Bajaj Chetak 2901 VS TVS iQube 2.2kWh: Image Comparison

Which affordable electric scooter should you go for?

Bajaj Auto has recently launched the cheapest variant of the Chetak electric scooter, called the Chetak 2901. This new variant goes up against the TVS iQube 2.2kWh variant, which is also the most affordable TVS iQube. Here’s how they compare.

Design

When it comes to design both scooters represent completely different design languages. The TVS iQube appears to be a bit more modern and commuter-like with its boxy design. The metallic badging on the side panel feels quite modern and premium.

The Chetak 2901 on the other hand features a design which can be described as neo-retro. The round headlight and angular bodyworks on the apron feels like a modernised version of the old school retro scooter design language. The sculpted side panel also adds into this look.

Which scooter looks better is subjective, if you’re someone who prefers a commuter design then the iQube will be a good choice. But if you want your scooter to have a bit of retro appeal then the Bajaj Chetak makes more sense. 

Performance, Powertrain And Range

The new Chetak variant comes with a 2.88kWh battery pack and is linked to a brushless DC motor which offers a top speed of 63kmph. The scooter has an ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) claimed range of 123km. The battery pack takes 6 hours to charge from 0-100%.

The TVS iQube on the other hand is powered by a 2.2kWh battery pack which is linked to a 3kW hub mounted motor. The motor is able to produce a peak power output of 4.4kW and offers a claimed top speed of 75kmph. The battery pack offers the scooter a certified range of 78km. It takes 2 hours to charge the battery from 0-80%.

Which scooter to go for depends on what you are looking for, the iQube has the advantage in terms of speed while the Chetak brings more range to the table. 

Underpinnings

When it comes to the underpinnings, both the scooters are quite different. The Bajaj Chetak comes with a single-sided link-type front suspension and a single shock absorber at the rear. Braking duties are handled by drum brakes at both ends. 

(TVS iQube S image used for representation)

The TVS iQube gets a telescopic fork and twin shock absorbers at the rear. Braking duties are taken care of by a 220mm disc at the front and a 130mm drum at the rear. So in terms of underpinnings, the TVS iQube does have a slight edge.

Features

The TVS iQube comes with a 5-inch TFT console which offers smartphone connectivity and related features such as turn-by-turn navigation and call/SMS alerts. The console also shows readouts like distance-to-empty. One of the interesting things here is, TVS has added in a lot of different security features to the scooter as well, including geo-fencing, anti-theft alerts, vehicle crash and tow alerts, and live location status just to name a few. 

The Bajaj Chetak 2901 on the other hand, comes with a colour LCD instrument console which displays regular readouts like speed, time, battery levels and trip and odometer readouts. With the TecPac, which is an optional addition that comes at a price of Rs 3,000 more, customers can get an extra riding mode called Sports and also a reverse mode. Additionally, the TecPac brings Bluetooth connectivity for call alerts, music control, hill hold assist, and Follow Me Home lights. 

In terms of features, the iQube is the clear winner as it has a lot more to offer. 

Which scooter should you get?

The TVS iQube 2.2kWh variant comes at an introductory ex-showroom Bengaluru price of Rs 94,999 (including cashback and Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS) subsidy). The introductory price is valid till June 30, 2024, after which the scooter’s price will go up to Rs 1,07,299 (ex-showroom Bengaluru, including EMPS).

Chetak 2901 comes at an ex-showroom price of Rs 95,998 (including EMPS) and this variant is set to hit dealerships from June 15th, 2024.

Choosing between the two comes down to either going for a modern looking commuter electric scooter which has lesser range but more features to offer or a simpler neo-retro style e-scooter which offers better range and a simpler set of features.