Bajaj Auto has officially expanded its electric scooter portfolio with the launch of the Chetak C25, an entry-level variant priced at ₹91,399 (ex-showroom). Positioned below the existing Urbane and Premium tiers, the C25 creates a new entry point for the brand, targeting the sub-₹1 lakh segment currently dominated by the Ola S1 X and TVS iQube 2.2 kWh.
While the C25 retains the Chetak’s signature metal unibody, a distinct USP in a market saturated with plastic panels, it introduces significant powertrain changes to achieve its aggressive price point.
Powertrain and Performance: Optimized for the City
The most significant technical shift in the C25 is the move to a 2.5 kWh battery pack. This smaller unit delivers an ARAI-certified range of 113 km, which Bajaj claims is sufficient for most urban commuting needs.
- Top Speed: Capped at 55 km/h, limiting its utility strictly to city limits.
- Charging: The scooter charges from 0-80% in 2 hours 25 minutes.
- Motor: Research indicates the C25 utilizes a hub-mounted motor (rated at 1.8 kW continuous/2.2 kW peak), a departure from the mid-drive geared motor found on more expensive Chetak variants. This change significantly reduces manufacturing costs and mechanical complexity.
Design and Chassis
Despite the cost-cutting on the powertrain, Bajaj has maintained the steel unibody construction, keeping the scooter’s structural rigidity intact. The C25 is available in six colours and features “street art” inspired graphics to differentiate it from the more conservative higher-end models.
- Weight: The C25 has a kerb weight of 108 kg, making it lighter and easier to maneuver than its predecessors.
- Storage: It offers a 25-litre under-seat boot, capable of storing a full-face helmet or weekly groceries.
Features and Equipment
The C25 avoids stripping away all premium features. It retains essential rider aids including:
- Hill Hold Assist
- Reverse Mode
- Front Disc Brake (standard, which is notable for this price segment)
- Display: A simpler reverse LCD display replaces the colour TFT found on the Premium variants, offering Bluetooth connectivity for call alerts and music control.
Market Analysis: The Sub-1 Lakh Battle
The Chetak C25 enters a fiercely competitive space. At ₹91,399, it undercuts the TVS iQube 2.2 kWh (approx. ₹94,999) and rivals the Ola S1 X+ but there are other competi.
| Spec | Bajaj Chetak C25 | TVS Orbiter | Vida VX2 Go (2.2 kWh) | TVS iQube (2.2 kWh) | Ola S1 X (3 kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | ₹91,399 | ₹1,04,900 | ₹74,000 | ₹94,999 | ₹80,499 |
| Range (Claimed) | 113 km (IDC) | 158 km (IDC) | 92 km (IDC) | 94 km (IDC) | 151 km (IDC) |
| Top Speed | 55 km/h | 68 km/h | 70 km/h | 75 km/h | 90 km/h |
| Bodywork | Metal & Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic | Plastic |
