Bajaj Auto has expanded its electric scooter portfolio further by introducing the most affordable Chetak model, the 2901. This is the base trim and the entry ticket for buyers purchasing an EV from Bajaj. However, another brand that rivals the Chetak 2901 is Ola Electric with the S1X. So, let's compare the two E-scooters on paper.
Design
Even in its base trim, the Bajaj Chetak looks identical to the remaining models. Although it gets fewer colour options, the bodywork and the styling are the same as the Urbane and Premium variants. However, that’s not the case with the Ola S1X. It looks slightly different from the S1 Air and S1 Pro. Both scooters look just as attractive and are offered in vibrant colours.
Features
On the feature front, Bajaj has equipped the Chetak with standard LED illumination, Eco mode, and a digital screen. However, with the Tec Pac, the Chetak 2901 comes with sports riding mode, hill hold, reverse mode, call and music control, and smartphone connectivity. However, it costs Rs. 3,000 over the base price. Ola has offered the S1X with LED illumination, and three ride modes – Eco, Normal, and Sports. Other features like OTA updates, predictive maintenance, cruise control, and reverse mode are also available. The Ola scooter has a better package here.
Motor and Battery
Powering the Chetak 2901 is a 2.8kWh battery with a 123km range and 63kmph top speed. On the other hand, the Ola S1X gets a 2kWh setup that offers an 85kmph top speed and a maximum true range of 84km. But there is another 3kWh battery too which gives the S1X 90kmph top speed and 125km true range. While the Chetak offers lower top speed, it offers almost the same range as the Ola scooter.
Hardware
The Chetak 2901 rides on a front and rear monoshock with a drum brake at both ends. On the other hand, the Ola S1X uses conventional telescopic front forks and dual rear shocks. Similar to the Chetak, it too gets a drum brake setup for both ends.
Price
The asking price for the Chetak 2901 is set at Rs. 95,998 while the Ola S1X costs Rs. 74,999 for the 2kWh battery option and Rs. 84,999 ( all prices are ex-showroom, Bengaluru) for the 3kWh unit. Overall, the Ola S1X seems a better deal on paper. But which of the two is a better product in the real world? Well, that can be found out once we test them together.
