Quick Highlights:
- Bajaj Auto wants Chetak to become a global EV scooter leader, not just an India-focused brand.
- Exports already underway to select international markets.
- Higher localisation to strengthen domestic manufacturing and cost efficiency.
- Chetak C25 targets younger buyers while retaining brand legacy.
Bajaj Auto’s Global Vision for Chetak
Bajaj Auto is no longer thinking small when it comes to its electric scooter ambitions. At the launch of the new Chetak C25, the company made it clear that the iconic scooter brand is entering its next phase of growth, one that goes well beyond Indian roads. According to Rishab Bajaj, General Manager – EVs and Two- and Three-Wheelers, Chetak has already achieved mass recognition and is now aiming for outright leadership in the electric two-wheeler space.
In his words, “The plan is to get to number one and a clear number one. It may not necessarily be even in India; it could even be in exports.” This statement alone signals a major shift in how Bajaj sees the future of its EV business.
Export Push Gains Momentum
Bajaj Auto has confirmed that Chetak electric scooters are already being exported to select international markets, though the company is keeping specific destinations under wraps for now. The strategy appears pragmatic rather than rushed. Bajaj is closely tracking policy changes, EV incentives, and demand trends across global markets before scaling further.
From my perspective, this cautious approach makes sense. Electric mobility policies can change quickly, and Bajaj seems keen to expand only where long-term volume potential exists. With global EV penetration rising, especially in emerging markets, Chetak could find strong acceptance outside India as well.
Localisation Remains a Core Focus
While exports are gaining attention, Bajaj Auto is simultaneously strengthening its domestic base. The company is increasing localisation levels for the Chetak range, aiming to reduce dependency on imports and improve supply-chain resilience. This move is likely to help Bajaj manage costs better and protect margins as competition in the EV segment intensifies.
In my view, localisation will also be a key advantage when competing with startups that still rely heavily on imported components.
India’s Electric Two-Wheeler Market Context
India’s EV market continues to grow steadily. In 2025, total EV sales reached 2.3 million units, accounting for 8 percent of new vehicle registrations. Electric two-wheelers led the charge with 1.28 million units sold, followed by electric three-wheelers at around 0.8 million units.
Within this space, competition is intense. TVS Motor Company led electric two-wheeler sales with 3 lakh units, while Bajaj Auto followed closely at 2.7 lakh units. Ather Energy and Ola Electric each sold roughly 2 lakh units. These numbers highlight why Bajaj is now thinking bigger and broader.
Chetak C25: A Strategic Addition
The newly launched Chetak C25 plays a crucial role in this expansion story. Eric Vas, President – Urbanite Business at Bajaj Auto, explained that the model is designed to appeal to a younger, more agile use case, without diluting the trust and reliability the Chetak name stands for.
Personally, I see this as Bajaj balancing heritage with modern expectations, something many legacy brands struggle to execute well.
What This Means for Bajaj Auto
By combining exports, localisation, and portfolio expansion, Bajaj Auto is positioning Chetak as more than just another electric scooter. The brand is being shaped into a global EV contender, capable of competing across markets with very different consumer needs. If executed well, this strategy could redefine Bajaj’s standing in the global electric two-wheeler ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Q. Is Bajaj Auto exporting the Chetak electric scooter?
- Yes, Bajaj Auto has confirmed that Chetak is already being supplied to select international markets, with more opportunities under evaluation.
Q. Which countries will receive the Chetak electric scooter?
- Bajaj has not disclosed specific countries yet, stating that expansion will depend on policy frameworks and market demand.
Q. What is the goal behind increasing localisation for Chetak?
- Higher localisation helps reduce costs, improve supply-chain stability, and boost self-reliance within India.
Q. What is special about the Chetak C25?
- The Chetak C25 is aimed at younger buyers, offering a more agile riding experience while maintaining the brand’s traditional trust and build quality.
Q. Can Chetak become a global electric scooter brand?
- With rising global EV adoption and Bajaj’s manufacturing scale, Chetak has the potential to emerge as a strong international electric scooter brand if expansion is executed strategically.
