Bajaj Chetak EV Deliveries Resume After Rare-Earth Shortage

Bajaj Auto has officially resumed the deliveries of its much-awaited Bajaj Chetak EV, after facing months of delays due to a shortage of rare-earth materials. This marks a significant step for India’s fast-growing electric two-wheeler industry, as the Chetak EV has been one of the most in-demand electric scooters in the market.

The pause in deliveries had caused frustration among customers and slowed down Bajaj’s expansion in the EV space. Now, with supply chains stabilizing and alternative sourcing strategies in place, Bajaj is back on track to cater to the increasing demand for eco-friendly mobility.

What Caused the Delay?

The global shortage of rare-earth materials like lithium, neodymium, and cobalt had disrupted the supply chain for battery packs and electric motors. These materials are critical components for manufacturing EV batteries and motors. With rising demand worldwide and restricted mining operations, availability was limited.

Bajaj Auto, like many global automakers, had to slow down its production temporarily. However, the company has now secured reliable supply channels, ensuring that future production will be less affected by such shortages.

Key Highlights of Bajaj Chetak EV

• Retro-Modern Design: Inspired by the iconic Chetak, but with a futuristic electric twist.
• Range: Around 108 km per charge, making it suitable for daily urban commutes.
• Top Speed: Approx. 70 km/h, ideal for city riding.
• Battery: Lithium-ion battery pack with a life of around 70,000 km.
• Smart Features: Bluetooth connectivity, app-based navigation, and live tracking.

Why Choose Bajaj Chetak EV?

1. Trusted Brand Legacy – Bajaj has been a household name in India’s scooter market for decades, ensuring strong service and reliability.
2. Eco-Friendly Solution – A zero-emission scooter that contributes to reducing air pollution in cities.
3. Smart Technology – App integration allows users to check vehicle status, track location, and monitor battery health.
4. Low Running Cost – Compared to petrol scooters, the Chetak EV provides significant savings on fuel.
5. Resale & Support – Being a Bajaj product, resale value and after-sales support are expected to be strong.

Market Impact

The resumption of Chetak deliveries comes at a crucial time when competition in the EV scooter market is heating up. Rivals like Ola Electric, TVS iQube, and Ather Energy are aggressively expanding their sales and service networks. Bajaj’s move will help it secure a stronger position in this competitive segment.

Additionally, the government’s push through FAME-II subsidies and state-level incentives makes the Chetak EV more affordable, encouraging more customers to switch to electric mobility.

Conclusion

The restart of Bajaj Chetak EV deliveries is good news for both customers and the EV industry in India. With supply chain issues now under control, Bajaj aims to ramp up production and cater to the growing demand for electric two-wheelers. Customers can once again look forward to getting their hands on this stylish, reliable, and eco-friendly scooter.

As India continues its transition to electric mobility, the Bajaj Chetak EV will likely remain a strong contender in the mid-range scooter segment.

FAQs

Q1: Why were Bajaj Chetak EV deliveries delayed?
Deliveries were delayed due to a global shortage of rare-earth materials essential for EV batteries and motors.

Q2: What is the range of Bajaj Chetak EV?
The scooter offers a range of around 108 km per charge, depending on riding conditions.

Q3: What is the price of the Bajaj Chetak EV?
The price starts at around ₹1.15 lakh (ex-showroom, India), varying by city and subsidies.

Q4: How does Bajaj Chetak EV compare to Ola or Ather scooters?
The Chetak focuses on design, reliability, and Bajaj’s strong service network, while Ola and Ather emphasize tech-heavy features and higher range.

Q5: Is the Chetak EV eligible for government subsidies?
Yes, it qualifies for FAME-II subsidies and various state-level incentives, making it more affordable.