Overview
Performance And Motor
The C2501 uses a hub-mounted BLDC motor that gives 1.8 kW of continuous power and 2.2 kW at its peak. This setup offers quick acceleration for city traffic, reaching up to 50 kph in Sport mode. It manages slopes well, with a gradability of about 10-12 degrees and a responsive throttle. While it’s not built for high speeds, reviews mention its smooth, jerk-free power delivery, helped by its light 108 kg weight.
The C2501 uses a direct-hub motor drive system with a single-speed automatic transmission, a common setup in electric scooters. This means there are no gears, so acceleration is smooth and instant from a stop. The automatic setup also means less maintenance and makes it easy to ride in busy Indian city traffic.
The Chetak C2501 has a top speed of 55 km/h, which is electronically limited for safety and efficiency in city use. In real-world tests, it easily maintains 50-55 km/h in Sport mode. Sometimes the display shows up to 62-63 km/h in perfect conditions, but the scooter prioritises range over speed.
Range
Bajaj claims an IDC-certified ARAI range of 113 km per charge for the 2.5 kWh battery under standard test conditions. This figure accounts for controlled urban cycles, making it competitive for daily commutes in Indian metros.
In everyday city use, most riders get about 90-95 km per charge. This can drop to 80-90 km if you accelerate hard, carry extra weight, or use Eco mode. Traffic and carrying a passenger also affect the range. Still, reviews confirm that 90 km is realistic for most Indian city commutes.
Charging Time
Charging from 0 to 80% takes 2 hours and 25 minutes with the standard 750W charger, making it easy to top up overnight at home. A full charge from 0 to 100% takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes, so you can recharge quickly using regular sockets found in most Indian homes.
Features And Technology
The Bajaj Chetak C2501 is an affordable option in the Series 25 electric scooter lineup. It focuses on practical features for Indian city riders, such as fast charging and a robust build.
- Battery: 2.5 kWh lithium-ion battery Powers the scooter for reliable daily commutes, supporting quick top-ups suitable for home charging in India.
- Range: Up to 113 km (claimed) IDC-certified for urban cycles, ideal for city errands without frequent recharges.
- Charging Time: 0-80% in 2 hours 25 minutes Uses a standard 750W off-board charger, enabling fast daily usage with common Indian sockets.
- Top Speed: 55 km/h Electronically governed for safe city riding, reaching comfortably in Sport mode.
- Ride Modes: Eco and Sports Eco optimises range for efficiency, while Sports boosts acceleration for traffic navigation.
- Hill Hold: Assists on inclines common in Indian cities, preventing rollback during starts.
- Reverse Mode: Simplifies tight parking in congested urban spaces
- Braking: Front disc and rear drum Ensures reliable stopping power with a balanced setup for wet and dry Indian roads.
- Wheelbase: 1225 mm Compact dimensions enhance manoeuvrability in traffic-heavy areas.
- Seat Height: 763 mm Low stance suits a wide range of Indian riders, including shorter individuals.
- Boot Space: 25L Ample under-seat storage for helmets, bags, or daily essentials
- All-Metal Body: Full metal construction Delivers premium durability, scratch resistance, and a robust feel for longevity in Indian conditions.
- Display: Vibrant full-colour LCD console Shows speed, battery status, and navigation at a glance for intuitive use.
- Tail Light: Ice cube design Enhances nighttime visibility with a modern, futuristic look.
- Handlebar Controls: Manage calls and music Allows hands-free call handling and music control to minimise distractions.
- Design:Neo-classical styling with decals – Timeless Chetak aesthetics updated for bold, expressive urban appeal.
- Warranty:5 years or 70,000 km (whichever comes first) – Comprehensive coverage for peace of mind in India’s varied usage patterns.
- TecPac Compatibility: Music play/pause, guide-me-home lights Optional upgrade adds smartphone-linked features for enhanced convenience.
Build Quality
The C2501 keeps Chetak’s well-known all-metal body, which is more durable, safer, and more scratch-resistant than the plastic used in many budget EVs. Reviewers like its solid build and quality finish, with no parts that feel cheap, even though it’s priced as an entry-level model. There are some small gaps near the handlebar plastics, but overall, the finish is impressive for this segment. Its 108 kg weight shows smart design that keeps it light but strong, which is great for tough Indian roads and weather.
Handling
With a compact 1225 mm wheelbase, slim tyres, and 170 mm ground clearance, the C2501 handles easily. It feels light, making it great for moving through heavy Indian traffic. It stays stable even at higher speeds. The new frame, telescopic front forks, and twin rear shocks help absorb bumps, though the front can hit hard on sharp potholes. The tyres grip well on different surfaces. Testers say it feels stable and easy to overtake, which helps new EV riders feel confident in city traffic.
Comfort
The 763 mm seat height is low enough for shorter riders, which is common in India. The seat is well-cushioned, with plenty of knee room and a flat floorboard for comfort on long rides. The rear suspension handles potholes well, and the riding position is upright and relaxed. The front suspension is a bit soft, but overall, the ride is among the best in its class and not as stiff as some rivals. Fold-out footpegs are practical, and the seat is comfortable enough for a passenger
Styling
The C2501 has a neo-classical look with modern touches, such as unique decals and a compact shape that stand out in the city. Highlights include a stylish ice-cube tail light for better visibility, a bright full-colour LCD display, and an all-metal body that keeps the classic Chetak feel with improved bodywork. The new single-piece grab rail, horseshoe-shaped LED headlamp with DRL, and updated handlebar indicators give it a fun, youthful style that makes it different from bigger models.
Colour Options And Variants
The C2501 comes in six eye-catching colours, each with modern graphics that give it a unique personality.
- Ocean Teal
- Racing Red
- Active Black
- Opalescent Silver
- Classic White
- Misty Yellow
Racing Red combines bold graphics with a shiny finish, while lighter colours like Ocean Teal and Opalescent Silver look more subtle, though their graphics are less noticeable. Misty Yellow and Classic White are brighter choices that stand out. These colour options suit different tastes, offering both vibrant and understated styles for Indian buyers.
The C2501 is sold in India as a single base model with a 2.5 kWh battery and no sub-variants. You can add the optional TecPac for extras like a higher top speed (55 km/h instead of 45 km/h), music controls, and guide-me-home lights. Compared to higher Series 25 models like the 3001 (3.0 kWh, 127 km range, Bluetooth) and the 3501/3502/3503 (3.5 kWh, up to 153 km, full app features, sequential blinkers), the C2501 has a shorter 1225 mm wheelbase, drum/disc brakes, and no standard app connectivity.
Value For Money And Pricing
The Chetak C2501 starts at ₹ 91,430 ex-showroom in Delhi. Bajaj also offers a scooter exchange program for upgrades, with quick estimates and dealer checks. The 5-year/70,000 km warranty adds to its appeal for buyers.
The C2501 stands out with its strong metal body, 25L storage, fast 2.25-hour charging to 80%, and a real-world range of 90-95 km. This makes it a good value for short city trips compared to petrol scooters. The optional TecPac adds features such as music controls and higher speeds without significantly increasing the price. Reviewers say it’s a smart choice for first-time EV buyers who want practicality, a solid build, and low running costs (about ₹0.15/km). While it doesn’t have app connectivity like more expensive models, it keeps key features like hill hold and reverse, making it a good budget pick for families or students.
The C2501 undercuts rivals like
- TVS iQube
- Vida VX2 Go
- Ather Rizta S
It offers a bigger 2.5 kWh battery and a metal body at a lower starting price. The C2501 beats the iQube and VX2 in range and battery size and matches them in charging speed, though the Rizta has a bigger battery. The TVS Orbiter, its main rival, has fewer features for a similar price. For buyers looking for value, the C2501 is more durable than plastic-bodied competitors without costing more.
The Bajaj Chetak C2501 stands out as an entry-level electric scooter with a strong metal build and useful features. Reviews praise its value for city use in India, offering good durability with only a few minor drawbacks.
