Bajaj has expanded its Chetak electric scooter portfolio with the launch of the new C2501 model, priced at Rs 91,399 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru). The C2501 is now the entry point to the Chetak line-up, with a much more affordable price, lower range and top speed, while also being much lighter and more approachable.
- 2.5kWh battery, claimed 113km range, 0-100% charge in 3hr45min
- Has a claimed 55kph top speed; hub motor makes 2.2kW (peak)
- Comes with a 3-year / 50,000km warranty, 25L underseat storage
C2501 is the entry point to the Bajaj Chetak line-up
C2501 is much smaller and lighter than existing Chetak models
Powering the Chetak C2501 is a floorboard-mounted 2.5kWh battery, which is rated for a claimed range of 113km. A 750W offboard charger tops up a flat battery to full in 3hr45min(claimed). This battery powers a hub-mounted motor – a first for a Chetak – which is rated for 1.8kW (continuous) and 2.2kW (peak). These low output numbers mean that the C2501 only has a 55kph claimed top speed, placing it in similar territory to the Honda QC1.
The C2501 also differs from its bigger siblings in the chassis, design and features departments. It is suspended on a telescopic fork/twin-shock absorber (F/R) setup, unlike the leading link/monoshock (F/R) seen on the other models. However, like its more expensive stablemates, the C2501 also comes with a front disc brake.
While the C2501’s design is unmistakably Chetak, it looks much more svelte in comparison to other Chetak models on sale. With a low 763mm seat height and a rather light 108kg kerb weight, the C2501 is one of the lightest mainstream electric scooters on sale today.
Bajaj has also played around with the design, and the C2501 has a new round LED headlight, flanked by the front turn indicators, and an upswept rear panel with a new single tail-lamp, which also houses the rear indicators. The mirrors are black plastic here, whereas on the more expensive models, they are finished in the same colour as the scooter. Some nice touches continue, however, in the flush-fitting pillion footpegs and a handy parking brake lock clasp. The C2501 is offered in six colours: green, white, black, grey, red and yellow.
In terms of features, the C2501 is fairly well equipped, with a reverse LCD screen that supports Bluetooth connectivity for call alerts and music playback control. You also have hill-hold assist, 2 riding modes (Eco and Sport), a reverse function, a USB charger, a cubby to hold small knick-knacks on the front apron and a 25-litre underseat storage area.
Bajaj Chetak C2501 price
At Rs 91,399 (ex-showroom, Bengaluru), the Chetak C2501 is one of the most affordable electric two-wheelers on sale in India from a reputed manufacturer. The two direct rivals to it would be the TVS iQube 2.2 (Rs 1.03 lakh) and the Vida VX2 Go (Rs 94,740).
Ved Janve
Ketan Thakkar
