The electric two-wheeler market in India continues to evolve rapidly, with manufacturers constantly pushing boundaries to offer better products.
Bajaj Auto, one of India’s leading automotive manufacturers, has recently launched the Chetak 3201 Special Edition, an upgraded version of their popular electric scooter.
This premium offering comes with enhanced features, impressive range, and a distinctive design that sets it apart in the increasingly competitive electric scooter segment. Let’s dive deep into what makes this new model special and whether it deserves your attention.
A Closer Look at the Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition
The Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition represents the evolution of the iconic Chetak brand into the electric era. Positioned above the Chetak Urbane variant, this special edition model comes with several upgrades and a premium finish that appeals to style-conscious riders who don’t want to compromise on performance.
The most striking aspect of the Chetak 3201 Special Edition is its Brooklyn Black paint scheme, which is complemented by distinctive graphics.
The light grey Chetak decal on both sides of the body panel, along with a light grey stripe and three dots (with the center dot in blue), gives it a unique identity. The embossed chrome Chetak logo on both sides adds a touch of elegance to the overall design.
One of the standout features is the dual-tone, quilted single-piece seat that not only enhances comfort but also adds to the premium feel of the scooter. The grey and blue rim stickers further accentuate its sporty character while maintaining the classic Chetak DNA.
Power and Performance Specifications
The Chetak 3201 Special Edition isn’t just about looks-it packs impressive performance credentials as well. The e-scooter is equipped with a 4kW (continuous) brushless DC motor that’s powered by a 3.2kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
This combination allows the scooter to achieve a claimed top speed of 73kmph, making it suitable for both city commutes and short highway stretches.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the improved range. The Chetak 3201 delivers an ARAI-certified range of 136km, which is 10km more than the range-topping Premium variant.
This enhanced range addresses one of the primary concerns of electric scooter buyers-range anxiety. The battery takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes to charge from 0 to 100 percent, which is reasonable for overnight charging.
Tech Features and Connectivity
The standard Chetak 3201 features a 5-inch monochrome TFT console with limited smartphone connectivity features and a single riding mode (Eco). However, riders looking for more advanced features can opt for the TecPac variant, which offers significant upgrades.
The TecPac variant comes with a 5-inch color TFT instrument console and two riding modes: Eco and Sport. It also includes practical features like reverse mode and hill-hold assist, which can be particularly useful in urban settings with inclines and tight parking spaces.
Connectivity is where the TecPac variant truly shines. It provides comprehensive connectivity features including:
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- OTA (Over-The-Air) updates
- Vehicle health information
- Tamper alerts
- Music controls
- Call alerts
- Customizable themes
The scooter features an all-LED lighting setup, enhancing both visibility and energy efficiency.
Pricing and Market Positioning
The Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition is available at an introductory price of Rs 1.28 lakh (ex-showroom Bengaluru), including the EMPS (Electric Mobility Promotional Scheme) 2024 Subsidy.
This special pricing is expected to increase to Rs 1.40 lakh (ex-showroom) after the introductory period ends.
What makes this launch unique is the distribution strategy. The e-scooter is exclusively available on Amazon India’s e-commerce site throughout August 2024, with deliveries expected by the first week of September 2024. It’s anticipated to be available offline later in September 2024.
The TecPac, which adds the advanced features mentioned earlier, is available for an additional Rs 5,000 and includes free data connectivity for an entire year with every new Chetak 3201 purchase.
Competitive Landscape
The Chetak 3201 Special Edition enters a competitive segment where it faces rivals like the Ather Rizta Z (2.9kWh), Ola S1 Pro, TVS iQube S, Ampere Nexus ST, and the Vida V1 Pro. Here’s how the Chetak 3201 stacks up against its competitors in terms of pricing:
| Electric Scooter Model | Price Range (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition | Rs 1.28 lakh – Rs 1.40 lakh |
| Ather Rizta Z (2.9kWh) | Rs 1.25 lakh – Rs 1.45 lakh |
| Ola S1 Pro | Rs 1.30 lakh – Rs 1.50 lakh |
| TVS iQube S | Rs 1.23 lakh – Rs 1.43 lakh |
| Ampere Nexus ST | Rs 1.10 lakh – Rs 1.30 lakh |
| Vida V1 Pro | Rs 1.35 lakh – Rs 1.46 lakh |
Design and Build Quality
One aspect where the Chetak 3201 distinguishes itself is in its build quality. Unlike many plastic-bodied electric scooters in the market, the Chetak 3201 features a metal body, harking back to the durability and solidity of the original Chetak scooters that were beloved across India.
The scooter’s design elements pay homage to the classic Chetak while incorporating modern touches. The single-sided linked suspension at the front, similar to Vespa scooters, gives it a distinctive look while providing comfortable ride quality.
In terms of dimensions, the Bajaj Chetak has a ground clearance of 160mm and a seat height of 760mm, making it accessible for riders of various heights. It has a kerb weight of 134kg, which is on the heavier side for electric scooters but contributes to its stable ride quality.
Practical Features for Daily Use
The Chetak 3201 comes with several practical features that enhance its daily usability. The onboard charger eliminates the need to carry a separate charging brick, while the IP67 water resistance rating ensures the scooter can handle various weather conditions without issues.
The fob key adds convenience and security, while features like auto-hazard lights and self-cancelling blinkers enhance safety on the road. The disc brake at the front and drum brake at the rear provide adequate stopping power for city riding conditions.
Is the Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition Worth Considering?
The Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition makes a compelling case for itself with its blend of classic design, modern features, and improved performance metrics.
The increased range of 136km addresses one of the key concerns for electric scooter buyers, while the premium build quality and features justify its positioning in the higher end of the market.
For urban commuters looking for a stylish, well-built electric scooter with decent range and features, the Chetak 3201 Special Edition deserves serious consideration.
The exclusive availability on Amazon during the launch period also makes it easier for tech-savvy buyers to purchase without visiting a showroom.
However, potential buyers should consider factors like charging infrastructure in their area, their daily commute distance, and whether the additional features of the TecPac variant align with their needs before making a decision.
Conclusion
The Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition represents a significant step forward in Bajaj’s electric mobility journey. By combining the nostalgic appeal of the Chetak brand with modern electric technology and premium features, Bajaj has created a product that stands out in the crowded electric scooter market.
With its metal body, distinctive design, improved range, and comprehensive feature set (especially with the TecPac), the Chetak 3201 Special Edition offers a balanced package for riders looking to transition to electric mobility without compromising on style or functionality.
While it’s priced at the premium end of the spectrum, the quality and features it offers make it a worthy contender in the evolving electric two-wheeler landscape in India.
FAQs About the Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition
1. What is the range of the Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition?
The Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition offers an ARAI-certified range of 136km on a single charge, which is 10km more than the Premium variant.
2. How long does it take to charge the Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition?
The scooter takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes to charge from 0 to 100 percent. You can also achieve 80% charge in about 3 hours and 5 minutes.
3. What additional features does the TecPac offer for the Chetak 3201?
The TecPac adds a color TFT display, Sport riding mode, reverse mode, hill-hold assist, turn-by-turn navigation, music controls, call alerts, and customizable themes for an additional Rs 5,000.
4. Is the Bajaj Chetak 3201 Special Edition available in showrooms?
Initially, the Chetak 3201 Special Edition is exclusively available on Amazon India throughout August 2024, with deliveries expected by the first week of September. It’s anticipated to be available in offline showrooms later in September 2024.
5. How does the Chetak 3201 Special Edition differ from the regular Chetak models?
The Chetak 3201 Special Edition features a distinctive Brooklyn Black paint scheme with special graphics, a dual-tone quilted seat, improved range (136km vs 127km for the Premium variant), and exclusive availability through Amazon during the launch period.
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