In a country where the Bajaj Chetak name once symbolized trust and reliability, the revival of this iconic brand in an electric avatar is both nostalgic and forward-looking. The launch of the Bajaj Chetak 3503 in April 2025 marks a significant step toward accessible electric mobility in India. Priced affordably and equipped with essential modern features, the Chetak 3503 is designed to appeal to the masses while staying true to its legacy.
Bajaj Chetak 3503: Overview
The Chetak 3503 is the latest and most budget-friendly offering in Bajaj’s 35 Series electric scooter lineup. It is targeted toward price-sensitive buyers who want to switch to EVs without compromising on reliability and style.
Quick Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | April 2025 |
| Ex-showroom Price | ₹1,09,500 |
| Battery Capacity | 3.5 kWh lithium-ion |
| Certified Range | 151 km |
| Top Speed | 63 km/h |
| Charging Time (80%) | 3 hours 25 minutes |
| Brakes | Drum (Front and Rear) |
| Riding Modes | Eco and Sport |
| Storage | 35-litre underseat space |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes |
| Colors Available | Brooklyn Black, Indigo Blue, Matt Grey, Cyber White |
Strategic Pricing and Market Entry
Bajaj has smartly priced the Chetak 3503 at ₹1,09,500, significantly undercutting its siblings—the Chetak 3502 (₹1,22,497) and Chetak 3501 (₹1,34,052). This pricing strategy makes it highly attractive to middle-class buyers who have long been hesitant about switching to EVs due to higher upfront costs.
This competitive price, combined with various government subsidies and EV incentives, positions the Chetak 3503 as an excellent entry point into the world of electric mobility.
Design: A Nod to the Past with a Modern Twist
The Chetak 3503 manages to retain the timeless elegance of the original Chetak while embracing a contemporary design language.
- Metal Body: Unlike many rivals that use plastic parts, Bajaj has retained a full-metal body, lending durability and a premium feel.
- LED Lighting: Modern LED headlamps offer clear visibility with low power consumption.
- Color Options: Four elegant colors—Brooklyn Black, Indigo Blue, Matt Grey, and Cyber White—add a layer of personalization.
The overall silhouette, flowing panels, and detailing reflect the classic charm that made the original Chetak a household name.
Performance and Range
The Chetak 3503 features a 3.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, the same unit found in the higher-tier variants, but with a limited top speed of 63 km/h. This speed restriction helps enhance the overall range, making it ideal for urban commuters.
Key Performance Metrics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 63 km/h |
| Torque | 20 Nm |
| Certified Range | 151 km |
| Riding Modes | Eco, Sport |
Its responsive electric motor and instant torque ensure a smooth ride in city traffic. Most daily users, who travel 30–40 km, can go several days without recharging.
Charging and Convenience
Charging the Chetak 3503 is hassle-free. It reaches 80% charge in just 3 hours and 25 minutes, making it easy to top up either during office hours or overnight at home.
Feature Set: Cost-Efficient, Yet Sufficient
To keep costs low, Bajaj has made certain feature cuts but retained essential and user-friendly functions.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Chetak 3503 | Chetak 3502/3501 |
|---|---|---|
| Braking System | Drum (F/R) | Disc (Front) + Drum |
| Instrument Cluster | Color LCD | Touchscreen TFT |
| Turn Indicators | Standard | Sequential LED |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Underseat Storage | 35 litres | 35 litres |
| Reverse Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Hill-Hold Assist | Yes | Yes |
| IP Rating | IP67 | IP67 |
While features like a touchscreen display and disc brakes are missing, the Chetak 3503 still offers Bluetooth, reverse mode, and hill-hold assist, making it practical for everyday use.
Ride Quality and Ergonomics
Built for Indian road conditions, the Chetak 3503 features a telescopic front fork and monoshock rear suspension, providing a balanced ride even on uneven surfaces.
- Weight Distribution: Despite being heavier (~130 kg) due to the metal body and battery, the scooter feels stable.
- 12-inch Wheels: Provide good ground clearance and help tackle potholes or speed bumps.
- Comfortable Seat: A longer 80mm seat provides comfort for both rider and pillion.
The upright riding position and ample legroom make it suitable for short commutes as well as longer city rides.
Ownership and After-Sales Support
Bajaj understands the concerns of new EV adopters and offers:
- Warranty: 3 years or 50,000 km (whichever is earlier), with optional extensions.
- Nationwide Service Network: Bajaj’s vast dealership network ensures service accessibility even in tier-2 and tier-3 towns.
- Mobile App: A dedicated smartphone app allows users to monitor battery status, book service, track ride stats, and receive maintenance reminders.
These features collectively aim to simplify the ownership experience and reduce anxiety about EV maintenance and reliability.
Running Costs and Long-Term Benefits
One of the key advantages of the Chetak 3503 is its low running cost. Electricity expenses are almost one-third of petrol costs, and the EV requires fewer mechanical services due to the absence of complex engine components.
Over time, owners can expect significant savings on fuel and maintenance.
Market Competition
The Chetak 3503 will compete with rivals like the TVS iQube, Ather 450S, and Ola S1X. However, its metal body, heritage branding, and affordable pricing offer a unique value proposition.
In March 2025, Bajaj emerged as India’s leading electric two-wheeler brand, selling nearly 29,000 units, a testament to its growing popularity and trust among consumers.
Environmental and Social Contribution
Apart from economic benefits, the Chetak 3503 helps reduce:
- Air Pollution: By replacing petrol scooters, it cuts down harmful emissions.
- Noise Pollution: Its silent motor enhances the urban living environment.
- Social Equity: Its affordable pricing ensures that the transition to green mobility is not limited to the affluent.
The scooter thus plays a key role in promoting sustainable and inclusive mobility in India.
Future Outlook
The launch of the Chetak 3503 is part of Bajaj’s broader strategy to make electric mobility accessible to all. As battery technologies evolve and production scales up, future variants may offer even better performance at reduced costs.
With its flexible platform architecture, Bajaj is also poised to introduce additional models tailored to different needs, further expanding its footprint in the EV segment.
Common Queries
Q1: What is the price of the Bajaj Chetak 3503?
A: The ex-showroom price is ₹1,09,500.
Q2: What is the range of the Chetak 3503 on a full charge?
A: It offers a certified range of 151 km.
Q3: How long does it take to charge the Chetak 3503 to 80%?
A: Charging to 80% takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes.
Q4: Does the Chetak 3503 support Bluetooth connectivity?
A: Yes, it supports smartphone connectivity for calls, notifications, and more.
Final Notes: A Modern Classic
The Bajaj Chetak 3503 is not just another electric scooter, it’s a tribute to a legacy, reimagined for the future. With its balanced blend of nostalgia, functionality, and affordability, it represents an ideal choice for Indian consumers seeking dependable, eco-friendly urban transport.
As EV adoption grows in India, the Chetak 3503 is likely to be a cornerstone of this transformation, bridging the gap between generations and leading the charge toward a cleaner, quieter tomorrow.
Katherine Johnson is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.