaper imports or local assemblies down the line. Economically, Bajaj’s expansion boosts jobs in manufacturing and retail, with ripple effects on tech innovation in batteries and motors.
Safety features remain solid, including hill hold, reverse mode, and app connectivity on select trims. The retro charm paired with modern EV perks makes it appealing for daily riders seeking style on a budget.
Dealerships are gearing up, with test rides expected soon after launch. Colors and exact variants will be revealed on January 14, but early indications point to vibrant options matching the current palette.
This affordable Chetak could redefine entry-level EVs, challenging competitors on value while leveraging Bajaj’s legacy network.
As searches for Bajaj Chetak launch date January 14, new Chetak EV 2026, affordable electric scooter India, Bajaj Chetak price under 1 lakh, and TVS Orbiter rival continue to climb, the January 14 reveal promises to kickstart a competitive year in electric mobility.
By Sam Michael
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