Electric scooters are the gaining popularity in the Indian market due to be their eco-friendly nature and to be low running costs. Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor Company, two leading two-wheeler manufacturers in India, have entered the electric scooter segment with their offerings – the Bajaj Chetak and the TVS iQube S, respectively. Making the retro a bit more modernistic for 2024, Bajaj launched the updated Chetak with a brand new TFT console and a bunch of new features. This addition has made the Chetak a better rival to the lovely electric commuter, the TVS iQube S. While the previous Chetak maintained the retro charm with a round LCD console with very basic readouts, the new rectangular 5-inch TFT unit makes things a lot more convenient for daily use. The console has a really clean layout with all the information that you would need right in front of you.
While the Chetak received these updates in 2024, the TVS iQube S has been flaunting these features since 2022. It gets a bigger 7-inch full-colour TFT console and looks slightly cooler. Just like the Chetak, the iQube S too gets Bluetooth connectivity, music control, turn-by-turn navigation, and call/notification alerts. Despite its simple design language, the iQube S is feature-packed enough with a reverse mode. Sadly, though, while the Chetak gets a key fob for keyless start and stop, iQube S needs the services of a conventional key to unlock and start.
Design and Build Quality
- Bajaj Chetak: The Bajaj Chetak features a retro-inspired design with a sleek and elegant look. It is available in a range of attractive colors and comes with premium finishes.
- TVS iQube S: The TVS iQube S, on the other hand, sports a more modern and futuristic design. It features sharp lines and contemporary styling cues, making it stand out on the road.
Performance
- Bajaj Chetak: The Bajaj Chetak is powered by a 3.8 kW electric motor that delivers a top speed of 78 km/h. It offers a range of up to 95 kilometers on a single charge.
- TVS iQube S: The TVS iQube S is equipped with a 4.4 kW electric motor that provides a top speed of 78 km/h. It offers a range of up to 75 kilometers on a single charge.
Battery and Charging
- Bajaj Chetak: The Bajaj Chetak comes with a 3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It can be charged using a standard household outlet and takes about 5 hours for a full charge.
- TVS iQube S: The TVS iQube S is equipped with a 2.25 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It also supports fast charging and can be charged up to 80% in just 1.5 hours.
Feature
- Bajaj Chetak: The Bajaj Chetak comes with a range of features including a fully digital instrument cluster, keyless ignition, and LED lighting.
- TVS iQube S: The TVS iQube S offers features such as a digital instrument cluster, LED lighting, and smartphone connectivity with the TVS SmartXonnect app.
Ride and Handling
- Bajaj Chetak: The Bajaj Chetak offers a comfortable ride thanks to its well-tuned suspension setup. It also comes with a strong braking system for added safety.
- TVS iQube S: The TVS iQube S offers a nimble and agile ride, making it ideal for city commutes. It comes with telescopic front forks and a hydraulic shock absorber at the rear for a smooth ride.
Price and Availability
- Bajaj Chetak: The Bajaj Chetak is priced at around Rs. 1.5 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in select cities in India.
- TVS iQube S: The TVS iQube S is priced at around Rs. 1.1 lakh (ex-showroom) and is available in select cities as well.
Conclusion
The new Chetak, with all of its updates, is a much more wholesome package over the previous model. And it costs Rs 1,44,463 (ex-showroom) with the TECPAC package. On the other hand, the TVS iQube S costs Rs 1,40,025 (ex-showroom including subsidies).
Sure, both are no-nonsense, feature-packed, electric scooters. However, if you want something that looks stylish and is more solid, then the Chetak is the perfect candidate. Both the Bajaj Chetak and the TVS iQube S are impressive electric scooters that offer a blend of performance, features, and style. Your choice between the two will depend on your preferences regarding design, range, and price. If you prefer a retro-inspired design and a longer range, the Bajaj Chetak could be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a modern design and faster charging times, the TVS iQube S could be the better option for you.