Hey, scooter fans! Big news just dropped: Bajaj Auto has unleashed the Chetak 3503, the most budget-friendly variant in its Chetak 35 Series electric scooter lineup, priced at a super tempting ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi)! Launched on April 28, 2025, this retro-modern ride is here to make electric commuting affordable, practical, and oh-so-cool. I’m stoked to break down everything about the Chetak 3503—its specs, features, and why it’s a game-changer in India’s buzzing EV market. Let’s roll with a human touch and see what this scooter’s all about!
The Big Reveal: Chetak 3503 Hits the Streets!
Bajaj’s Chetak 35 Series, introduced in December 2024, has been a hit, helping the brand claim the title of India’s best-selling electric two-wheeler in March 2025. The series already includes the premium 3501 (₹1.35 lakh) and mid-spec 3502 (₹1.22 lakh), but the 3503 is the star for budget-conscious riders. Priced at ₹1.10 lakh, it’s the cheapest in the 35 Series, undercutting its siblings while keeping the core Chetak charm. Posts on X, like one from @autocarindiamag, confirm it’s “the most affordable variant in the new Chetak 35 lineup” with a 155 km range.
This launch is Bajaj’s move to grab a bigger slice of India’s electric scooter market, where rivals like Ola S1, TVS iQube, and Ather Rizta are duking it out. So, what’s the Chetak 3503 bringing to the table? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Specs & Features: What You Get for ₹1.10 Lakh
The Chetak 3503 is the base model in the 35 Series, but don’t let “base” fool you—it’s packed with enough goodies to make it a solid daily rider. Here’s the rundown:
1. Battery & Range
- Battery: 3.5kWh lithium-ion pack, same as the 3501 and 3502.
- Range: 155 km (claimed, IDC), up slightly from the 153 km of its pricier siblings. Real-world range is likely ~120–130 km, per user buzz on X.
- Charging: Takes 3 hours 25 minutes for 0–80% via a 950W off-board charger. It’s a tad slower than the 3501’s 3-hour charge but matches the 3502.
- Why It’s Cool: That 155 km range is awesome for city commutes and even short out-of-town trips. You’re not tethered to a charger all day!
2. Performance
- Motor: 4kW electric motor, delivering smooth, instant torque.
- Top Speed: 63 kmph, about 10 kmph slower than the 3501 and 3502’s 73 kmph. It’s tuned for efficiency over speed.
- Ride Modes: Eco and Sports modes let you toggle between range and peppy performance.
- Why It’s Cool: The 63 kmph cap keeps things safe and efficient for urban riders, and the motor’s zippy enough to weave through traffic like a pro.
3. Design & Build
- Look: Retains the retro-modern Chetak vibe with a round LED headlamp, sleek apron, and slim LED taillight. It’s nearly identical to the 3501 and 3502, but with black side mirrors and inner apron panels instead of body-colored ones.
- Colors: Four options—Brooklyn Black, Indigo Blue, Matt Grey, and Cyber White.
- Build: IP67-rated seamless steel unibody, built to last in all weather. The 35-liter under-seat storage (biggest in its class) fits two helmets, thanks to the battery’s new floorboard placement.
- Why It’s Cool: It’s tough, stylish, and practical. The storage and longer 80mm seat make it a comfy choice for you and a pillion.
4. Features
- Display: Color LCD console (non-touch, unlike the 3501’s TFT touchscreen). It shows speed, range, and battery status but skips smartphone connectivity and navigation.
- Key: Uses a traditional physical key instead of the remote keyfob on higher variants.
- Other Goodies: LED lighting, hill hold assist, call management, Bluetooth for basic controls, and Combi-Brake System (CBS) for stable braking.
- What’s Missing: No sequential turn indicators, touchscreen, or onboard charger (you’ll need to carry the charger). Also skips navigation and music controls found on the 3501.
- Why It’s Cool: It’s got the essentials for daily riding, and the LCD display keeps things simple yet modern. Bajaj trimmed the right features to hit that ₹1.10 lakh price.
5. Braking & Suspension
- Brakes: Drum brakes on both ends (vs. front disc on 3501/3502). The CBS helps with balanced stopping.
- Wheels: 12-inch pressed steel wheels (not alloys) with tubeless tires.
- Suspension: Single-sided suspension front and rear for a smooth ride.
- Why It’s Cool: The drum brakes are cost-effective and fine for city speeds, though the 3501’s disc brake offers sharper stopping.
Pricing & Availability
The Chetak 3503 is priced at ₹1.10 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi), making it the most affordable in the 35 Series. For comparison:
- Chetak 3502: ₹1.22 lakh.
- Chetak 3501: ₹1.35–1.40 lakh.
- Chetak 2903 (older series): ₹98,498, with a smaller 2.9kWh battery and 123 km range.
On-road prices in cities like Delhi or Mumbai will likely be ₹1.25–1.30 lakh after RTO and insurance. It’s available now at 4,000+ Bajaj sales touchpoints across 507 towns, and you can even buy it on Amazon or Flipkart, per Times of India. Deliveries are underway, so hit up a dealership or check online to snag one
Why the Chetak 3503 Is a Big Deal
At ₹1.10 lakh, the Chetak 3503 is a steal for what it offers. Here’s why it’s turning heads:
- Affordable Entry: It’s only ₹11,502 pricier than the Chetak 2903 but gets a bigger 3.5kWh battery and 155 km range, making it a better value.
- Solid Range: 155 km (claimed) is among the best in its class, rivaling the Ola S1 X+ (151 km) and TVS iQube 3.4 (145 km).
- Practical Design: The 35L boot, IP67 rating, and metal body make it a tough, everyday companion.
- Bajaj’s Momentum: Bajaj sold 260,000 Chetaks in FY2025, per @autocarpro, and the 3503 strengthens their lead over Ola and TVS.
But it’s not perfect. The 63 kmph top speed might feel slow for highway riders, and the lack of a touchscreen or disc brake could disappoint tech-savvy buyers. Customer reviews on BikeWale also flag Bajaj’s after-sales service as spotty, with issues like slow battery replacements. If service is a dealbreaker, check out rivals like Ather for better support.
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
The Chetak 3503 goes head-to-head with India’s top electric scooters in the ₹1–1.5 lakh segment. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Ola S1 X+ (₹1.10 lakh): 151 km range, 90 kmph top speed, but plastic body and mixed service reviews. Faster but less durable than the Chetak.
- TVS iQube 3.4 (₹1.17 lakh): 145 km range, 78 kmph top speed, disc brake option. More premium features but pricier.
- Ather Rizta S (₹1.10 lakh): 123 km range, 80 kmph top speed, touchscreen display. Better tech but shorter range.
- Hero Vida Z (est. ₹1.00 lakh, launching May 2025): Details TBD, but likely a budget rival with ~100 km range.
The Chetak 3503 wins on range and build quality, but its slower speed and basic features make it less flashy than the TVS or Ather. RushLane notes it’s a direct rival to the Ola S1 X+ and TVS iQube for pricing.
Should You Buy the Chetak 3503?
The Bajaj Chetak 3503 is a fantastic pick if you want an affordable, reliable electric scooter with great range and a sturdy build. It’s perfect for:
- City Commuters: The 155 km range and 35L storage make it ideal for daily rides and errands.
- Budget Buyers: At ₹1.10 lakh, it’s a value champ with premium touches like LED lights and a metal body.
- Retro Fans: Its classic Chetak styling is a head-turner, as BikeDekho praises its “instantly recognizable” look.
Hold off if you need:
- High Speed: The 63 kmph cap isn’t great for highways—consider the 3501 or TVS iQube.
- Tech Overload: No touchscreen or navigation? The 3501 or Ather Rizta might suit you better.
- Top-Notch Service: Bajaj’s after-sales has drawn flak, so check local dealer reviews.
Final Thoughts: A Budget EV That Packs a Punch!
The Bajaj Chetak 3503 at ₹1.10 lakh is a stellar addition to India’s electric scooter scene. With a 155 km range, 35L boot, and that iconic Chetak style, it’s a practical, stylish choice for urban riders on a budget. Bajaj’s nailed the affordability factor without skimping on the essentials, making the 3503 a serious contender against Ola, TVS, and Ather. Sure, it’s not the fastest or flashiest, but for daily commutes and wallet-friendly EV vibes, it’s tough to beat.
So, what’s the verdict? Hyped to grab a Chetak 3503, or eyeing the 3501 for extra features? Maybe you’re curious about rivals? Drop your thoughts—I’m all ears! 🛵⚡️