In a landmark achievement, Bajaj Auto’s iconic Chetak has reclaimed its legacy in a modern avatar, securing the title of India’s best-selling electric scooter in the fourth quarter of FY25. With over 45,000 units sold between January and March 2025, the Chetak outsold rivals like Ola Electric, Ather Energy, and TVS iQube, marking a pivotal moment in India’s electric vehicle (EV) revolution.
Sales Surge Driven by Strategic Innovation
Bajaj’s Q4 triumph reflects a 62% quarter-on-quarter growth, catapulting the Chetak to a 28% market share in the electric two-wheeler segment. This surge is attributed to several strategic moves:
- Expanded Network: Aggressive dealership expansion, doubling its EV-specific outlets to 400+ across 200 cities, ensuring wider accessibility.
- Tech Upgrades: Introduction of a 4kWh LFP battery offering a 150 km range, coupled with faster charging (0–80% in 50 minutes), addressed key consumer concerns around range anxiety.
- Competitive Pricing: Post-FAME II subsidy, the Chetak’s entry variant retails at ₹1.15 lakh, undercutting rivals while retaining premium features like a digital dashboard, hill-hold assist, and app connectivity.
Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, remarked, “The Chetak’s success underscores our commitment to blending heritage with cutting-edge innovation. We’re not just building scooters; we’re shaping sustainable mobility for India’s future.”
Market Tailwinds and Consumer Shift
The Indian EV market, projected to grow at a 35% CAGR, saw record Q4 sales of 160,000 e-scooters, fueled by rising fuel prices and government incentives. The FAME II scheme’s extended subsidies and state-level tax waivers further accelerated adoption.
Rakesh Sharma, Executive Director of Bajaj Auto, highlighted, “Urban millennials and eco-conscious families are driving demand. Over 40% of Chetak buyers are first-time EV users, drawn by its reliability and Bajaj’s trusted aftersales network.”
Outpacing the Competition
While Ola S1 Pro and Ather 450X dominated early adopters, Chetak’s Q4 rally disrupted the hierarchy. Analysts note Bajaj’s focus on build quality and safety—a contrast to competitors’ occasional software glitches—resonated with buyers. TVS iQube, though robust, lagged due to supply chain bottlenecks.
Road Ahead: Sustaining the Charge
Bajaj aims to cement its lead with plans to:
- Launch an affordable ₹99,000 variant targeting tier-2/3 cities.
- Install 5,000 fast-charging stations by FY26-end.
- Explore swappable battery partnerships to enhance convenience.
However, challenges loom, including component shortages and aggressive pricing from new entrants like Hero Vida and Revolt.
Conclusion
The Chetak’s resurgence symbolizes a broader shift toward sustainable mobility in India. By marrying affordability, technology, and trust, Bajaj has not only revived a classic brand but also ignited a new phase of EV adoption. As the industry races toward an electric future, Chetak’s Q4 victory is a testament to strategic agility in a fast-evolving market.