Bajaj Auto has launched the Chetak 35 series in India. It sits on a new platform and is the most loaded Chetak model so far. It has been launched in three variants- 3501, 3502 and 3503. So far, Bajaj has only announced the price of the top-spec Chetak 3501 (Rs 1.27 lakh) and the mid-spec 3502 which will set you back by Rs 1.20 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom.

This is an all-new scooter, featuring a new frame, battery, motor and controller. The styling looks like an evolution of the old Bajaj Chetak, save for the sleeker turn indicators, blacked out headlight surround and slimmer LED tail light. Bajaj has also extended the wheelbase and that has led to a roomier floorbard area and an 80mm longer seat.

The Chetak 35 series gets a host of new features. The Chetak 3501, being the top spec, gets a new touchscreen TFT that gets smartphone connectivity, music control, integrated maps, geo fencing and more. These features will allow the Chetak to take on other, feature-rich electric scooters in the market.

The new frame accommodates the new, 3.5kW battery in the floorboard area. Bajaj claims the battery offers a range of 153km on a full charge. Using the new, 950W on board quick charger, it takes three hours to charge it from 0-80 percent. By moving the battery to the floorboard area, Bajaj has managed to liberate 35-litres of boot space. The lack of decent boot space, in relation to the competition, was one of the peeves that the old Chetak was plagued with.

The scooter is powered by a new 4kW permanent magnet motor that can propel the scooter to a top speed of 73kmph. On the hardware front, the Chetak 35 series electric scooter gets the same monoshock setup at both ends with a front disc and rear drum brake.

The Chetak 3502 is the mid-spec scooter and hence has a 5-inch, non-touchscreen TFT display, open storage cavity instead of a closed glove box and an off-board charger. The 3503, meanwhile, is the base variant and gets drum brakes at both ends. The price of the Chetak 3503 will be announced later.