Bajaj Chetak C2501 vs Rivals: Is It the Best Budget Electric Scooter?
Bajaj Auto has expanded its electric scooter portfolio with the launch of the all-new Chetak C2501, positioned as the most affordable entry point into the Chetak brand. Priced aggressively, it now goes up against established budget electric scooters from Ather, TVS and Vida. Here’s a closer look at how the Chetak C2501 compares with its key rivals on price, range and charging times for Indian buyers.
Bajaj Chetak C2501 vs Rivals: Key Comparison
| Scooter | Price (ex-showroom) | Battery capacity | Claimed range (IDC) | Charging time (0–80%) | Charging time (0–100%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bajaj Chetak C2501 | Rs 91,399 | 2.5kWh | 113km | 2hr 25min | 3hr 45min |
| Ather Rizta S | Rs 1.15 lakh | 2.9kWh | 123km | 6hr 30min | 8hr 30min |
| Vida VX2 Go | Rs 85,000 | 2.2kWh | 94km | 2hr 41min | 3hr 53min |
| TVS iQube (2.2kWh) | Rs 1.03 lakh | 2.2kWh | 94km | 2hr 45min | NA |
Bajaj Chetak C2501: Overview
The Chetak C2501 is a ground-up electric scooter that sits apart from the larger 3001 and 35 Series models. While it retains the familiar metal-bodied Chetak design language, it is more compact and simpler in execution. The 2.5kWh NMC battery delivers a claimed IDC range of 113km, placing it ahead of several rivals in this price band.
One of the Chetak C2501’s biggest strengths is charging performance. With a 750W charger, it reaches 80 percent in just over two hours and completes a full charge in under four hours. This makes it particularly appealing for urban users who rely on frequent top-ups rather than overnight charging.
Ather Rizta S: Overview
The Ather Rizta S sits at the premium end of this comparison. It comes with a larger 2.9kWh battery, which translates into the best claimed range here at 123km. This makes it suitable for buyers who prioritise range over outright cost.
However, the trade-off is charging time. The Rizta S takes significantly longer to charge than its rivals, especially for a 0–80 percent top-up. Combined with its higher price tag, it positions itself more as a family-focused electric scooter than a strict budget option.
Vida VX2 Go: Overview
The Vida VX2 Go is the most affordable electric scooter in this group. Its smaller 2.2kWh battery delivers a claimed range of 94km, which is adequate for daily city commuting. Charging times are competitive, staying close to the Chetak despite using a lower-rated charger.
Vida’s Battery-as-a-Service option further reduces the upfront cost, making the VX2 Go attractive for buyers with a tight budget. However, its lower range means it may not suit users with longer daily runs.
TVS iQube (2.2kWh): Overview
The TVS iQube brings strong brand trust and a proven electric platform to the table. Like the Vida VX2 Go, it uses a 2.2kWh battery with a claimed range of 94km. Charging times are reasonable, although TVS does not officially disclose a full 0–100 percent charging figure.
Despite its smaller battery, the iQube is priced higher than the Chetak C2501, which slightly weakens its value proposition for price-conscious buyers.
Verdict: Is the Bajaj Chetak C2501 the Best Budget Electric Scooter?
The Bajaj Chetak C2501 strikes a strong balance between price, usable range and fast charging. It offers more range than the VX2 Go and iQube while remaining significantly more affordable than the Ather Rizta S. Its quick charging times further strengthen its case for everyday urban commuting.
For buyers focused purely on the lowest upfront cost, the Vida VX2 Go still makes sense. Those who want maximum range and are willing to pay more can look at the Ather Rizta S. However, for most Indian buyers seeking an all-round budget electric scooter under Rs 1 lakh, the Chetak C2501 emerges as the most well-rounded option.
